Eastern Cape: Production Engineer (Graduate) posted by Staff Solutions

Job Description: 

Process Analysis & Optimisation

• Analyse manufacturing processes to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and waste.
• Conduct time studies, workflow analysis, and support process improvements to increase productivity and reduce scrap.
• Assist with production layout optimisation, material flow improvements, and process standardisation.
• Monitor process performance, capability (Cp/Cpk), validation, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Collect, analyse, and interpret production and machine data to support decision-making.
• Develop and maintain dashboards and reports using tools such as Power BI and Excel.
• Monitor KPIs including OEE, downtime, scrap rates, cycle times, and efficiency.
• Identify trends, root causes, and opportunities for performance improvement while ensuring data accuracy across systems.

Smart Manufacturing & Automation

• Support implementation of IoT, automation, and Industry 4.0 initiatives.
• Assist with machine, sensor, PLC, and data platform integration.
• Monitor real-time equipment performance and support digital transformation projects.
• Evaluate and implement new manufacturing technologies and digital tools.

Continuous Improvement

• Support Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, and structured problem-solving initiatives.
• Participate in root cause analysis and implementation of corrective and preventive actions.
• Identify opportunities to reduce waste, downtime, rework, and production costs.
• Track and report on improvement project progress and outcomes.

Production, Quality & Compliance Support

• Provide analytical and technical support to production operations.
• Monitor machine performance, capacity planning, forecasting, and engineering change implementation.
• Support quality improvement initiatives, non-conformance investigations, audits, and compliance with IATF 16949, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, and ISO 50001 standards.
• Promote a “right first time” manufacturing culture.

Cost, Documentation & Collaboration

• Analyse production costs and support cost-reduction initiatives through data-driven insights.
• Develop and maintain SOPs, work instructions, process documentation, and reporting standards.
• Collaborate with Production, Maintenance, Quality, Logistics, Tooling, and IT teams.
• Participate in production, project, and continuous improvement meetings while providing accurate and timely reporting.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics Engineering, or similar (Master’s preferred).
• 0–2 years’ manufacturing experience; automotive or injection moulding exposure advantageous.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Advanced Excel skills with experience in Power BI; exposure to Python, SQL, ERP/MES systems, IoT, PLCs, Lean Manufacturing, and Six Sigma advantageous.
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, organised, and able to work independently or within cross-functional teams.