About the Role
Our client, a global leader in the design and manufacturing of heavy industrial machinery, is looking for a skilled Mechanical Design Engineer to join their expanding team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is critical for the development of robust and reliable machinery used across various demanding industries, including mining, construction, and energy. The successful candidate will be responsible for the end-to-end mechanical design process, from conceptualization through to detailed design, manufacturing support, and product lifecycle management. This position requires a deep understanding of structural mechanics, material selection, and manufacturing processes relevant to large-scale industrial equipment. You will work within a highly skilled engineering department, contributing to projects that are vital to global infrastructure development. This is a hands-on, on-site role based in the industrial hub of Richards Bay, offering a challenging and rewarding career path.
Key Responsibilities
- Conceptualize, design, and detail complex mechanical systems and components for heavy industrial machinery using advanced CAD software.
- Perform stress analysis, fatigue analysis, and other mechanical simulations to ensure structural integrity and performance under extreme operating conditions.
- Select appropriate materials and manufacturing processes, considering factors like durability, cost-effectiveness, and operational environment.
- Develop detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and Bills of Materials (BOMs) for fabrication and assembly.
- Collaborate with manufacturing engineers and production teams to ensure designs are optimized for manufacturability and assembly (DFMA).
- Provide technical support during the fabrication, assembly, and testing phases of machinery.
- Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical design issues that arise during the product lifecycle.
- Stay current with advancements in heavy machinery design, materials, and manufacturing technologies.
- Ensure designs comply with all relevant safety regulations and industry standards for heavy equipment.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
- Minimum of 6 years of experience in mechanical design, specifically with heavy industrial machinery or complex mechanical systems.
- Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Inventor) and simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus) for structural analysis.
- Strong understanding of mechanics of materials, machine design principles, and manufacturing processes like welding, casting, and heavy machining.
- Experience with hydraulic and pneumatic systems is a significant advantage.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment and communicate technical information clearly.
- Detail-oriented with a commitment to producing high-quality engineering designs.
- Experience working in the Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal industrial sector is a plus.
Benefits
- Competitive salary package, up to R per annum .
- Comprehensive benefits including medical aid and provident fund.
- Opportunities for career growth within a leading industrial manufacturing company.
- Exposure to large-scale, impactful engineering projects.
- Stable employment in a key industrial region.
- Supportive team environment focused on engineering excellence.