Project / Production Manager
Role Overview
A specialist vehicle manufacturer based in Port Elizabeth is seeking a highly skilled Project / Production Manager with a strong background in Mechanical Engineering and specialist automotive or automotive component manufacturing. In this hybrid role, you will bridge the gap between engineering design/development, client programme timelines, and shop-floor production. This position relates to an exciting project where you will be responsible for leading the introduction of a prototype EV vehicle to final manufacture, ensuring all automotive quality, safety, and delivery metrics are met.
Key Responsibilities
Project Management & Program Delivery
Introduce and lead team to deliver specialist automotive components and assemblies from engineering sign-off to Production.
Develop and execute detailed project schedules.
Manage project budgets, tooling capitalization, resource allocation, and risk mitigation.
Act as the primary factory technical point of contact with client and specialized suppliers.
Production & Operations Leadership
Oversee daily production activities, prioritizing workplace safety, operational efficiency, and quality.
Translate engineering drawings, CAD data into manufacturing routing and standard operating procedures.
Optimize shop-floor layout, machine capacity utilization, and specialized tooling deployments.
Engineering Integration & Quality Compliance
Lead Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) reviews to bridge the gap between R&D and the production line.
Ensure manufacturing processes comply with strict automotive quality standards (e.g., IATF 16949, ISO 9001).
Required Qualifications & Experience
Education
Experience
5+ years of combined experience in project management and production leadership within an automotive component or specialist vehicle manufacturing environment.
Proven track record working with specialist components (e.g., advanced chassis, suspension systems, specialized drivetrains, precision fabrications, or specialty EV integration).
Proficient in interpreting complex engineering drawings and 3D CAD data (e.g., SolidWorks).
Strong command of project management frameworks and ERP/MRP systems.
Experience in composites is advantageous
