Mechanical Design and Estimation Engineer

Talent Genie AI Recruitment Software; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 558,000 - 781,200; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment software company in Gauteng is seeking a Mechanical Design and Estimation Engineer to deliver designs and cost estimates for MEP/EPC projects. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of experience, a B. Engineering Mechanical degree, and proficiency in HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection systems. This full-time position requires strong technical expertise and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Qualifications

• 5 years' experience in design/estimation.
• Strong understanding of engineering standards and relevant international codes.
• Operational experience with mechanical systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed designs and prepare cost estimates for mechanical systems.
• Perform load calculations and equipment sizing.
• Coordinate designs with other disciplines to eliminate clashes.

Skills

Mechanical Design

Cost Estimation

HVAC Systems

Plumbing Systems

Fire Protection

Technical Documentation

Education

B. Engineering Mechanical degree or equivalent

Registration with ECSA as Pr. Eng.

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit MEP

HAP

Job description

Mechanical Design and Estimation Engineer

We are seeking a Mechanical Design & Estimation Engineer to join our Estimation Department. The role includes developing detailed designs and preparing accurate cost estimates for mechanical systems in MEP/EPC projects, such as HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, and other related mechanical systems. The role requires combining strong technical expertise in mechanical engineering with the ability to deliver competitive, compliant, and cost-effective tender submissions.

Key Accountabilities

• Read carefully the project's specifications, identify relevant codes and standards (e.g., SANS, ASHRAE, ISO, NFPA) to understand design inputs and ensure conformity to requirements.
• Plan and prioritise own work to deliver outputs on time, in accordance with supervisor's guidance.
• Perform load calculations, equipment sizing, and detailed design for HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, and related mechanical systems.
• Model designs, prepare calculation notes, and develop detailed designs according to related design manuals and predefined concepts, ensuring accurate, timely, and well-presented deliverables.
• Ensure designs are coordinated with other disciplines (electrical, civil, structural) to eliminate clashes.
• Prepare and update materials take-offs, ensuring design quantities and specifications stay within the allocated project budget.
• Prepare and review technical drawings, schematics, and as-built documentation; develop as-built drawings for executed works; and prepare Operation & Maintenance (O&M) manuals while supporting project teams with technical inputs during execution.
• Communicate professionally through internal correspondence, reports, and meetings, coordinating with relevant departments to provide technical support or receive direction.
• Conduct internal presentations on technical subjects to enhance presentation skills and share knowledge with colleagues.
• Support other departments and guide CAD operators to ensure delivery of high-quality outputs.
• Perform QA/QC activities on own and peers' designs to detect and resolve discrepancies, while applying lessons learned to improve skills.
• Review tender documents to understand project type and scope, and discuss requirements with the estimation team to ensure conformity during the estimation process.
• Prepare preliminary designs or pre-dimensioning for bids on time, ensuring compliance with tender requirements.
• Prepare detailed BOQs to confirm project quantities for pricing.
• Request and evaluate supplier quotations with procurement, analyse for compliance, and recommend suitable options.
• Collaborate with relevant departments to compile the complete project offer, ensuring all technical, financial, and commercial aspects are integrated and aligned with tender requirements and company standards before submission.

Qualifications, Experience And Skills

• B. Engineering Mechanical degree or equivalent.
• Registration with ECSA as Pr. Eng.
• 5 years' experience in design/estimation.
• Strong understanding of engineering standards, including SANS and relevant international codes (ASHRAE, NFPA, ISO).
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting mechanical design drawings and schematics, with a solid understanding of core mechanical engineering principles and systems.
• Operational experience with HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, and related mechanical systems.
• Experience with design and estimation software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit MEP, HAP, or equivalent).
• Exposure to procurement, supplier evaluation, and cost analysis processes.
• Familiarity with contract forms such as FIDIC, JBCC, and NEC is advantageous.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, both verbal and written.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy, efficiency, quality and safety.

Competencies

• Strong planning, organisational, and analytical skills.
• Clear communication and ability to present technical clarifications to clients and stakeholders during tender stages.
• Ability to interact professionally with clients, consultants, and stakeholders during site visits, tender clarifications, and technical meetings.
• Strong negotiation and evaluation skills with suppliers and subcontractors to ensure competitive and compliant quotations.
• Commercial awareness and ability to balance technical requirements against cost, risk, and project profitability.
• Proven ability to manage multiple tenders and deliverables under strict deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and within cross-disciplinary teams.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy, efficiency, and quality.
• Commitment to workplace safety and OHSA compliance.

Seniority level

• Associate

Employment type

• Full-time