Manufacturing Engineers

Facility Engineer

Manufacturing Engineer

Plant Engineer

Process Engineer

Process Improvement Engineer

What is a Manufacturing Engineer?

Manufacturing engineers are specialized professionals focused on the design, development, and optimization of manufacturing processes and systems. They work to improve production efficiency and quality by integrating various technologies and methodologies. Their role often involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, including design engineers, quality assurance, and production teams, to refine manufacturing procedures and ensure that products are produced reliably and economically. Manufacturing engineers use principles of engineering, materials science, and management to analyze production methods and implement solutions that enhance productivity while minimizing waste. Additionally, they may be involved in the selection and implementation of manufacturing technology, such as robotics and automation, as well as managing production schedules and inventory. Overall, their aim is to streamline manufacturing operations, reduce costs, and ensure that the final product meets or exceeds industry standards and customer expectations.

Job Outlook

Projected salary and job growth

$65320.0 - $142220.0

This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.

Finding local jobs...

Assessment

Related assessments and tests

No assessment available.

Related Occupations

Tasks

Troubleshoot new or existing product problems involving designs, materials, or processes.
Investigate or resolve operational problems, such as material use variances or bottlenecks.
Identify opportunities or implement changes to improve manufacturing processes or products or to reduce costs, using knowledge of fabrication processes, tooling and production equipment, assembly methods, quality control standards, or product design, materials and parts.
Apply continuous improvement methods, such as lean manufacturing, to enhance manufacturing quality, reliability, or cost-effectiveness.
Provide technical expertise or support related to manufacturing.

Technology Skills

Computer aided design CAD software
Desktop communications software
- Eko
Electronic mail software
Development environment software
Computer aided manufacturing CAM software

Tools Used

Micrometers
- Digital micrometers
Calipers
- Digital calipers
Notebook computers
- Laptop computers
Personal digital assistant PDAs or organizers
- Personal digital assistants PDA
Scientific calculator
- Scientific calculators

Knowledge

Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

578 Active Jobs in South Africa

Avg Salary: R44,154pm

How to Know if You Are Ready for a Career in Manufacturing Engineering in South Africa

Manufacturing Engineering is a cornerstone of the South African economy, bridging the gap between innovative design and physical production. Currently, the market is vibrant with 580 active jobs available. For those considering this path, the financial outlook is equally promising; while the average monthly salary sits at R44,154pm, 2024 has seen a significant upward trend, starting at approximately R38,856.36 in January and projected to reach R48,570.46 by December. This growth reflects the increasing value placed on professionals who can optimise production in an evolving industrial landscape.

Is Manufacturing Engineering Right for Me? (Psychometric Checklist)

Before committing to the rigorous training required, it is essential to assess whether your temperament and cognitive style align with the demands of the factory floor and the boardroom. Ask yourself if you possess the following traits:

Analytical Problem-Solving: Do you instinctively look for ways to make processes faster, cheaper, and safer?
Spatial Awareness and Technical Aptitude: Can you visualise complex mechanical systems and understand how various components interact?
Resilience Under Pressure: Can you maintain focus and lead a team when a production line stops and every minute costs the company thousands of Rands?
Meticulous Attention to Detail: Do you have a "measure twice, cut once" mindset, especially regarding quality control and safety standards?
Collaborative Leadership: Are you comfortable communicating technical concepts to both shop-floor operators and executive stakeholders?

A Day in the Life of a South African Manufacturing Engineer

In the South African context, your day often begins early—frequently before the first shift starts. Whether you are working in the automotive hubs of Gqeberha and Pretoria, or the FMCG plants in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, the environment is fast-paced. You might start with a "toolbox talk" to ensure all safety protocols are being followed according to the OHS Act.

The morning is typically spent on the factory floor, identifying bottlenecks or troubleshooting a malfunctioning robotic arm. By midday, you might be in the office, utilising CAD software to redesign a component or analysing production data to reduce waste. You are the "glue" that holds the production process together, constantly balancing the need for high output with the necessity of maintaining machine health and worker safety. Your role is not just about machines; it is about the efficient organisation of people, materials, and energy.

Education & Upskilling: The Path to Mastery

Becoming a professional Manufacturing Engineer in South Africa requires a solid foundation and a commitment to lifelong learning.

Formal Education:

University Degrees: A BEng or BSc in Mechanical, Industrial, or Mechatronic Engineering from an ECSA-accredited university is the gold standard for those seeking Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) status.
TVET Colleges and Universities of Technology: A National Diploma or BTech in Engineering provides a more practical, hands-on entry point, leading to registration as a Professional Technician or Technologist.

Continuous Learning and Certifications:

The manufacturing world moves quickly. To remain competitive and move toward the higher end of the 2024 salary scale, you must pursue short courses and niche certifications. Proficiency in Lean Six Sigma (Green or Black Belt), ISO Quality Management Systems, and Project Management (PMP) is highly regarded by South African employers. Furthermore, as Industry 4.0 takes hold, upskilling in Data Analytics and Robotics is no longer optional—it is a requirement for long-term career progression.

Next Steps: Test Your Readiness

Recognising that you have the interest is the first step, but confirming your aptitude is what will set you on the path to success. The South African manufacturing sector is hungry for dedicated, skilled engineers who can drive local industry toward global excellence. Are you truly prepared to take on the challenge of modern production? Test your readiness now by completing our comprehensive Manufacturing Engineering Career Assessment.

Skills

Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Mathematics
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Judgment and Decision Making
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

Abilities

Category Flexibility
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

Education

How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?

Bachelor's degree

76 %
Associate's degree

16 %
Some college, no degree

4 %

Work Activities

Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Analyzing Data or Information
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.

Detailed Work Activities

Determine causes of operational problems or failures.
Analyze operational data to evaluate operations, processes or products.
Resolve operational performance problems.
Develop technical methods or processes.
Implement design or process improvements.

Work Interests

Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.