Lead Mechanical Engineer - Offshore Design & Mentorship

University of Fort Hare; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 520,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Fort Hare is seeking a motivated Mechanical Engineer to join our Western Cape operation, focusing on design, integrity and performance of critical offshore drilling equipment. The role emphasizes in-house design, strength calculations, FEA/Simulation, and 3D CAD modelling using SolidWorks.

You will oversee projects, mentor junior engineers, ensure compliance with codes and QC procedures, and deliver technical reports to management and clients.

Qualifications

• BSc Eng / Beng in Mechanical Engineering with 3+ years’ experience in a relatable engineering environment.
• Valid passport or able to apply.
• Excellent MS Office (incl Teams & report writing) ability and high level of English, both written and verbal.
• SolidWorks preferred; FEA software (SolidWorks/Abaqus) preferred; and Engineering Calculations Software (Mathcad, MATLAB or similar).
• Exposure to ASME VIII, API and Class Rules (ABS & DNV) advantageous.
• Sound understanding of fabrication, boiler making / welding, precision machining.
• Design experience in essential as role is predominantly design based.

Responsibilities

• Oversee multiple projects, including your own and provide guidance.
• Mentor junior mechanical engineers and technicians.
• Gain a fundamental understanding of the design, operation, inspection and repair of Capital Drilling Equipment as well as all the processes, procedures, etc. of the Company.
• Conduct in-house design and development, including strength calculations and FEA/Simulation, 3D CAD modelling and drawing using SolidWorks, BOMs, QCPs, Works Instructions, Manuals.
• Manage design and development projects from inception through delivery, ensuring adherence to policies and procedures.
• Provide expert technical advice to technicians and coach new technicians.
• Monitor compliance to applicable codes, QC policies, procedures, and specifications.
• Prepare detailed reporting and inspection reviews; communicate progress to Management and customers.
• Review engineering deliverables and draft corrective actions; update procedures as needed.
• Ensure safe work practices at all times.

Skills

3D CAD

FEA

Engineering calculations

Mentoring

English communication

Education

BSc Eng / Beng in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Abaqus

Mathcad

MATLAB

Job description

University of Fort Hare is seeking a motivated Mechanical Engineer to join our Western Cape operation, focusing on design, integrity and performance of critical offshore drilling equipment. The role emphasizes in-house design, strength calculations, FEA/Simulation, and 3D CAD modelling using SolidWorks.

You will oversee projects, mentor junior engineers, ensure compliance with codes and QC procedures, and deliver technical reports to management and clients.