Mechanical Design Engineer - AgriTech Solutions

Placements24; Graafwater; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Annual leave

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer for its agri-tech client in Paarl, Western Cape. This hands-on role focuses on designing mechanical systems for advanced agricultural machinery and automation, with collaboration across engineering disciplines.

You will develop 3D models, generate drawings and BOMs, run simulations, test prototypes, and push for manufacturability and durability in harsh farming environments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 4 years of mechanical design experience, preferably in machinery or agricultural equipment.
• Proficient in 3D CAD and engineering simulation tools (FEA).
• Strong understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, and DFM.

Responsibilities

• Design new mechanical components and systems for agricultural machinery using CAD.
• Create detailed drawings, schematics, and BOMs for manufacturing.
• Perform stress, fatigue, and motion analysis to verify designs.
• Collaborate with electrical, software, and agronomy teams to integrate systems.
• Build and test prototypes, iterate designs based on results.
• Ensure designs meet safety and environmental regulations.
• Improve manufacturability, durability, and cost-effectiveness.

Skills

Mechanical design experience

3D CAD proficiency

FEA simulation

DFM (design for manufacturability)

Problem-solving

Teamwork / communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Fusion 360

FEA software (ANSYS)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly growing company at the forefront of Agricultural Technology (AgriTech), is seeking a talented Mechanical Design Engineer to join their innovative product development team. This role focuses on designing and developing mechanical systems for advanced agricultural machinery and automation solutions. You will contribute to creating cutting-edge products that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and productivity in the agricultural sector. This is a hands-on role requiring creativity, strong engineering fundamentals, and a passion for technology. The position is located in Paarl, Western Cape, ZA , and necessitates full-time on-site presence for team collaboration and access to prototyping facilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop new mechanical components and systems for agricultural machinery and automation equipment using CAD software.
• Create detailed engineering drawings, schematics, and Bills of Materials (BOMs) for manufacturing.
• Perform mechanical analysis, including stress, fatigue, and motion analysis, to ensure design reliability and performance.
• Collaborate with electrical engineers, software developers, and agronomists to integrate mechanical designs with other system components.
• Build and test prototypes, conduct performance evaluations, and iterate on designs based on feedback and test results.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues during development and in existing product lines.
• Optimize designs for manufacturability, cost-effectiveness, and durability in harsh agricultural environments.
• Research and evaluate new materials and manufacturing technologies suitable for AgriTech applications.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant safety standards and environmental regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 4 years of experience in mechanical design and engineering, preferably with exposure to machinery or agricultural equipment.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360).
• Experience with engineering simulation tools (FEA) for stress and vibration analysis.
• Good understanding of material properties, manufacturing processes (e.g., machining, fabrication, injection molding), and design for manufacturability (DFM).
• Familiarity with agricultural practices and equipment is a strong advantage.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, innovative environment.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa .

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance incentives.
• Medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Generous annual leave and company holidays.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development within the AgriTech sector.
• Chance to work on impactful technologies that promote sustainable agriculture.
• Dynamic and collaborative team environment.