Industrial Engineer – Abattoir Systems & Process Optimization

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

To design, implement, and maintain efficient operational systems within the abattoir, ensuring optimal productivity, compliance, quality, and cost control. The role focuses on continuous improvement, process standardization, and maintaining structured systems across all operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Systems & Process Management
  
  • Develop, implement, and maintain standardized operating procedures (SOPs) across all abattoir processes
  • Ensure systems are consistently followed and updated where necessary
  • Monitor workflow efficiency from livestock intake through to dispatch
  • Identify process bottlenecks and implement corrective actions
•  Continuous Improvement
  
  • Drive lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Conduct time-and-motion studies to improve productivity
  • Implement waste reduction strategies and cost-saving initiatives
  • Optimize resource utilization (labour, equipment, materials)
• Compliance & Quality Control
  
  • Ensure processes align with food safety standards (e.g., HACCP, ISO where applicable)
  • Maintain traceability systems and audit readiness
  • Support health, safety, and environmental compliance
  • Work closely with quality assurance teams
• Data Analysis & Reporting
  
  • Collect and analyse operational data to support decision-making
  • Develop KPIs and performance dashboards
  • Report on production efficiency, downtime, and yield performance
  • Recommend improvements based on data insights
• Production Planning Support
  
  • Assist with production scheduling and capacity planning
  • Align operational output with demand forecasts
  • Improve throughput without compromising quality
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
  
  • Work with operations, maintenance, QA, and logistics teams
  • Train staff on systems and process adherence
  • Support change management initiatives

Minimum Requirements
Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering or related field
• Relevant certifications in Lean, Six Sigma, or Operations Management (advantageous)

Preferred Qualifications

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt
• Certification in Food Safety Systems (HACCP, ISO 22000)
• Project Management certification (e.g., PMP or equivalent)
• Training in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel Advanced, Power BI)

Experience

• 5+ years’ experience in industrial engineering or process optimization
• Experience in FMCG, food processing, or abattoir/meat processing environment (highly advantageous)
• Proven experience in implementing systems and improving operational efficiency

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Process mapping and systems thinking
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles
• Excellent attention to detail
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, regulated environment
• Data-driven decision-making

Working Conditions

• Based in an abattoir/processing plant environment
• May require working in cold or regulated areas
• Occasional overtime depending on production demands