Industrial Engineer â Abattoir Systems & Process Optimization
Job Title: Industrial Engineer (Abattoir Operations)
Job Purpose
To design, optimise, and manage operational systems within an abattoir to improve productivity, reduce waste, ensure food safety compliance, and enhance overall efficiency across the meat processing value chain.
Key Responsibilities- Systems & Process Optimisation
Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies in production lines
Improve plant layout, workflow, and material handling systems
Apply lean manufacturing principles to eliminate waste
- Continuous Improvement
Conduct time-and-motion studies to improve labour productivity
Reduce operational costs and increase yield performance
Drive automation and process standardisation projects
- Production Planning & Efficiency
Align throughput with demand forecasts
Optimise labour, equipment, and resource utilisation
Monitor downtime, throughput, and line efficiency
- Data Analysis & Reporting
Develop KPIs and performance dashboards
Provide reports on: Yield and waste
Production efficiencyCost performance
Use tools such as Excel, Power BI, ERP systems
- Compliance & Quality Control
Ensure adherence to: HACCP (food safety)
ISO standards (e.g., ISO 22000)South African meat safety regulations
Maintain traceability systems
Support audits and inspections
Collaborate with QA and food safety teams
- Health, Safety & Environmental Management
Identify and mitigate operational risks
Ensure compliance with OHS Act (South Africa)
Work in cold-chain and regulated environments
- Project Management
Develop budgets, timelines, and ROI analyses
Implement capital expenditure (CAPEX) projects
Coordinate with contractors and suppliers
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work with: Operations
MaintenanceQuality Assurance
Logistics & Supply Chain
Train staff on systems and process adherence
Support change management initiatives
Minimum RequirementsQualifications
Bachelors Degree in Industrial Engineering or related field
Registration with Engineering Council of South Africa (advantageous)
Experience
35+ years in: FMCG / food processing / abattoir environmentProven experience in: Process optimisation
Production environmentsContinuous improvement projects
Certifications (Advantageous)Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt / Black Belt)
HACCP / Food Safety certification
Project Management (PMP or similar)
Key Skills & CompetenciesTechnical Skills
Process mapping & workflow analysis
Data analysis and statistical modelling
ERP systems and production planning tools
Knowledge of meat processing operations
Behavioural Skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
Attention to detail
Communication and stakeholder engagement
Leadership and project management
Ability to work in high-pressure, regulated environments
Working ConditionsBased in an abattoir / meat processing plant
Exposure to: Cold storage areas
Wet and high-risk environmentsMay require overtime, shift work, or weekend work
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)Production efficiency & throughput
Waste reduction and yield improvement
Cost savings achieved
Compliance audit results
Downtime reduction
Process improvement implementation rate