Engineering Manager at DSM-Firmenich

• Working alongside the Project Manager and with the Operations management team, as our successful Engineering Manager you will have the Midrand site Master Project responsibility.  
• You will lead large-scale projects at our Midrand Operations site, varying from the current site upgrade project to larger cost savings initiatives involving major Capex work.
• This role is central to the successful execution of a multi-year plant refurbishment program, involving complex improvement and expansion initiatives. You will drive engineering excellence, ensure compliance with industry standards, and deliver high-impact solutions that support our purpose of enhancing lives through sustainable innovation.

Your key responsibilities:

Project Leadership & Execution

• Lead large Capex projects (>1 MCHF) across Electrical, Civil, and Mechanical disciplines
• Ensure all works meet GMP, FSSC, and SHE standards
• Oversee scope development, design, and execution in collaboration with contractors and internal teams
• Act as the primary point of contact for contractors, ensuring alignment with project scope and timelines
• Write and manage daily Permits to Work (PTWs) for contractor activities

Engineering Compliance & Documentation

• Maintain overall Site Engineering compliance, including Maintenance and Project work
• Ensure accurate “as-installed” drawings and comprehensive Operating & Maintenance documentation
• Administer purchasing and stock control for project-related parts and ensure proper handover to Production and Maintenance teams

Stakeholder Engagement & Team Coordination

• Liaise with the Plant Director, Site Maintenance Manager, and Project Manager to align priorities
• Coordinate and lead internal teams and external partners to resolve technical queries efficiently
• Support contractors to ensure unhindered progress and timely completion of work

Quality Assurance & Project Close-Out

• Identify and resolve snags in collaboration with internal stakeholders
• Coordinate testing and commissioning activities, ensuring data is accurately recorded
• Ensure Management of Change (MOC), Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), and site commissioning are executed to standard
• Oversee successful handover of completed projects to factory production teams

We offer:

• A transformative journey of learning, growth, and innovation
• The opportunity to shape the future of sustainable food technology
• A collaborative and purpose-driven culture focused on improving lives
• The chance to lead breakthrough engineering projects with global impact

You bring:

• Degree in Electrical, Chemical, Industrial, or Mechanical Engineering
• Proven experience in the food processing industry
• Project Management certification (required)
• Lean Six Sigma qualification (preferred)
• Government Certificate of Compliance (GCC) – South Africa (required)
• Strong organizational, leadership, and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to manage contractors and ensure timely, high-quality project delivery