Senior Process Optimization Engineer

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid & retirement contributions

Training & development

Generous leave

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg seeks a Senior Process Optimization Engineer to drive efficiency, reduce waste, and boost productivity. You will lead lean manufacturing initiatives, use data-driven insights, and collaborate across production, quality, and management.

The role emphasizes hands-on shop floor analysis with strategic planning, mentoring junior engineers, and ensuring safety and environmental compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial or Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Master's degree is a plus.
• 5–7 years in industrial engineering, process improvement, or operations in manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Analyze manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance quality.
• Lead lean and Six Sigma initiatives and other CI methodologies.
• Design and optimize layouts to maximize throughput and minimize waste.
• Use data analytics to monitor performance and predict issues.
• Collaborate with production to troubleshoot and implement corrective actions.
• Develop SOPs, process documents, and training materials.
• Evaluate new technologies, equipment, and software for operations.
• Manage timelines, budgets, and resources for improvement projects.
• Mentor junior engineers and guide cross‑functional teams.
• Ensure compliance with safety and environmental regs.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Data analysis

Project management

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's in Industrial/Mechanical Eng

Master's degree (advantage)

Tools

Minitab

Excel

Simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading industrial manufacturing firm, is seeking a highly analytical and experienced Senior Process Optimization Engineer to join their dynamic team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is pivotal in driving efficiency improvements, reducing waste, and enhancing overall productivity across various production lines. The successful candidate will play a key role in implementing lean manufacturing principles and leveraging data-driven insights to solve complex operational challenges. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated engineer to make a significant impact within a reputable organization and contribute to its continuous improvement culture. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, quality control, and management, to identify bottlenecks and develop innovative solutions that align with strategic business objectives. The hybrid nature of this role allows for a balance between focused in-office strategic planning and hands‑on shop floor analysis.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive analyses of existing manufacturing processes to identify areas for improvement in efficiency, cost reduction, and quality enhancement.
• Develop and implement strategic initiatives focused on lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Design and optimize workflow, assembly, and production layouts to maximize throughput and minimize waste.
• Utilize data analytics and statistical tools to monitor process performance, identify trends, and predict potential issues.
• Collaborate with production teams to troubleshoot operational problems and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and training materials.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies, equipment, and software to enhance operational capabilities.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for process improvement initiatives.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance to cross-functional teams.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety and environmental regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of proven experience in industrial engineering, process improvement, or operations management within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding and practical application of lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt certification preferred).
• Proficiency in data analysis software (e.g., Minitab, Excel) and simulation tools.
• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making skills.
• Strong project management abilities, with a track record of successfully delivering complex projects.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Familiarity with production scheduling and supply chain management is advantageous.
• Knowledge of quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001) is desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package of R .
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and further training, including certifications.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Exposure to cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and processes.
• Potential for career advancement within a growing organization.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility and work-life balance.