Lead Mechanical Engineer - Industrial Plants

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Medical aid coverage

Provident fund

Life insurance

Training & international assignments

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay seeks a Lead Mechanical Engineer - Industrial Plants to drive design, installation and maintenance of large-scale mechanical systems in a heavy industry setting. You will lead engineers and technicians, ensuring safe, reliable plant operation.

The role requires strong leadership, expertise in process equipment, API/ASME standards, CMMS knowledge, and a track record in major projects from conception to commissioning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Pr.Eng registration is highly desirable.
• 10+ years in mechanical engineering within heavy industrial environments.
• Experience with process equipment (pumps, compressors, turbines, heat exchangers, pressure vessels).
• Leadership experience managing teams and projects.
• Knowledge of ASME/API/ISO codes and maintenance/reliability principles.
• Proficient in CAD and simulation software; strong communication and reporting skills.
• Must be able to work in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership to the mechanical engineering department for industrial plant operations.
• Oversee design, modification and upgrades of mechanical systems, including rotating and static equipment.
• Develop and implement preventative and predictive maintenance strategies.
• Ensure compliance with HSE regulations and industry standards (API, ASME).
• Manage major mechanical projects from conception to commissioning within budget and schedule.
• Conduct root cause analysis for equipment failures and drive improvements.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance and projects teams to optimize plant performance.
• Mentor junior engineers and technical staff; review technical specs and drawings.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Maintenance planning

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CAD

Simulation tools

CMMS

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.