CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT ENGINEER (MECHANICAL ENGINEERING) | Bellville, Cape Town

POSITION OVERVIEW

An established manufacturing organisation based in Cape Town is seeking to appoint two experienced Continuous Improvement Engineers (Mechanical Engineering) to join its engineering team.

This role is suited to a t echnically strong Mechanical Engineer with a proven background in manufacturing, production optimisation, mechanical design and engineering project management.

The successful candidates will be responsible for identifying and implementing improvements across manufacturing processes, machinery and existing products, with a strong focus on operational efficiency, quality, cost reduction and productivity.

The position combines hands-on technical engineering, continuous improvement initiatives, project execution and the coordination of engineering resources.

Applications from experienced Project Engineers with relevant manufacturing, mechanical engineering and process improvement experience will also be considered.

Production & Process Improvement

• Analyse existing manufacturing processes and identify opportunities to improve productivity, quality and operational efficiency.
• Investigate production inefficiencies, product deviations and recurring technical problems.
• Collect and analyse production data to identify improvement opportunities.
• Develop practical engineering solutions to improve production output, reduce waste and optimise manufacturing costs.
• Investigate opportunities for machinery improvements, automation and process optimisation.
• Establish and improve production specifications, tolerances, process controls and standard operating procedures.

Mechanical Engineering & Design

• Evaluate existing machinery and equipment to identify opportunities for technical improvements.
• Develop engineering concepts and mechanical design modifications using CAD software, technical calculations and engineering principles.
• Conduct technical investigations and testing on existing and new products.
• Recommend product design improvements based on technical findings, testing and industry developments.
• Assist with new product development and research and development (R&D) projects.
• Investigate technical quality concerns and recommend corrective improvements.

Engineering Projects & Implementation

• Plan, coordinate and execute engineering improvement projects from initial concept through to implementation.
• Conduct project feasibility assessments and develop preliminary project scopes.
• Prepare project plans, timelines, Gantt charts and deliverables.
• Coordinate engineering resources, manufacturing activities and project implementation.
• Monitor project progress, ensuring deadlines, technical specifications and quality requirements are achieved.
• Manage engineering changes, product improvement requests and related documentation.
• Support the creation and maintenance of relevant technical information, including Bills of Materials (BOMs).

Cost Reduction & Operational Efficiency

• Identify opportunities to reduce manufacturing costs through improved machinery, production methods and resource utilisation.
• Investigate alternative manufacturing solutions, in-house production opportunities and supplier alternatives.
• Explore automation and equipment modifications to improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary manual processes.

Team Coordination & Leadership

• Oversee and coordinate the activities of the Engineering Foreman and artisan team.
• Allocate resources and coordinate engineering activities to support project requirements.
• Monitor team performance, productivity and quality standards.
• Support staff development and ensure engineering activities are completed safely and effectively.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Grade 12 / Matric.
• BTech or BEng Degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Additional technical certifications or leadership qualifications will be advantageous.

EXPERIENCE

• Approximately 5–7 years' relevant experience in mechanical engineering, continuous improvement, project engineering or a similar technical engineering role.
• At least 3–5 years' practical experience within a factory or manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated experience in production optimisation, machinery improvements and engineering problem-solving.
• Experience in mechanical design, CAD modelling and technical calculations.
• Proven ability to plan, coordinate and implement engineering projects.
• Experience overseeing engineering teams, artisans or technical project resources.

TECHNICAL SKILLS & COMPETENCIES

• Strong understanding of mechanical machinery, manufacturing equipment and production processes.
• Sound mechanical fault-finding and technical problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to analyse production figures, identify trends and develop effective improvement solutions.
• Strong mathematical, analytical and technical reasoning skills.
• Practical understanding of manufacturing quality, productivity, efficiency and cost-control principles.
• Knowledge of engineering project planning and implementation.
• Ability to develop and interpret technical drawings and engineering specifications.
• Strong leadership, planning and organisational skills.
• Good understanding of workplace safety requirements.
• Proficiency in both English and Afrikaans.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• A proactive, practical and solutions-driven approach.
• Strong analytical thinking and attention to detail.
• The ability to identify problems and implement sustainable improvements.
• Confidence in managing engineering projects and coordinating technical teams.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A strong commitment to quality, efficiency and cost-effective manufacturing.
• Adaptability and the ability to perform under pressure and meet deadlines.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Suitable candidates are invited to submit an updated CV highlighting their relevant mechanical engineering qualifications, manufacturing experience, continuous improvement initiatives and engineering project involvement.

Email: ***email_hidden***

Subject: Continuous Improvement Engineer – Cape Town

Please note that only candidates meeting the relevant requirements will be considered.

Should you not receive feedback within 14 days of submitting your application, please consider your application unsuccessful on this occasion.