Transformation Project Engineer

Unilever · Durban, KwaZulu-Natal

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JOB PURPOSE

  • Unilever is the place where you can bring your purpose to life with the work that you do – creating a better business and a better world. If you are enthusiastic and passionate about delivering impactful projects that enable world-class performance, contributing to a better business and a better world, and seek an opportunity to bring your purpose to life, then this role is for you!

WHAT WILL YOUR MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES BE Project Delivery

  • Lead the end-to-end execution of Capital, Transformation and Continuous improvement projects - from initiation and feasibility through design, procurement, installation, commissioning, and production handover.
  • Develop and implement Project Execution Plans, schedules, and budgets, ensuring adherence to timelines, cost targets, and change management.
  • Collaborate with cross function teams to clarify briefs, define scope, and incorporate local requirements into Conceptual Engineering CE, Front End Engineering Design FEED, and Detailed Engineering DE Designs.

Financial & Resource Management

  • Prepare and define detailed scope of work, cost estimates, and Capital Expenditure Proposals CEP's, ensuring Capex Affordability metrics are achieved.
  • Manage project budgets, track spending and ensure compliance with authorisation limits, and Capex spend Forecast Accuracy.
  • Handle SAP project data, purchase requisitions, goods receipts, and supplier invoice queries.

Engineering Excellence

  • Apply World Class Manufacturing WCM principles and champion Early Equipment Management EEM to ensure hygienic, reliable, and maintainable plant design.
  • Provide discipline-specific input mechanical, civil, electrical, controls & automation for multi-disciplinary projects.
  • Liaise with global and cluster engineering teams to adopt best practices and new technologies.

Safety, Health & Environment SHE

  • Ensure compliance with relevant local legal regulations and standards, and Unilever SHE requirements during project design and execution.
  • Manages resources and contractors' safety on site throughout project execution.
  • Investigate incidents and implement corrective actions to maintain a safe working environment.

Factory Support & Continuous Improvement

  • Support production teams by troubleshooting recurring process issues and optimizing plant performance.
  • Develop and train operators on SOPs and modified processes.
  • Drive cost-effectiveness programs, waste minimization, and energy efficiency initiatives.
  • Design out recurring engineering problems and implement preventive measures.

Stakeholder Engagement

  • Run project team meetings, ensuring alignment across disciplines and adherence to EEM methodology.
  • Communicate project progress and outcomes to key senior stakeholders.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO SUCCEED Experiences & Qualifications

Qualification

  • Degree in Engineering Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial or related discipline: B. Tech, BSc Eng, or BEng.
  • Project Management certification or formal training preferred.

Experience

  • 3-5 years of Project Engineering experience in FMCG or related manufacturing industries.
  • Proven track record in managing capital projects from concept to commissioning.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to deliver projects to high engineering standards.
  • Knowledge of WCM principles and EEM methodology.
  • Proficiency in MS Office, MS Project, SAP, AutoCAD, and project management tools.
  • Managing hygiene and quality, safety & environment from equipment design standpoint.
  • Experience in plant design and project engineering within FMCG or engineering consultancy firms.
  • Working knowledge of international engineering standards.
  • Foods manufacturing experience advantageous.

Skills

Technical & Professional

  • Strong understanding of engineering design processes and lifecycle management feasibility, capability, preliminary and detailed engineering.
  • Proficient in project delivery: definition, procurement, installation, commissioning, and performance validation.
  • Proficiency in MS Office Excel, PowerPoint, Word and project management tools MS Project, Primavera, Agile.
  • Working knowledge of maintenance principles, quality assurance, asset care, and change management.
  • Expertise in World Class Manufacturing WCM and Early Equipment Management EEM methodologies.
  • Problem-solving and analytical skills to identify and resolve engineering challenges.
  • Competent with SAP Plant Maintenance and Purchasing, AutoCAD, and 3D design software.
  • Familiarity with IT systems for project management and engineering applications.
  • Strong understanding of OSH Act and compliance requirements

Project Management

  • Project Management skills with ability to plan, schedule, and execute projects effectively. Ability to manage project budgets, resources, and timelines effectively.
  • Skilled in contract management and conflict resolution.
  • Competent in capital budget control and cost optimization.
  • Ability to manage projects with task horizons ranging from 2 to 18 months.
  • Experience implementing supply chain innovation and technology projects.

Leadership & Communication

  • Demonstrates strong stakeholder engagement and clear communication for effective internal and external collaboration.
  • Leads and delivers results through cross-functional teams and contractor management with accountability and clarity.
  • Skilled in facilitating training and ensuring smooth vertical start-up for new installations.
  • Possesses excellent influencing and interpersonal skills, fostering teamwork across factory management, operators, and diverse functional teams.

Operational Excellence

  • Ensure timely project closure and seamless handover to operations.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives aligned with WCM principles.
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Transformation Project Engineer at Unilever — Durban, KwaZulu-Natal · JobAlertsZA