Lead Mechanical Engineer - HVAC Systems Design

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement planning

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Leader Mechanical Engineer in Cape Town to drive the design and delivery of advanced HVAC systems. You will guide a team from concept through implementation, applying thermo-fluid expertise and sustainability principles to maximize building efficiency and occupant comfort.

The role requires 8+ years in HVAC design, strong leadership, and hands-on CAD proficiency (AutoCAD MEP, Revit MEP).

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering required.
• 8+ years of progressive HVAC system design experience.
• Experience leading engineering teams and projects.
• Proficiency with CAD tools (AutoCAD MEP, Revit MEP).

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and optimization of complex HVAC systems for commercial/industrial use.
• Mentor and manage a team of mechanical engineers.
• Oversee detailed drawings and schematics in CAD software (AutoCAD MEP, Revit MEP).
• Perform thermal load calculations and energy modeling to improve efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with building codes and client specs.
• Coordinate with architects, electrical engineers, and construction teams to execute projects.
• Conduct site visits for data gathering and on-site support during installation/commissioning.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Team mentoring

HVAC design

Energy modeling

Thermodynamics

Heat transfer

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD MEP

Revit MEP

CAD software

Job description

Our client is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Lead Mechanical Engineer to spearhead the design and development of advanced HVAC systems. Based in the vibrant city of Cape Town, Western Cape , this senior role offers the chance to work on innovative projects that impact building efficiency and occupant comfort on a large scale. You will lead a team of talented engineers, guiding them through the entire design lifecycle from conceptualization to final implementation. This position demands a deep understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and mechanical system integration. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership qualities, excellent project management skills, and a passion for creating sustainable and high-performance engineering solutions. You will be responsible for ensuring that all designs meet rigorous quality standards, regulatory requirements, and client specifications. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a significant contribution to the built environment and advance your career in a reputable organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of complex HVAC systems for commercial and industrial applications.
• Manage and mentor a team of mechanical engineers, providing technical guidance and fostering professional development.
• Oversee the creation of detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and schematics using CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD MEP, Revit MEP).
• Conduct comprehensive performance simulations and analyses, including thermal load calculations and energy efficiency modeling.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant building codes, industry standards, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate effectively with architects, electrical engineers, project managers, and construction teams to ensure successful project execution.
• Perform site visits and technical assessments to gather data and provide on-site support during installation and commissioning phases.
• Develop and manage project budgets and timelines for HVAC design elements.
• Troubleshoot and resolve design-related issues that may arise during the project lifecycle.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and best practices in HVAC design and sustainable building solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in mechanical engineering, with a strong specialization in HVAC system design.
• Proven experience in a lead or supervisory role, managing engineering teams.
• Expertise in CAD software like AutoCAD MEP, Revit MEP, or similar, and HVAC design tools.
• Solid understanding of thermodynamics, psychrometrics, fluid dynamics, and heat transfer principles.
• Demonstrated experience with energy modeling and simulation software.
• In-depth knowledge of local and international building codes and HVAC standards (e.g., SANS, ASHRAE).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Experience with sustainable design principles and green building certifications is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including an attractive annual salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits scheme covering medical aid and retirement planning. Opportunities for continuous professional development, including advanced training and conference attendance, are readily available. The company values its employees and provides a supportive work environment that encourages innovation and collaboration. This role offers significant career growth potential within a leading engineering consultancy.