Project Manager (Plant Process Improvement)

SUMMARY:
Project Manager (Engineering)

POSITION INFO:
The Project Manager will be responsible for identifying, planning and implementing projects aimed at improving plant processes, operational efficiency, productivity, quality and overall plant performance. The position requires a practical and technically capable individual who can assess existing processes, identify areas for improvement and manage improvement projects from initial investigation through to implementation and completion. Key Responsibilities Process Improvement Assess existing plant processes, systems and workflows to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks and areas for improvement. Develop practical solutions to improve productivity, equipment performance, product quality and operational efficiency. Review machinery, equipment layouts, production methods and material flow. Recommend improvements that reduce downtime, waste, production costs and operational risks. Support the implementation of continuous-improvement initiatives within the plant. Monitor the effectiveness of improvements and make further recommendations where required. Project Management Define project requirements, objectives, scope, timelines, budgets and deliverables. Prepare and maintain detailed project plans and implementation schedules. Manage and plant-improvement projects from concept through to completion. Coordinate internal employees, contractors, suppliers and other stakeholders involved in each project. Monitor project expenditure and ensure that projects are completed within the approved budget. Identify project risks and implement appropriate corrective or preventative measures. Provide regular progress reports to management. Ensure that completed projects are properly handed over to the relevant operational teams. Technical Support Apply mechanical\/electrical\/chemical\/metallurgy engineering principles when reviewing plant processes and proposed improvements. Assist with the selection, installation, commissioning and modification of plant machinery and equipment. Review technical drawings, specifications, equipment manuals and supplier proposals. Investigate recurring equipment or process failures and assist in determining the root cause. Work closely with production and maintenance teams to develop sustainable technical solutions. Ensure that modifications and improvements are properly documented. Stakeholder and Management Liaise with production, maintenance, quality, health and safety, procurement and senior management. Communicate project requirements clearly to all relevant stakeholders. Obtain and evaluate quotations from suppliers and contractors. Monitor contractor performance, workmanship and compliance with agreed specifications. Build effective working relationships across the plant and encourage employee participation in improvement initiatives. Quality, Health and Safety Ensure that all projects and process changes comply with applicable quality, health and safety requirements. Conduct appropriate risk assessments before implementing changes to machinery, equipment or plant processes. Ensure that contractors comply with the company's site rules and safety procedures. Support a safe working environment and immediately report unsafe conditions or practices. Ensure that process improvements do not compromise product quality or employee safety. Minimum Requirements A recognised Diploma in Mechanical\/Electrical\/Metallurgy\/ at NQF Level 6, or a relevant Bachelor's Degree\/Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Mechanical\/Electrical\/metallurgy\/Chemical Engineering at NQF Level 7 or 8. The qualification must be recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority. An ECSA-accredited qualification or ECSA registration would be advantageous. At least five years' relevant experience in a manufacturing, production or industrial plant environment. Demonstrated experience in plant-process improvement or engineering projects. Experience managing projects from planning through to implementation and completion. Sound knowledge of mechanical plant, machinery and production processes. Experience working with contractors, suppliers and multidisciplinary plant teams. A valid driver's licence. Advantageous Requirements Formal project-management training or certification. Exposure to Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen or other continuous-improvement methods. Experience in root-cause analysis and problem-solving techniques. Knowledge of AutoCAD or similar technical-drawing software. Working knowledge of Microsoft Project or another project-planning system. Knowledge of South African occupational health and safety requirements applicable to plant operations. Skills and Competencies Strong technical and mechanical\/electrical aptitude. Project planning and coordination skills. Analytical and practical problem-solving ability. Ability to identify inefficiencies and develop workable solutions. Strong organisational and time-management skills. Budgeting and cost-control ability. Good written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work effectively with production employees, technical teams, contractors and management. Sound decision-making and attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities. Results-driven and committed to continuous improvement. Comfortable working both in the plant and in an office environment. Key Performance Areas Performance will be assessed against: Successful completion of projects within agreed timelines and budgets. Measurable improvements in plant efficiency and productivity. Reduction in downtime, waste, defects or production costs. Quality and sustainability of implemented solutions. Compliance with safety, quality and technical requirements. Accuracy and timeliness of project reporting. Effective coordination of contractors, suppliers and internal teams. Successful handover and adoption of completed improvements.