Port Elizabeth: Production Engineer posted by Recruit-It

About the Role

The Production Engineer is responsible for supporting production operations through data analysis, process optimisation, and digital transformation initiatives. The role focuses on improving efficiency, reducing waste, enhancing quality, and enabling data-driven decision-making through the integration of Industrial IoT (IIoT) and smart manufacturing technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyse manufacturing processes to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and waste.
• Conduct time studies, motion studies, and workflow analysis.
• Support optimisation of injection moulding processes to improve productivity and reduce scrap.
• Assist in designing and improving production layouts, material flow, and ergonomics.
• Support process standardisation and documentation of best practices.
• Monitor process stability and support capability improvement initiatives (Cp, Cpk).
• Assist with process validation and continuous monitoring activities.

• Collect, clean, and analyse production and machine data to support decision-making.
• Develop and maintain dashboards and reports (e.g., Power BI, Excel).
• Track KPIs such as OEE, downtime, scrap rates, and efficiency.
• Identify trends, correlations, and root causes using data analysis techniques.
• Support predictive analytics initiatives (e.g., early identification of equipment failure trends).
• Ensure data accuracy, integrity, and consistency across ERP/MES systems.
• Support development of real-time data visualisation and reporting systems.

• Assist in implementing Industrial IoT (IIoT) solutions across production lines.
• Support integration of machines, sensors, and PLCs into data platforms.
• Monitor real-time equipment performance (e.g., OEE, uptime, cycle times).
• Work with IT and maintenance teams to ensure reliable data acquisition and connectivity.
• Support deployment and maintenance of smart manufacturing systems.

• Support Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives.
• Participate in root cause analysis (RCA) and structured problem-solving.
• Assist in implementing corrective and preventive actions.
• Contribute to Kaizen activities and improvement workshops.
• Identify and recommend opportunities for reducing scrap, rework, and downtime.
• Monitor and report on CI project progress and outcomes.

• Support automation projects and digital system implementations.
• Assist with the introduction of new technologies and process upgrades.
• Work with engineering teams on small-scale automation and optimisation initiatives.
• Learn and apply Industry 4.0 tools and methodologies.
• Support evaluation of new digital tools and manufacturing technologies.

• Provide analytical and technical support to daily production operations.
• Assist in monitoring machine performance, cycle times, and output.
• Support production escalation analysis (e.g., downtime, quality issues).
• Assist in capacity planning and production forecasting activities.
• Support implementation of engineering changes (ECNs/ECRs).

• Support quality improvement initiatives and adherence to specifications.
• Assist in investigating non-conformances and implementing corrective actions.
• Ensure processes align with quality standards such as IATF 16949.
• Support audit preparation and documentation.
• Promote a “right first time” manufacturing culture.

• Adhere to all health, safety, and environmental standards.
• Support risk assessments and safety improvement initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with ISO 45001 and ISO 14001 requirements.
• Promote safe work practices within production environments.

• Assist in analysing production costs (scrap, labour, material usage).
• Identify opportunities for cost reduction through data-driven insights.
• Support OEE improvement initiatives.
• Assist in evaluating small-scale CAPEX and process improvement opportunities.
• Contribute to energy efficiency and resource optimisation initiatives.
• Support with validation of Business case studies.

• Develop and maintain SOPs, work instructions, and process documentation.
• Create process flow diagrams and technical documentation.
• Maintain accurate records of production data and improvement initiatives.
• Support standardisation of reporting and documentation practices.

Requirements

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel
• Experience with Power BI or similar data visualisation tools
• Basic understanding of data analysis tools (Python, SQL advantageous)
• Interest in IoT, automation, and digital manufacturing
• Basic knowledge of PLCs and manufacturing systems (advantageous)
• Understanding of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles
• Familiarity with ERP/MES systems (e.g., SAP advantageous)

Qualifications

No specific qualifications mentioned.

Salary & Benefits

Salary information not provided.

Educational Requirements & Experience

• Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering (preferred) or Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or similar
• 0–2 years’ experience (internship or graduate experience in manufacturing is advantageous)
• Exposure to automotive or injection moulding environments advantageous