Lead Mechanical Design Engineer - Geotechnical Equipment

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement plan

Leadership growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Mechanical Design Engineer for a specialist geotechnical and exploration equipment manufacturer in Kimberley, Northern Cape. The role centers on leading the design of heavy mechanical systems, guiding a team of engineers, and delivering robust field-ready solutions.

You will oversee CAD/FEA workflows, collaborate with electrical and software engineers, review drawings, and mentor staff while staying current with materials science and fabrication techniques for

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• Minimum of 9 years in mechanical design, heavy machinery or ruggedized systems.
• Experience in a lead or supervisory engineering role.
• Proficiency with 3D CAD (Inventor, SolidWorks) and FEA/CFD tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of geotechnical/exploration equipment from concept to production.
• Oversee mechanical design processes, ensuring safety and timelines.
• Mentor a team of mechanical engineers and drive innovation.
• Use CAD/FEA/CFD to optimize strength, durability, and performance.
• Collaborate with electrical, hydraulic, and software engineers to integrate systems.
• Prepare detailed drawings, BOMs, and manufacturing docs.
• Conduct design reviews and prototype testing; implement improvements.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Inventor

SolidWorks

FEA

CFD

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a specialist manufacturer of advanced geotechnical and exploration equipment, seeking a dynamic Lead Mechanical Design Engineer for their facility in Kimberley, Northern Cape . This leadership position involves conceptualizing, designing, and developing high-performance mechanical systems and specialized equipment used in demanding field environments. You will guide a team of engineers, manage project timelines, and ensure the innovative application of mechanical engineering principles to create robust and reliable solutions. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in designing complex machinery, possess strong leadership qualities, and a thorough understanding of materials science and fabrication techniques relevant to harsh operating conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of new geotechnical and exploration equipment from concept to production.
• Oversee the mechanical design process, ensuring adherence to performance specifications, safety standards, and project timelines.
• Manage and mentor a team of mechanical design engineers, providing technical guidance and fostering innovation.
• Utilize advanced CAD software and simulation tools (FEA, CFD) to optimize designs for strength, durability, and performance.
• Collaborate with electrical, hydraulic, and software engineers to integrate complex systems.
• Develop detailed engineering drawings, BOMs, and manufacturing documentation.
• Conduct design reviews and prototype testing, troubleshooting issues and implementing necessary modifications.
• Stay current with technological advancements in materials, manufacturing, and mechanical design relevant to the industry.
• Manage external vendor relationships for component sourcing and manufacturing.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 9 years of experience in mechanical design, with a strong emphasis on heavy machinery, specialized equipment, or ruggedized systems.
• Proven experience in a lead or supervisory engineering role.
• Expertise in 3D CAD software (e.g., Inventor, SolidWorks) and FEA analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of material science, stress analysis, fatigue, vibration, and thermal management.
• Experience with hydraulic and electromechanical systems.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively lead teams and interact with stakeholders.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Attractive remuneration package with performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid, retirement savings plan, and other corporate benefits.
• Significant opportunities for leadership growth and professional development.
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge equipment designs in a specialized niche market in Kimberley, Northern Cape .
• Supportive and dynamic work environment.