Mechanical Design Engineer - Mining Equipment Systems

Placements24; Nuwerus; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to join a leading mining equipment manufacturer in Kimberley. You will design heavy machinery components and systems, using SolidWorks/Creo for 3D modeling and BOMs, and perform CAE analyses to ensure reliability in harsh environments.

The role requires 6+ years of experience, a Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, and strong collaboration with R&D, manufacturing, and field service teams. MSHA safety standards knowledge is advantageous.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of professional experience in mechanical design engineering.
• Experience designing for extreme operating conditions and harsh environments.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAE tools including SolidWorks, Creo, ANSYS and Abaqus.
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, pneumatics, drivetrain systems, and structural mechanics.
• Experience with design for manufacturing (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA).

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components, sub-assemblies, and complete systems for heavy mining equipment.
• Use CAD software (SolidWorks, Creo) for 3D modeling, drawings, and BOMs.
• Perform structural, thermal, vibration, and fatigue analyses using CAE tools.
• Collaborate with materials and manufacturing to optimize for manufacturability in harsh environments.
• Develop and execute testing plans for prototypes and production units.
• Ensure designs comply with safety standards and MSHA requirements.
• Prepare technical documentation and troubleshooting guides.
• Provide technical support to manufacturing, assembly, and field teams.
• Stay updated on mining equipment technology and materials advances.
• Identify cost-saving measures and design improvements.

Skills

Mechanical design

DFM/ DFA

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Project management

Harsh environments design

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Creo

ANSYS

Abaqus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer of heavy-duty mining equipment, is seeking a highly skilled Mechanical Design Engineer to join their team in Kimberley, Northern Cape . This role is integral to the design, development, and continuous improvement of robust and reliable mining machinery. You will be responsible for conceptualizing, engineering, and validating complex mechanical systems that operate in harsh environments. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in mechanical engineering principles, extensive experience with CAD/CAE tools, and a proven ability to design for extreme conditions. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to critical infrastructure projects and work with state-of-the-art technology in the mining industry. We are looking for a proactive and problem-solving engineer who can collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including R&D, manufacturing, and field service. Your expertise will be crucial in ensuring the performance, durability, and safety of our client's world-class mining equipment. Join us in shaping the future of resource extraction technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components, sub-assemblies, and complete systems for heavy mining equipment.
• Utilize advanced CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo) for 3D modeling, detailed drawings, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Perform engineering analysis, including structural, thermal, vibration, and fatigue analysis using FEA and other CAE tools, to ensure design integrity.
• Collaborate with material scientists and manufacturing engineers to select appropriate materials and ensure designs are optimized for manufacturability and durability in harsh environments.
• Develop and execute comprehensive testing plans for prototypes and production units, analyze results, and implement design improvements.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant safety standards, industry regulations (e.g., MSHA), and client specifications.
• Prepare detailed technical documentation, including design reports, specifications, maintenance manuals, and troubleshooting guides.
• Provide technical support to manufacturing, assembly, and field service teams.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in mining equipment technology, materials, and design methodologies.
• Identify and implement cost-saving measures and efficiency improvements in equipment design.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of professional experience in mechanical design engineering, with a significant focus on heavy machinery, automotive, or industrial equipment.
• Proven experience in designing for extreme operating conditions and harsh environments.
• Proficiency in industry-standard CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo) and CAE tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus).
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, pneumatics, drivetrain systems, and structural mechanics.
• Experience with design for manufacturing (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to manage projects and tasks effectively within deadlines.
• Familiarity with mining operations and equipment is highly advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and an attractive benefits package, including comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and a retirement fund. Opportunities for continuous professional development, including specialized training and technical certifications, are readily available. The company fosters a culture of innovation and provides a dynamic work environment with excellent career progression opportunities. We also emphasize work-life balance and offer generous annual leave.