Our Client in the Manufacturing Industry is seeking to employ a Senior Engineering Manager to their team based in Pinetown KwaZulu - Natal.

Role Purpose: To lead and manage the engineering function within the automotive manufacturing facility, focusing on process optimization, project execution, product quality, and continuous improvement.

Requirements:

• Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in Engineering Management in an automotive environment.
• Proven experience in project management within a manufacturing environment, preferably in automotive.
• Strong expertise in process improvement techniques and time studies.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication and leadership abilities.
• Experience in Automotive Industry.
• Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma Certification.
• Knowledge of CAD-Software.
• Familiarity with Quality Management Systems (e.g., IATF 16949).
• Advanced Project Management Skills.
• Cross-Functional Team Leadership.
• Data Analysis and Statistical Process Control (SPC).
• Change Management Experience.
• Supplier and Customer Interaction.

Responsibilities, but not limited to:

Leadership and Management

• Ensure Lead, mentor, and develop a team of process, project, and maintenance engineers.
• Set departmental objectives aligned with business goals.
• Promote a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Manage departmental budgets, capital expenditure, and resources efficiently.

Process Engineering

• Oversee process design, validation, and optimization to ensure efficient, cost-effective production.
• Identify bottlenecks and implement lean manufacturing principles (Kaizen, Six Sigma, 5S, etc.).
• Drive improvements in cycle time, waste reduction, and equipment utilization.
• Ensure process compliance with OEM and Tier 1 supplier standards.

Project Engineering management

• Plan, execute, and oversee engineering projects including new product introductions (NPI), equipment installation, and line upgrades.
• Develop detailed project plans, budgets, and timelines, ensuring stakeholder alignment.
• Manage cross-functional teams (production, quality and logistics) to deliver project objectives.
• Ensure all projects meet environmental, safety, and quality standards.

Technical and Operational Support

• Provide technical expertise in tooling, automation, robotics, and process control systems.
• Ensure engineering documentation and standard operating procedures (SOPs) are maintained.
• Support root cause analysis (RCA) and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA) for process and quality issues.
• Collaborate with R&D, Product Engineering, and suppliers on design-for-manufacture (DFM) initiatives.

Compliance and Quality

• Ensure compliance with ISO/TS 16949, IATF 16949, ISO 14001, and relevant automotive standards.
• Participate in audits and customer reviews.
• Maintain risk assessments, FMEAs, and process control documentation.
• Ensure understanding and application of all relevant policies and procedures set out in the Quality Management System as may be appropriate.

New business

• RFQ process:
• Review customer drawings and specifications.
• Determine process line ups, including tools, jigs and assembly fixtures.
• Define labour and cycle time requirements.
• Determine if new or existing technologies can be used.
• ECI process.
• Product realization process.
• Familiarity with change management processes to effectively implement new technologies or methodologies.

Management Reporting

• Attend management meetings and report on departmental/company performance.
• Ensure an understanding of the departmental budget, as may be applicable, and ensure a practice of cost control.
• Ensure accurate and timely reporting as may apply to the respective KPAs for the position.

Supplier and Customer Interaction

• Liaising with suppliers and customers to improve processes and resolve issues.

Standards, Procedures and Administration

• Ensure compliance with all Company standards and procedures.
• Ensure all administration and documentation are presented neatly and professionally.

Safety, Health, Environmental and Housekeeping

• Adhere to all laid down Company safety policies and the OHS-Act.
• Report all unsafe equipment.
• Wear all PPE at all times.

Please note that should you not receive a response within 2 weeks of applying, you may consider your application unsuccessful.