Senior Production Engineer - Remote First

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first culture

Flexible remote work

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Production Engineer for a fully remote role within advanced manufacturing. You will lead optimization efforts across production processes, ensuring efficiency, quality, and cost improvements while coordinating with cross-functional teams from different locations.

The role requires 7+ years in production engineering, strong lean, SPC, and Six Sigma expertise, plus CAD familiarity. A Master's degree is advantageous, and a remote-friendly environment is offered.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in a manufacturing or production engineering role focusing on process optimization.
• Experience implementing lean manufacturing and Six Sigma projects.
• Proficient in SPC and data-driven problem solving.
• Strong remote collaboration and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize production processes to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
• Lead root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and QA to ensure smooth product transitions.
• Develop and maintain production documentation and SOPs.
• Mentor junior engineers and production staff in a remote setting.
• Monitor KPIs and drive continuous improvement.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

SPC

Six Sigma

Data analysis

Project leadership

Remote collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Industrial/Manufacturing Engineering

Master's degree (advantage)

Tools

AutoCAD

SolidWorks

CAD simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in advanced manufacturing solutions, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Production Engineer to join their dynamic and forward-thinking team. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge projects from the comfort of your home office, as this role is entirely remote. You will be instrumental in driving operational excellence, optimizing production processes, and ensuring the highest standards of quality and efficiency across our client's manufacturing operations. We are looking for an individual who thrives in a remote-first environment, possesses exceptional problem-solving abilities, and is passionate about shaping the future of manufacturing. Your expertise will directly impact the successful delivery of complex projects and the continuous improvement of our client's production lines. This position demands a proactive approach and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams across different geographical locations. The ideal candidate will bring a wealth of experience in production methodologies and a commitment to innovation, working closely with design and quality assurance departments to achieve ambitious production targets. You will be a key player in maintaining and enhancing the sophisticated production systems that define our client's market leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize existing manufacturing processes to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality.
• Develop and implement new production strategies and technologies to meet evolving business needs and market demands.
• Lead root cause analysis for production issues and implement effective corrective and preventative actions.
• Collaborate closely with R&D, engineering, and quality assurance teams to ensure seamless product development and manufacturing transitions.
• Develop and maintain detailed production documentation, including SOPs, work instructions, and process flow charts.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for production and report on progress, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety regulations and environmental standards in the production environment.
• Manage and mentor junior engineers and production staff, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development within a remote setting.
• Participate in the design and validation of new manufacturing equipment and production lines.
• Contribute to strategic planning for future manufacturing capabilities and capacity expansion.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in a manufacturing or production engineering role, with a strong emphasis on process optimization and lean manufacturing principles.
• Proven track record of successfully implementing process improvements that have resulted in measurable gains in efficiency, cost reduction, or quality improvement.
• Proficiency in statistical process control (SPC), Six Sigma methodologies, and other quality improvement tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and develop data-driven solutions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with diverse teams in a remote environment.
• Experience with CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks) and simulation tools is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects and manage timelines effectively.
• Familiarity with various manufacturing technologies and automation solutions.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision in a remote setting.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive compensation package, including a generous salary commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits plan. As a remote-first organization, we provide the flexibility and autonomy to work from your preferred location, supported by the necessary tools and technology. You will have opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a growing company that values innovation and employee well-being. Join a team that is shaping the future of manufacturing and make a significant impact. We also offer a stimulating work environment, access to cutting-edge technologies, and a collaborative culture that encourages knowledge sharing and professional growth.