Lead Mechanical Design Engineer - HVAC

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Private healthcare coverage

Generous leave allowance

Annual bonus structure

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Mechanical Design Engineer (HVAC) in Durban to head a team delivering sophisticated HVAC solutions for commercial and industrial projects.

The role includes setting design standards, mentoring engineers, and ensuring on-time delivery while driving innovation and sustainable design practices.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• Minimum 8 years in mechanical engineering with 3+ years in HVAC leadership.
• Expert knowledge of HVAC principles, equipment, and software.
• Strong project leadership, communication and mentoring abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization and detailed design of HVAC systems for large projects.
• Mentor and manage engineers and drafters, guiding workload and development.
• Develop design standards, quality procedures and best practices.
• Perform thermal load, airflow, and energy efficiency calculations.
• Review design documents for codes and client specs.
• Collaborate with architects, electrical engineers and PMs for integration.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Revit MEP

HAP

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for an accomplished Lead Mechanical Design Engineer specializing in HVAC systems for their office in Durban . This senior position entails leading a team of engineers and designers in developing sophisticated heating, ventilation, and air conditioning solutions for diverse commercial and industrial projects. You will be instrumental in setting design standards, mentoring team members, and ensuring the successful delivery of complex HVAC installations. This is an exciting opportunity to influence design direction and foster innovation within a respected engineering consultancy.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and detailed design of HVAC systems for large-scale projects.
• Manage and mentor a team of mechanical design engineers and drafters, overseeing their workload and professional development.
• Develop and implement design standards, quality control procedures, and best practices for HVAC engineering.
• Perform complex calculations related to thermal loads, airflow, and energy efficiency.
• Review and approve design documents, ensuring compliance with building codes and client specifications.
• Collaborate effectively with architects, electrical engineers, and project managers to ensure seamless project integration.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in mechanical engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership role focused on HVAC design .
• Expert knowledge of HVAC principles, equipment, and relevant software (e.g., Revit MEP, HAP).
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and lead engineering teams.
• Strong understanding of building physics, energy modeling, and sustainable design principles.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

• Competitive executive salary and annual bonus structure.
• Hybrid work arrangement promoting work-life balance.
• Comprehensive private healthcare coverage.
• Generous leave allowance and paid public holidays.
• Stimulating work environment with opportunities for career advancement and impact.