Permanent - Production Engineer - Ekurhuleni (East Rand) - South Africa

Job Purpose:

• We are seeking a skilled and proactive Production Engineer to oversee and optimize the manufacturing processes of fiberglass poles.
• The Production Engineer is responsible for optimizing manufacturing processes, ensuring efficient production flow, maintaining product quality standards, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in composite materials, process engineering, and lean manufacturing.
• This role is critical to ensuring high-quality production, minimizing waste, improving operational efficiency and implementation of new technologies.

Key Responsibilities:

Production & Process Optimization

• Design, implement, and improve manufacturing processes for fiberglass pole production.
• Monitor, analyse, and improve production processes to enhance efficiency, quality, and output.
• Manage production schedules and ensure timely delivery of products.
• Apply lean manufacturing and Six Sigma principles to reduce waste and enhance productivity.
• Analyse production data to identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement.
• Maintain accurate documentation of processes, SOPs, and quality checks.

Quality

• Accountable for maintaining and enhancing product and process quality
• Investigate process deviations and implement corrective and preventive actions
• Drive root-cause analysis activities
•  Ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards in production activities.
• Work closely with Quality and Maintenance teams to ensure consistent product standards.

Equipment & Maintenance Support

• Coordinate with maintenance team to ensure optimal machine performance and minimal downtime.
• Participate in equipment installation, calibration, and upgrades.
• Ensure all equipment comply with safety and quality standards.

Data & Performance Management

• Track production metrics (OEE, NQC, Efficiency, Waste, Downtime) and report on performance trends.
• Develop process documentation, performance reports, and cost analysis.

Cross-functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with R&D, Maintenance, Quality, and Supply Chain to ensure smooth operations.
• Ensure design for manufacture requirements are considered and support on new product industrialization.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Train and mentor production staff on new technologies and procedures.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial, Mechanical, Production Engineering or Chemical Engineering.
• 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably with composites or fiberglass.
• Experience with lean manufacturing, process control, and continuous improvement tools.
• Proficiency in CAD software and production planning systems (ERP/MRP).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of resin systems, curing cycles, and composite material behaviour.
• Knowledge of quality systems (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, OSHA standards and environmental compliance) is advantageous.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Project management and organizational skills.
• Technical aptitude with process automation and manufacturing systems.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and efficiency.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Production efficiency and output rates.
• Reduction in downtime and waste.
• Achievement of quality standards and defect reduction.
• Successful implementation of process improvement projects.
• Compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations