Junior Mechanical Engineer - Product Development

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Mentorship

Professional development

Paid time off

Company events

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Junior Mechanical Engineer for our client in Mahikeng, North West. The role offers hands-on experience in product development, design, and testing, working with senior engineers on innovative projects under a hybrid model.

This entry-level position suits recent graduates with a mechanical background, strong CAD skills, and a proactive mindset. You'll contribute to design reviews, prototype testing, and documentation while growing through mentorship and on-site

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 0-2 years of relevant experience in mechanical design or product development (internships count).
• Proficiency in at least one 3D CAD software package (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor).
• Basic understanding of mechanical design principles, materials science, and manufacturing processes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Eagerness to learn and adapt to new challenges.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Familiarity with basic FEA principles is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and development of mechanical components and systems using CAD software.
• Prepare 3D models, 2D drawings, and Bill of Materials (BOMs) under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Participate in design reviews and provide input based on academic knowledge and emerging skills.
• Support the building and testing of prototypes, documenting results and observations.
• Conduct basic engineering calculations and simulations (e.g., stress analysis) as required.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and quality teams to ensure design feasibility and adherence to standards.
• Research and evaluate new materials, components, and technologies for potential application.
• Help troubleshoot design‑related issues and contribute to problem‑solving efforts.
• Maintain organized project documentation and engineering records.

Skills

3D CAD

Analytical thinking

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking manufacturing company specializing in innovative industrial components, is seeking an enthusiastic Junior Mechanical Engineer to join their vibrant team in Mahikeng, North West . This role is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career engineer to gain hands‑on experience in product development, design, and testing. You will work closely with senior engineers, contributing to the design of new products and the improvement of existing ones. The ideal candidate will possess a strong academic background in mechanical engineering, a keen interest in product design, and a proactive attitude towards learning and problem-solving. This position offers the chance to grow within a supportive environment and make tangible contributions to cutting‑edge projects. The role operates under a Hybrid work model, balancing essential on‑site collaboration in Mahikeng with remote work flexibility, supporting both team synergy and individual focus.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and development of mechanical components and systems using CAD software.
• Prepare 3D models, 2D drawings, and Bill of Materials (BOMs) under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Participate in design reviews and provide input based on academic knowledge and emerging skills.
• Support the building and testing of prototypes, documenting results and observations.
• Conduct basic engineering calculations and simulations (e.g., stress analysis) as required.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and quality teams to ensure design feasibility and adherence to standards.
• Research and evaluate new materials, components, and technologies for potential application.
• Help troubleshoot design‑related issues and contribute to problem‑solving efforts.
• Maintain organized project documentation and engineering records.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 0-2 years of relevant experience in mechanical design or product development (internships count).
• Proficiency in at least one 3D CAD software package (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor).
• Basic understanding of mechanical design principles, materials science, and manufacturing processes.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Eagerness to learn and adapt to new challenges.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Familiarity with basic FEA principles is a plus.
• Enthusiasm for product development and innovation.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive entry‑level salary, along with essential benefits such as medical aid and retirement savings contributions. The Hybrid work arrangement in Mahikeng, North West provides a structured yet flexible approach to starting your engineering career. Employees will receive extensive mentorship and training from experienced engineers, with ample opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement. You will be part of a dynamic company that values new ideas and employee growth. Additional benefits include paid time off and participation in team projects and company events. We are committed to nurturing talent and providing a strong foundation for a successful career in mechanical engineering within the developing industrial landscape of Mahikeng .