Industrial Engineer - Production Planning & Scheduling

Our client, a respected producer of high-quality goods in the Stellenbosch, Western Cape region, is looking for a detail-oriented Industrial Engineer to focus on Production Planning and Scheduling. This remote role is ideal for an individual with strong analytical abilities and a knack for optimizing complex production sequences. You will be responsible for developing and implementing efficient production schedules that maximize resource utilization, minimize downtime, and ensure timely order fulfillment.

This position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to collaborate effectively with remote manufacturing and logistics teams. You will leverage advanced planning tools and data analysis to create robust schedules that align with business objectives and customer demands.

• Develop, implement, and maintain production schedules for multiple product lines, ensuring alignment with demand forecasts and capacity constraints.
• Analyze production data to identify trends, optimize sequencing, and minimize setup times and changeovers.
• Collaborate with sales, procurement, and manufacturing teams (remotely) to gather requirements and communicate production plans.
• Utilize advanced planning and scheduling (APS) software and ERP systems to create optimized production plans.
• Monitor production progress against schedules, identify deviations, and implement corrective actions to mitigate delays.
• Work with engineering teams to understand capacity limitations and introduce efficiencies in planning.
• Develop reports and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) related to on-time delivery, schedule adherence, and production efficiency.
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in planning processes and tools.
• Contribute to demand forecasting accuracy by providing insights into production capabilities and lead times.
• Ensure effective communication of production schedules and any potential disruptions to all relevant stakeholders across different time zones.

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, or a related quantitative field.
• 3-5 years of experience in production planning, scheduling, or a related industrial engineering role.
• Proficiency with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS) software.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret complex data sets to inform scheduling decisions.
• Excellent understanding of manufacturing processes, capacity planning, and inventory management principles.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage priorities effectively in a remote work environment.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, crucial for remote collaboration.
• Experience with simulation or optimization modeling is a plus.
• Knowledge of the manufacturing landscape in the Stellenbosch, Western Cape area is beneficial.

• Competitive remote salary and potential for annual performance bonus.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• Flexible working hours that support a work-life balance.
• Home office equipment allowance.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunities for online training and professional development.
• Exposure to diverse product lines and advanced planning methodologies.