Industry 4.0: Emerging job categories and associated competencies in the automotive industry in South Africa

Orientation Industry 4.0 is causing significant technological and operational changes in the South African automotive industry and adapting human resources to these changes is essential for enhancing organisational productivity and competitiveness.Research purpose This study investigated emerging job categories in the South African automotive industry and the competencies associated with these job categories.Motivation for the study The automotive industry is the largest contributor to South African gross domestic product (GDP), and the evolution of Industry 4.0 in the automotive industry influences the competencies required from employees.Research approach/design and method A qualitative descriptive research design was used. Purposive and convenience sampling were used and 30 semi-structured interviews were conducted with HR managers, engineers and production managers working in South African automotive organisations.Main findings Organisations in the automotive industry in South Africa were making strides in adopting automation in operational processes, yet experienced challenges related to human resources. New job categories were emerging requiring a hybrid competency set.Practical/managerial implications The constant changes associated with Industry 4.0 in the automotive industry requires the continuous re-alignment of employees’ competencies with emerging job categories which, in turn, requires organisations to reconfigure their talent management strategies. Existing employees should be upskilled and reskilled, new recruits should meet future needs of the organisation.Contribution/value-adding The study guides HR practitioners and automotive professionals in terms of emerging job categories and skills sets required. Knowledge of these changes will assist them in developing an effective talent management strategy.