Agricultural Engineer - Mechanization Specialist

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 550,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance incentives

Health benefits

Professional certification support

Pension contributions

Training opportunities

Flexible working arrangements

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Engineer (Mechanization) in Rustenburg to design, implement, and optimize modern farm machinery and automated systems. You will collaborate with R&D teams and farm operators to meet evolving needs in North West agriculture and drive sustainable, efficient mechanization solutions.

The role requires a 6+ year track record in agricultural mechanization, CAD-based design, and hands-on project management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Agricultural or Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of relevant experience in agricultural mechanization, equipment design, or farm machinery management.
• Strong knowledge of agricultural machinery, maintenance, and operating principles.
• Experience with CAD for design and simulation is essential.
• Understanding of automation and control systems in agriculture.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test new agricultural machinery and equipment.
• Evaluate and optimize existing farm equipment for purchase or modification.
• Develop strategies for efficient use and maintenance of farm machinery.
• Oversee installation and integration of automated systems in farming processes.
• Troubleshoot technical issues related to mechanization and safety standards.
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic analyses for mechanization projects.
• Collaborate with suppliers, manufacturers, and researchers on advancements.
• Ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

Skills

CAD software

Automation

Maintenance

Project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Agricultural/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CAD software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural technology firm with operations expanding into Rustenburg , is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Agricultural Engineer specializing in Mechanization. This role is critical for the design, implementation, and optimization of agricultural machinery and systems that enhance efficiency and sustainability in farming practices. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mechanical engineering principles applied to agriculture, including expertise in farm equipment design, automation, and maintenance. You will work closely with research and development teams, as well as farm operators, to ensure that mechanization solutions meet the evolving needs of modern agriculture. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge agricultural advancements and play a key role in shaping the future of farming technology in the North West province and beyond. We are dedicated to fostering a collaborative and forward‑thinking work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test new agricultural machinery and equipment.
• Evaluate and recommend existing farm equipment for purchase, modification, or optimization.
• Develop and implement strategies for the efficient use and maintenance of farm machinery.
• Oversee the installation and integration of automated systems in agricultural processes.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to agricultural mechanization.
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic analyses for proposed mechanization projects.
• Collaborate with suppliers, manufacturers, and research institutions on mechanization advancements.
• Ensure all engineering designs and implementations comply with safety standards and environmental regulations.
• Provide technical training and support to farm staff on the operation and maintenance of machinery.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in agricultural mechanization, equipment design, or farm machinery management.
• In-depth knowledge of various types of agricultural machinery, their operational principles, and maintenance requirements.
• Experience with CAD software for design and simulation.
• Strong understanding of automation and control systems in an agricultural context.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams and external partners.
• Willingness to travel occasionally to project sites within the North West region and beyond.
• Demonstrated ability to innovate and implement practical engineering solutions for agricultural challenges.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package.
• Generous performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional certification.
• Contribution to a pension fund.
• Exposure to innovative agricultural technologies and projects.
• Flexible working arrangements contributing to a positive work-life balance.