Mechanical Engineer - Agricultural Machinery

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 65,000 - 98,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Queenstown is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to design and develop agricultural machinery and components. The role emphasizes robust, user-friendly designs, with a hands-on approach to prototyping, testing, and field trials.

The ideal candidate holds a Mechanical Engineering degree and 3–4 years of relevant experience, with CAD proficiency and strong problem-solving skills, to work with cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 3–4 years' experience in mechanical design, preferably with agricultural machinery or heavy equipment.
• Experience with CAD software and simulations.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop new agricultural machinery and components using CAD software.
• Modify and improve existing machinery designs to enhance performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct engineering calculations, stress analysis, and simulations to validate designs.
• Create detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and BOMs.
• Collaborate with production teams to ensure designs are manufacturable and meet quality standards.
• Participate in prototyping, testing, and field trials; analyze performance data.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues and provide technical support to manufacturing and service departments.
• Research and select appropriate materials and components for rugged agricultural applications.
• Stay informed about advancements in agricultural technology and machinery design.

Skills

CAD proficiency

Structural analysis & simulations

Problem solving

Communication & reporting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading manufacturer of agricultural machinery, dedicated to providing innovative and reliable equipment to farmers across South Africa. They are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join their team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This role involves the design, development, testing, and refinement of agricultural implements and machinery, focusing on performance, durability, and user-friendliness. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in mechanical engineering principles, practical design experience, and a passion for the agricultural sector. You will contribute to the development of solutions that help improve farming efficiency and productivity. This is an excellent opportunity to make a tangible impact on the agricultural industry in the Eastern Cape , working with a company committed to quality and customer success. We are looking for a hands‑on engineer who enjoys bringing innovative ideas to life.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop new agricultural machinery and components using CAD software.
• Modify and improve existing machinery designs to enhance performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct engineering calculations, stress analysis, and simulations to validate designs.
• Create detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Collaborate with production teams to ensure designs are manufacturable and meet quality standards.
• Participate in prototyping, testing, and field trials of new equipment, analyzing performance data.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues and provide technical support to the manufacturing and service departments.
• Research and select appropriate materials and components for rugged agricultural applications.
• Stay informed about advancements in agricultural technology and machinery design.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• A minimum of 3-4 years of experience in mechanical design, preferably with agricultural machinery, heavy equipment, or off‑highway vehicles.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor).
• Experience with structural analysis and basic dynamic simulations.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes common in heavy equipment production (fabrication, machining, hydraulics).
• Knowledge of agricultural practices and machinery is a strong advantage.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and independently.
• Good communication and reporting skills.
• Must be based in or able to commute to Queenstown, Eastern Cape .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and training are provided.
• You will be part of a well‑established company with a strong presence in the agricultural sector.
• The role offers the chance to work on essential equipment that supports local agriculture and contribute to the development of robust machinery.
• Join a supportive team environment in a region with a rich agricultural heritage.