Production Engineer (Graduate)

SUMMARY:
NEW VACANCY !!!
An exciting opportunity is available for a recent Engineering graduate to join a dynamic manufacturing environment. The successful candidate will support process optimisation, data analysis, continuous improvement, and digital transformation initiatives to improve production efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance overall operational performance. Based in Port Elizabeth

POSITION INFO:

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.