Junior Mechanical Designer / Mechanical Engineer - Centurion

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

Job summary

A leading company in the defence industry seeks a Junior Mechanical Designer to support the design of land-based defence systems. This position offers hands-on experience with mechanical systems and an opportunity to grow within a regulated engineering environment. Responsibilities include generating technical drawings and collaborating with design engineers. Ideal candidates will have a degree in Mechanical Engineering and proficiency in CAD design tools like Autodesk Inventor, along with strong problem-solving and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering; strong CAD skills, especially in Autodesk Inventor.
• Good understanding of mechanical systems, particularly vehicle applications.
• Technical drawing skills and ability to interpret schematics.

Responsibilities

• Generate detailed 2D and 3D technical drawings based on design specifications.
• Collaborate with design engineers for technical accuracy.
• Ensure compliance with defence industry standards.

Skills

Attention to Detail

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering

85% average in matric

Tools

Autodesk Inventor

Job description

My client, a well-established international company in the defence industry, is looking for a driven and detail-oriented Junior Mechanical Designer to join their team.

Position Info:

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 creating high-performance mechanical components that are critical for 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:

• Generate detailed 2D and 3D technical drawings based on design specifications.
• Use Autodesk Inventor for CAD modelling, designing, modifying, and updating mechanical parts and systems.
• Collaborate with design engineers to ensure technical accuracy and alignment with performance requirements.
• Update and refine technical drawings based on feedback from engineers, testing teams, and manufacturing.
• Maintain up-to-date documentation and version control of drawings and related files.
• Provide clear, manufacturing-ready technical drawings that meet quality standards, with knowledge of fabrication techniques such as welding, machining, and sheet metal work.
• Ensure compliance with defence industry standards and military specifications.
• Specify materials, dimensions, and tolerances for manufacturing and assembly.
• Assist senior draughtsmen and design engineers throughout the design process.
• Contribute to project planning, tracking, and delivery, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and technical goals.

Required Skills and Competencies:

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering with an average of 85% in matric.
• Proficiency in CAD design, preferably Autodesk Inventor.
• Good understanding of mechanical systems, especially in vehicle applications.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and schematics accurately.
• High attention to detail and strong technical drawing skills.
• Problem-solving skills related to mechanical fit, manufacturability, and assembly.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for effective collaboration.

Experience and Background:

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

Additional Information:

• Must have reliable transport.
• Immediate start preferred.
• Age range: 23–28 years.
• Remuneration: Market-related, based on qualifications and experience.

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