Senior Remote Industrial Engineer

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

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Remote Industrial Engineer to join its global operations team. This is a fully remote role, working from anywhere in South Africa, with a focus on optimizing manufacturing processes and supply chains across geographically dispersed sites.

You will lead complex projects using simulation software, lean methods, and data analysis to identify and implement improvements.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or related field.
• 8+ years of progressive industrial engineering experience focusing on process optimization, lean manufacturing, and supply chain management.
• Proven experience leading complex projects with distributed or remote teams.
• Expertise in simulation software (Arena, AnyLogic) and advanced data analysis tools.
• Six Sigma Black Belt preferred; strong remote communication and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multiple industrial engineering projects concurrently with remote collaboration.
• Analyze manufacturing processes, supply chain operations, and logistics to identify efficiency gains and cost reductions.
• Design and implement process improvements, automation strategies, and workflow optimizations.
• Utilize simulation, modeling, and data analysis to evaluate solutions and predict outcomes.
• Document SOPs, best practices, and technical guidelines for global implementation.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams across regions and time zones; mentor junior engineers.
• Establish and monitor KPIs to measure impact and drive accountability.
• Ensure solutions align with company standards, safety regulations, and sustainability goals.
• Present findings and progress to stakeholders via virtual meetings.

Skills

Simulation software

Remote collaboration

Data analysis

Project management

Lean manufacturing

Supply chain management

Six Sigma Black Belt

Education

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

Arena

AnyLogic

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced Senior Remote Industrial Engineer to join their global operations team. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to work from anywhere within South Africa. The role involves leading and executing complex industrial engineering projects focused on optimizing manufacturing processes, improving supply chain efficiency, and driving operational excellence across geographically dispersed sites. You will leverage advanced analytical tools, simulation software, and lean methodologies to identify and implement impactful improvements. We are looking for a self‑motivated, results‑oriented individual with a strong track record in industrial engineering leadership and a proven ability to manage projects remotely. This position offers significant autonomy and the opportunity to shape innovative solutions without the constraints of a traditional office environment. You will collaborate extensively with international teams, requiring excellent virtual communication and collaboration skills. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker, an adept problem‑solver, and passionate about driving continuous improvement on a global scale. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned professional to excel in a remote‑first setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multiple industrial engineering projects concurrently, from initiation to completion, with a focus on remote collaboration.
• Analyze existing manufacturing processes, supply chain operations, and logistical networks to identify opportunities for efficiency gains and cost reductions.
• Design, develop, and implement innovative process improvements, automation strategies, and workflow optimizations.
• Utilize advanced simulation, modeling, and data analysis techniques to evaluate potential solutions and predict outcomes.
• Develop and document standard operating procedures (SOPs), best practices, and technical guidelines for global implementation.
• Collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams, including operations, quality, IT, and management, located across different regions and time zones.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior engineers and local operational teams, often through virtual means.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of implemented changes and drive accountability.
• Ensure all engineering solutions align with company standards, safety regulations, and sustainability goals.
• Present project findings, recommendations, and progress reports to stakeholders through virtual meetings and presentations.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in industrial engineering, with a strong emphasis on process optimization, lean manufacturing, and supply chain management.
• Proven experience in leading complex engineering projects, preferably with a distributed or remote team structure.
• Expertise in simulation software (e.g., Arena, AnyLogic) and advanced data analysis tools.
• Deep understanding and application of Six Sigma (Black Belt certification preferred) and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Exceptional remote communication, collaboration, and project management skills.
• Strong analytical and strategic problem‑solving abilities.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and achieve results in a remote setting.
• Must be legally authorized to work remotely within South Africa.
• Flexibility to work across different time zones as required by global project needs.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive remote work setup allowance, performance bonuses, and excellent health insurance coverage.
• This is a fully remote position, providing flexibility and work‑life balance.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development, including specialized training and certifications, are readily available.
• You will be part of a forward‑thinking, global organization with a strong emphasis on innovation and employee empowerment.
• The company fosters a culture that values autonomy and achievement.
• You will have the chance to work on challenging, impactful projects with a diverse international team, all from the comfort of your home office.
• This role is ideally suited for experienced professionals seeking a dynamic remote career.