Lead Mechanical Engineer - Industrial Plants

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Life insurance

Bonus potential

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Lead Mechanical Engineer - Industrial Plants to spearhead mechanical design, installation and maintenance across large-scale facilities. You will lead a team of engineers and technicians, ensuring safe, efficient operation of rotating equipment, piping and process systems.

The role requires a BEng in Mechanical Engineering, Pr.Eng is highly desirable, and at least 10 years in heavy industry.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering required.
• Pr.Eng registration highly desirable.
• 10+ years' experience in heavy industrial environments.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership to the mechanical engineering department for industrial plant operations.
• Oversee design, modification and upgrade of mechanical systems including rotating and static equipment.
• Develop maintenance strategies to maximize asset lifespan and minimize downtime.
• Ensure compliance with HSE regulations and industry standards (ASME/API).
• Manage major projects from conception through commissioning within budget and schedule.
• Mentor junior engineers and staff; review technical drawings and calculations.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CAD software

Simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

A prominent player in the petrochemical and heavy industry sector is seeking an experienced and driven Lead Mechanical Engineer - Industrial Plants to spearhead their engineering initiatives in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This senior position requires a strategic thinker with a proven track record in the design, installation, and maintenance of large-scale mechanical systems within industrial facilities. The Lead Mechanical Engineer will be responsible for overseeing a team of engineers and technicians, ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of all mechanical assets. This role demands strong leadership qualities, exceptional technical expertise in plant engineering, and a deep understanding of process equipment and industrial standards. Join a company committed to operational excellence and safety in the heart of Richards Bay's industrial hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership and direction to the mechanical engineering department focused on industrial plant operations.
• Oversee the design, modification, and upgrade of mechanical systems, including rotating equipment, static equipment, piping, and material handling systems.
• Develop and implement preventative and predictive maintenance strategies to maximize asset lifespan and minimize downtime.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations and industry standards (e.g., API, ASME).
• Manage major mechanical projects, from conception through to commissioning, ensuring they are delivered on time and within budget.
• Conduct thorough failure analysis and root cause investigations for mechanical equipment failures.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and project teams to optimize plant performance and efficiency.
• Mentor and develop junior mechanical engineers and technical staff.
• Review and approve technical specifications, drawings, and calculations for mechanical equipment and systems.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and best practices in industrial plant engineering.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in mechanical engineering within heavy industrial environments (e.g., petrochemical, mining, power generation).
• Extensive experience with process equipment such as pumps, compressors, turbines, heat exchangers, and pressure vessels.
• Proven leadership experience managing engineering teams and projects.
• In-depth knowledge of relevant industry codes and standards (ASME, API, ISO).
• Strong understanding of maintenance strategies, reliability engineering principles, and CMMS systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Proficient in relevant engineering software, including CAD and simulation tools.
• Exceptional communication, reporting, and interpersonal skills.
• Must be available to work in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .

Benefits

This role comes with a highly competitive executive salary package, complemented by annual bonuses tied to company and individual performance. Our client offers top-tier medical aid coverage, a substantial provident fund, and life insurance benefits. Extensive opportunities for professional growth, including advanced technical training, leadership development programs, and potential international assignments, are available. The position is based at our state-of-the-art facility in Richards Bay . We foster a culture of safety, innovation, and continuous improvement.