Sanelisiwe Mtikitiki
Process Engineering Graduate Trainee
East London
Summary
I am a driven and detail-oriented Process Engineering Graduate Trainee (Mercedes Benz South Africa, 2023–Current) with a strong foundation in process design, optimization, and quality improvement. My academic background and hands-on training have equipped me with the ability to analyze systems, identify inefficiencies, and implement practical, cost-effective solutions. I excel at working both independently and within cross-functional teams to achieve operational excellence. With a high level of self-motivation, adaptability, and a passion for continuous improvement, I am committed to delivering innovative results that add measurable value to any engineering environment.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
2
2
Languages
Work History
Process Engineer in Training (GDP)
Mercedes-Benz
East London
06.2023 - Current
- Created and maintained comprehensive Standard Work Instructions (SWI) and Job Element Sheets (JES) to standardize operations and ensure quality compliance.
- Conducted process audits to verify compliance, identify gaps, and recommend corrective actions.
- Provided hands-on support for production operations, including initiating call outs for process optimization and addressing operational bottlenecks.
- Investigated production breakdowns, conducted root cause analyses, and implemented effective containment measures and long-term process improvements.
- Performed sealer & spot weld optimizations and modifications to meet volume and dimensional requirements, enhancing final product quality.
- Analyzed HOP (Hang On Parts) destructive test results to verify integrity, ensure compliance, and guide process modifications with reference with Quality standards.
- Applied basic knowledge of metrology principles and inline measuring systems to maintain precise process control & understanding.
- Created and delivered professional presentations to report planned actions, project updates, and outcomes in action center meetings.
- Designed, modified, and optimized jigs and fixtures for improved process accuracy following engineering changes.
- Diagnosed robotic program errors, created structured program folders, added new points, and performed necessary touch-ups to ensure flawless operation.
- Updated and maintained SFM (Shop Floor Management) reports for Action Center meetings, tracking progress on process improvements.
- Proficiently used engineering support systems (Engineering Client, Dialogue, START, Doc Master, DX weld, etc.) to streamline technical operations.
- Coordinated and conducted customer-requested process trials (e.g., Paint Shop), implementing approved improvements after quality validation.
- Participated in project reviews to enable ongoing status tracking and reporting.
- Developed process documentation, optimized area layouts and workflow, regulatory standards and specifications to meet project requirements.
- Prepared scope of work documentation for use in project planning
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to improve product quality, resulting in increased customer satisfaction.
- Conducted root cause analysis to identify, prioritize and eliminate process losses, using Fishbone diagram, 5 whys & 3D.
- Coordinated with suppliers to resolve raw material issues affecting production schedules
Education
ND - Mechanical Engineering
Walter Sisulu University
East London05.2023
Matric -
Daliwonga S.S.S
Cofimvaba11.2017
Skills
References
- L., Ntwatwa, Lecturer, 0795002563, WSU
- M., Baloyi, Process Engineer, Mentor, 0614508629, MBSA, EL
Timeline
Process Engineer in Training (GDP)
Mercedes-Benz
06.2023 - Current
ND - Mechanical Engineering
Walter Sisulu University
Matric -
Daliwonga S.S.S