Mechanical Design Engineer - Fluid Systems

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 520,000 - 760,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Life insurance

Professional development opportunities

Access to advanced design tools

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Mechanical Design Engineer with expertise in fluid systems in Vereeniging, Gauteng. You will design, simulate, and optimize hydraulic/pneumatic components, create detailed CAD models and drawings, and oversee prototype testing to ensure performance and reliability.

The role requires a solid mechanical engineering foundation, fluency in CAD tools, and strong problem-solving skills to deliver innovative fluid power solutions within a collaborative team.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or closely related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in mechanical design, with hydraulics/pneumatics focus.
• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, Inventor) and fluid simulation tools.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components for hydraulic/pneumatic systems.
• Create detailed 3D models, assemblies, and 2D drawings.
• Conduct fluid dynamics simulations and stress analyses.
• Select pumps, valves, actuators, and seals based on requirements.
• Collaborate with electrical and controls engineers to integrate systems.
• Develop and execute test plans for fluid systems and analyze results.
• Prepare design reports and BOMs, ensuring standards compliance.

Skills

Fluid power design

CAD modeling

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

Fluid simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer of specialized industrial equipment, is seeking a dedicated Mechanical Design Engineer with expertise in fluid systems to join their team in Vereeniging, Gauteng. This role is critical in designing, developing, and optimizing systems involving hydraulics, pneumatics, and other fluid power applications. You will be responsible for conceptualizing innovative solutions, creating detailed designs using CAD, performing simulations, and overseeing prototype testing. This position offers a hands‑on opportunity to work with advanced technologies and contribute directly to the performance and efficiency of our products. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in mechanical engineering, specific knowledge of fluid dynamics, and excellent problem‑solving skills. Join our team in Vereeniging and help drive innovation in fluid power technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and systems for hydraulic and pneumatic applications.
• Create detailed 3D models, assemblies, and 2D manufacturing drawings using CAD software.
• Perform fluid dynamic simulations and stress analysis to ensure design integrity and performance.
• Select appropriate components such as pumps, valves, actuators, and seals based on system requirements.
• Collaborate with electrical and controls engineers to integrate fluid power systems into larger machinery.
• Develop and execute test plans for fluid systems, analyze results, and recommend design improvements.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to fluid system performance, leaks, or efficiency.
• Prepare technical documentation, including design reports, BOMs, and operating manuals.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant industry standards and safety regulations for fluid power systems.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in fluid power technology and components.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in mechanical design, with a specialization in hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor) and experience with fluid simulation tools.
• Solid understanding of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and control principles related to fluid power.
• Experience with component selection, system design, and troubleshooting of fluid power circuits.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Familiarity with relevant industry standards (e.g., NFPA, ISO).
• Detail-oriented approach to design and documentation.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-based environment at our Vereeniging, Gauteng location.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of R .
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge fluid power systems.
• Medical aid, retirement fund, and life insurance benefits.
• Access to advanced design and simulation tools.
• Professional development opportunities and training programs.
• A collaborative and supportive engineering culture in Vereeniging.
• Paid vacation and company holidays.
• Potential for project-based bonuses.