Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Mining Equipment

Placements24; Riverton (UT); On-site; USD 45,000 - 67,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Performance bonuses

Health insurance and retirement plans

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Our client, a world-renowned leader in the design and manufacturing of heavy-duty mining equipment, seeks a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for the Upington, Northern Cape facility. Lead design projects, develop robust mechanical systems, and ensure durability, safety, and efficiency for underground and surface mining equipment.

You will create 3D CAD models, perform advanced simulations, and mentor engineers while collaborating with hydraulics, electrical, and manufacturing teams on-site.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• 9+ years of progressive experience in mechanical design engineering, with heavy mobile equipment experience.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA) and advanced CAE tools for simulations.
• Knowledge of materials science, fatigue analysis, tribology, and mechanics of materials as applied to heavy equipment.
• Experience designing for harsh environments, high loads, and extreme temperatures.
• Strong leadership, project management, and communication skills.
• Ability to work in demanding, on-site engineering environments.
• Experience with Upington, Northern Cape or similar mining regions is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of large-scale mining equipment (excavators, drills, haul trucks, conveyors).
• Create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings using SolidWorks/CATIA.
• Perform structural, fatigue, thermal, and dynamic analyses to validate designs.
• Collaborate with hydraulics, electrical, and controls teams and with manufacturing and service departments.
• Oversee prototype builds, testing, and validation; implement design improvements.
• Specify materials and components for extreme environments; ensure safety and durability.
• Ensure designs comply with MSHA and mining industry standards.
• Mentor junior engineers and drive technical excellence.
• Resolve field issues related to mechanical performance and durability.
• Drive innovation through new concepts and technologies.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Team mentoring

Problem solving

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

CAE tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a world-renowned leader in the design and manufacturing of heavy-duty mining equipment, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for their facility in Upington, Northern Cape . This critical role involves the design, development, and optimization of robust mechanical systems for underground and surface mining operations. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of mechanical engineering principles, advanced CAD/CAE skills, and extensive experience with complex machinery operating in harsh environments. You will be responsible for leading design projects, ensuring the highest standards of durability, safety, and efficiency, and contributing to the innovation of next-generation mining solutions. This is an on-site position requiring full commitment to the operational hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of large-scale mining equipment, including excavators, drills, haul trucks, and conveyor systems.
• Create detailed 3D CAD models, complex assemblies, and precise 2D manufacturing drawings using advanced software packages (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA).
• Perform advanced engineering analyses, including structural integrity, fatigue life, thermal, and dynamic simulations, to validate designs under extreme conditions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including hydraulics, electrical, and controls engineers, as well as manufacturing and service departments, to ensure integrated and manufacturable designs.
• Oversee prototype build, testing, and validation processes, analyzing performance data and implementing design improvements.
• Specify materials and components suitable for extreme operating environments, considering wear resistance, strength, and durability.
• Ensure designs comply with stringent safety regulations (e.g., MSHA) and industry standards applicable to mining equipment.
• Mentor and guide junior mechanical engineers, fostering technical expertise and problem-solving skills within the team.
• Investigate and resolve field issues related to mechanical performance and durability.
• Drive innovation by exploring new design concepts, materials, and technologies for enhanced equipment performance and reliability.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 9 years of progressive experience in mechanical design engineering, with a strong specialization in heavy mobile equipment, particularly mining machinery.
• Expert proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA, or similar) and advanced CAE tools for complex simulations.
• In-depth knowledge of material science, fatigue analysis, tribology, and mechanics of materials as applied to heavy equipment.
• Proven experience in designing for harsh environments, high loads, and extreme temperatures.
• Strong leadership, project management, and excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a demanding, on-site engineering environment.
• Experience with or understanding of the operational context in Upington, Northern Cape or similar mining regions is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive salary, performance bonuses, comprehensive health insurance, and robust retirement savings plans.
• This role presents exceptional opportunities for career advancement and professional growth within a global leader in mining technology.
• Employees will benefit from working with cutting-edge technology and a highly skilled, collaborative team.
• The position is based in Upington, Northern Cape , offering direct involvement in critical industrial operations.
• Additional benefits include generous annual leave, relocation assistance for qualified candidates, and extensive training programs.
• Our client is committed to providing a safe, challenging, and rewarding work experience.