Senior Engineering Manager (Metal pressing)

A manufacturer of automotive components based in Durban is looking for a Senior Enginnering Manager reporting to the Chief Operations Officer.

Job Purpose:

The incumbent needs to work with the executive to ensure that there is an effective and qualified engineering department that can meet the demands of the customers. Also determine departmental goals and objectives to ensure all departments comply with all relevant legislation and company policies and procedures.

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

• Bachelors degree/diploma in Mechanical/Electrical engineering or a relevant qualification
• 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
• Added Advantage Experience:
• 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

• Facilitating and coaching
• Time management
• Conflict handling
• Negotiation
• Able to communicate with groups
• Good writing skills
• Assertiveness
• Listening skills
• Problem-solving
• Meeting skills
• Approachable
• Good listener
• Calm in difficult situations
• Being comfortable with being firm