Senior Mechanical Engineer - Renewable Energy Projects

Placements24; Riverton (UT); On-site; USD 54,000 - 79,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation provided for site work

Travel allowances

Contract extension opportunities

Exposure to renewable energy sector

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer for large-scale renewable energy projects in Upington, Northern Cape. You will oversee mechanical design, integration, and construction of solar and potential wind energy systems, ensuring reliability and compliance with international standards.

The role requires strong project engineering experience, hands-on site support, and collaboration with civil and electrical teams to deliver on project milestones in a challenging field environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum 7 years in mechanical engineering with at least 4 in renewable energy (solar/wind).
• Experience in project engineering or design management for large-scale infrastructure.
• Strong understanding of structural mechanics and materials science as they relate to energy infra.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical engineering aspects for renewable energy projects (solar farms, wind).
• Review and approve mechanical designs, calculations, and specs.
• Ensure compliance with standards and project requirements.
• Oversee procurement, installation, and commissioning of mechanical equipment.
• Collaborate with civil, electrical, and project teams for seamless execution.
• Conduct site inspections and provide technical support during construction.
• Identify and mitigate mechanical risks throughout the lifecycle.
• Prepare technical reports and progress updates for stakeholders.
• Troubleshoot design and installation issues on site.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of mechanical practices.

Skills

Project engineering

CAD software

Simulation software

Analytical problem-solving

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelors or Masters in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CAD software

Simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading developer in sustainable energy infrastructure, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer to contribute to their significant renewable energy projects in the Upington, Northern Cape region. This role is critical for overseeing the mechanical design, integration, and implementation of large‑scale solar and potentially wind energy systems. You will be responsible for ensuring the integrity, efficiency, and reliability of mechanical components and structures throughout the project lifecycle, from initial design to construction and commissioning. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in project engineering within the renewable energy sector, a strong understanding of structural and mechanical principles, and the ability to manage complex technical challenges in a remote, challenging environment. This is a key role contributing to South Africa's green energy transition.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical engineering aspects for renewable energy projects, including solar farms and potential wind installations.
• Review and approve mechanical designs, calculations, and technical specifications.
• Ensure mechanical systems comply with project requirements, industry standards, and regulatory guidelines.
• Oversee the procurement, installation, and commissioning of mechanical equipment and structures.
• Collaborate closely with civil, electrical, and project management teams to ensure seamless project execution.
• Conduct site inspections and provide technical support during the construction phase.
• Identify and mitigate mechanical engineering risks throughout the project lifecycle.
• Prepare technical reports, progress updates, and documentation for project stakeholders.
• Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical design and installation issues encountered on site.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of mechanical engineering practices within the company.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in mechanical engineering, with at least 4 years focused on renewable energy projects (solar, wind).
• Proven experience in project engineering or design management for large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Strong understanding of structural mechanics, materials science, and civil engineering principles related to energy infrastructure.
• Familiarity with relevant international standards (e.g., IEC, ISO) and South African National Standards (SANS).
• Experience with CAD and simulation software is beneficial.
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and decision‑making skills.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills for effective stakeholder management.
• Ability to work effectively in challenging field conditions and potentially remote locations in the Northern Cape.

Benefits

• Competitive contract rate commensurate with experience and project demands.
• Opportunity to work on high‑impact renewable energy projects.
• Significant exposure to the rapidly growing green energy sector in South Africa.
• Accommodation and travel allowances provided for site‑based work.
• Potential for contract extension or further opportunities within the company.
• Work experience in the unique environmental conditions of Upington, Northern Cape, ZA.
• Collaborative team environment focused on sustainable development.