Graduate / Student - Mechanical Engineer - Centurion

JenRec Recruitment; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking a junior designer to support the development of land-based defence systems in Johannesburg. The ideal candidate will have a Mechanical Engineering Degree and experience with CAD tools, specifically Autodesk Inventor. Responsibilities include generating 2D and 3D drawings, collaborating with design teams, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. This position offers growth within a high-tech engineering environment and requires strong attention to detail and communication skills. An immediate start is preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering is required.
• CAD design proficiency, especially in Autodesk Inventor, is essential.
• Good mechanical systems knowledge within vehicle applications is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Generate detailed technical drawings for components and assemblies.
• Design and modify mechanical parts using CAD software.
• Collaborate with engineers for technical accuracy on designs.
• Update drawings based on feedback from testing and manufacturing.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering Degree

Proficiency in CAD design

Understanding of mechanical systems

Ability to interpret engineering drawings

Attention to detail

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Education

Mechanical Engineering Degree and Matric average of 85%

Tools

Autodesk Inventor

Job description

This role supports the design and development of land-based defence systems, including armoured vehicles and advanced mechanical subsystems. The successful candidate will contribute to the creation of high-performance mechanical components that play a critical role in operational effectiveness and mission success.

This position offers hands‑on experience with complex mechanical systems and is an excellent opportunity for a junior designer to grow within a high‑tech, regulated engineering environment.

Key Responsibilities

• 2D and 3D Technical Drawings: Generate detailed component and assembly drawings based on design specifications.
• CAD Modelling: Use Autodesk Inventor to design, modify, and update mechanical parts and systems.
• Cross‑functional Collaboration: Work closely with design engineers to ensure technical accuracy and alignment with performance requirements.
• Drawing Revisions: Update and refine technical drawings based on feedback from engineers, testing teams, and manufacturing.
• Documentation Management: Ensure all drawings and related documentation are up to date and version‑controlled.
• Manufacturing Support: Provide clear and production‑ready technical drawings that meet manufacturing and quality standards, with knowledge of fabrication techniques (welding, machining, sheet metal work).
• Compliance: Adhere to defence industry standards and applicable military specifications and regulatory requirements.
• Material & Tolerances: Specify materials, dimensions, and tolerances for manufacturing and assembly.
• Team Support: Assist senior draughtsmen and design engineers throughout the design lifecycle.
• Project Support: Contribute to project planning, tracking, and delivery, ensuring compliance with timelines, budgets, and technical objectives.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Mechanical Engineering Degree and Matric average of 85%
• Proficiency in CAD design (Autodesk Inventor preferred).
• Good understanding of mechanical systems, especially within vehicle applications.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and schematics accurately.
• High attention to detail with strong technical drawing skills.
• Problem‑solving skills related to mechanical fit, manufacturability, and assembly.
• Strong written and verbal communication for collaboration with engineering and manufacturing teams.

Experience and Background

• Technical knowledge and hands‑on design experience.
• Industry experience in armoured vehicle, defence, or heavy machinery design is advantageous.

Additional Information

• Must have own reliable transport.
• Availability: Immediate start preferred.
• Remuneration: Market‑related, based on qualifications and experience.

This is an excellent opportunity for a junior professional looking to gain exposure to cutting‑edge mechanical design in a defence‑focused environment. If you’re passionate about engineering, eager to learn, and ready to work in a highly technical and rewarding field, this role could be the ideal next step.