Lead Mechanical Engineer - Renewable Energy Systems

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings plan

Paid time off & professional dev

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Lead Mechanical Engineer to spearhead the design and development of renewable energy systems. You will lead a team of engineers, drive design quality, and ensure robust engineering integrity across wind, solar, and energy storage projects.

The role emphasizes collaboration with electrical engineers and project managers, with opportunities to shape technology roadmaps and implement best practices in CAD/CAE, testing, prototyping, and commissioning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in mechanical engineering, with leadership exposure.
• Proven experience in designing complex mechanical systems, preferably in renewable energy (wind, solar, energy storage).

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design for new renewable energy technologies and systems.
• Mentor and manage a team of engineers, providing technical direction and performance feedback.
• Refine mechanical designs using CAD/CAE software (SolidWorks, Inventor, ANSYS) for efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Perform detailed structural, thermal, and dynamic analyses to validate designs.
• Oversee prototyping, testing, and commissioning of mechanical systems.
• Collaborate with electrical engineers, project managers, and supply chain teams for integrated performance.
• Establish and enforce engineering best practices, standards, and QC procedures.
• Engage with suppliers, research institutions, and regulatory bodies.
• Contribute to the strategic direction and technology roadmap for renewable portfolio.

Skills

Leadership

CAD/CAE

Wind energy

Project management

Team mentoring

Structural analysis

Thermodynamics

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering

Master's preferred

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

ANSYS

Abaqus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in the renewable energy sector, is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer to spearhead the design and development of innovative energy systems in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This senior position requires a visionary engineer with extensive experience in complex mechanical systems, particularly within wind, solar, or energy storage technologies. You will be responsible for leading a team of mechanical engineers, overseeing design processes, ensuring the highest standards of engineering integrity, and driving the successful execution of large-scale renewable energy projects. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant contribution to sustainable energy solutions and shape the future of the industry in Durban .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and engineering efforts for new renewable energy technologies and systems.


• Manage and mentor a team of mechanical engineers, providing technical direction, project oversight, and performance feedback.


• Develop and refine mechanical designs using advanced CAD/CAE software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, ANSYS), focusing on efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.


• Conduct detailed structural, thermal, and dynamic analyses to validate designs under demanding operational conditions.


• Oversee the prototyping, testing, and commissioning phases of mechanical systems.


• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including electrical engineers, project managers, and supply chain specialists to ensure integrated system performance.


• Establish and enforce mechanical engineering best practices, design standards, and quality control procedures.


• Engage with external stakeholders, including suppliers, research institutions, and regulatory bodies.


• Contribute to the strategic direction and technology roadmap for the company's renewable energy portfolio.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited institution.


• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in mechanical engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership or lead engineer role.


• Proven experience in the design and development of complex mechanical systems, preferably in the renewable energy sector (wind turbines, solar arrays, energy storage).


• Proficiency in industry-standard CAD/CAE software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, ANSYS, Abaqus).


• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, material science, and structural analysis.


• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage engineering teams and projects effectively.


• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.


• Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.


• Knowledge of relevant industry codes, standards, and regulations.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, including performance-based bonuses and comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.


• A robust retirement savings plan, generous paid time off, and opportunities for continuous professional development are also provided.


• This role is based in our modern facility in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal , offering a stimulating work environment focused on innovation and sustainability.


• Join a company committed to making a tangible difference in the global energy landscape.