Vave Engineer – Rail / Train Manufacturing

Segula Technologies; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 450,000 - 650,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering company, Segula Technologies, is seeking a VAVE Engineer to spearhead cost optimisation in rail vehicle manufacturing. The role requires collaboration with cross-functional teams to implement design improvements and ensure compliance with industry standards. Candidates should have a degree in engineering and experience within automotive or aerospace sectors.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in VAVE, design-to-cost, or product engineering.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes and cost drivers.
• Familiarity with supplier development and cross-functional collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Conduct value analysis and cost benchmarking for train manufacturing.
• Lead design optimisation workshops to identify cost-saving initiatives.
• Prepare and present business cases for cost-saving proposals.

Skills

Analytical mindset

Communication

Teamwork

Project management

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

CAD software (e.g., CATIA, Siemens NX)

Cost analysis tools

ERP systems

Job description

VAVE Engineer – Rail / Train Manufacturing

Company Description

At SEGULA Technologies, you will have the opportunity to work on exciting projects and help shape the future within an innovative engineering company.

We support industries throughout their lifecycle—from innovation to end-of-life—by offering expertise in product and process design, manufacturing engineering, operational excellence, business turnaround strategies, staffing solutions, and ongoing support.

SEGULA Technologies is always looking for new, ingenious, and daring talents worldwide to support major industrial sectors including automotive, aeronautics, energy, railway, naval, oil & gas, and pharmaceuticals.

Job Purpose

We are seeking a proactive and analytical VAVE (Value Analysis / Value Engineering) Engineer to lead cost optimisation initiatives within the rail vehicle manufacturing sector.

The role involves identifying and implementing design improvements, supplier alternatives, and process optimisations to reduce costs while maintaining or enhancing quality, safety, and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

1. Conduct value analysis and cost benchmarking of components, systems, and assemblies used in train manufacturing.
2. Collaborate with engineering, purchasing, industrialisation, and suppliers to identify design-to-cost opportunities throughout the product lifecycle.
3. Lead design optimisation workshops (VAVE events) to identify cost-saving initiatives, standardisation opportunities, and performance improvements.
4. Evaluate make-or-buy scenarios, material substitutions, and manufacturing process enhancements.
5. Ensure all proposed changes comply with railway industry standards and regulations (EN, IRIS, ISO, etc.).
6. Prepare and present detailed business cases for cost-saving proposals, including technical justification and ROI analysis.
7. Support product development and industrialisation teams in implementing approved VAVE actions.
8. Track savings achieved and report progress regularly to senior management and programme stakeholders.

Minimum Skills and Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in VAVE, design-to-cost, or product engineering, ideally within rail, automotive, or aerospace sectors.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, cost drivers, and product development in rolling stock or related industries.
• Experience with CAD software (e.g., CATIA, Siemens NX), cost analysis tools, and ERP systems.
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and project management skills.
• Analytical mindset with a results-driven and cost-conscious approach.
• Familiarity with supplier development and cross-functional collaboration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• Prior exposure to train subsystems (e.g., bogies, interiors, electrical systems) is an advantage.
• Understanding of supply chain economics and design for manufacturing & assembly (DFMA).
• Six Sigma or Lean Engineering certification is a plus.

Additional Information

Position is full-time and based in Alberton or Nigel, Gauteng, South Africa. The role is at a mid-senior level and involves working within the automotive industry sector.

This job posting is active; no indication of expiration was found.