Mechanical Design Engineer - Specialised Equipment

Placements24; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Comprehensive medical benefits

Retirement savings options

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer in Randburg, Gauteng to design, develop and optimize bespoke machinery. You will lead stages from concept through prototyping and production support, using Inventor/SolidWorks/AutoCAD and performing advanced analyses.

The role requires 5+ years in mechanical design, strong CAD/FEA skills, and collaboration with electrical and automation teams. On-site position with growth opportunities in a niche manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• 5+ years of relevant experience in mechanical design.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD with experience in FEA tools.
• Strong understanding of dynamics, statics, kinematics, and materials.
• Experience with machining, fabrication, welding, and assembly.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop custom mechanical equipment and systems based on client specifications and project requirements.
• Utilize 3D CAD software (Inventor, SolidWorks, AutoCAD) to create detailed designs, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings.
• Perform engineering calculations and simulations (stress, strain, vibration, thermal) to ensure design integrity.
• Select materials, components and processes for specialized equipment.
• Collaborate with electrical, software, and automation teams for integrated systems.
• Oversee fabrication and assembly of prototypes, conduct testing, and troubleshoot design issues.
• Provide technical support to manufacturing and clients post-installation.
• Document designs, analyses, and testing results thoroughly.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of design processes and product innovation.

Skills

Creative problem solving

Mechanical principles

Communication

Teamwork

Project management

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Inventor

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

FEA tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a niche manufacturer of highly specialized mechanical equipment for industrial processing, is seeking a skilled Mechanical Design Engineer to join their team in Randburg, Gauteng. This role is focused on the design, development, and optimization of bespoke machinery and systems tailored to specific client needs. You will be involved in all stages of the design process, from initial concept and feasibility studies through to detailed design, prototyping, testing, and production support. The ideal candidate will possess a strong aptitude for creative problem-solving, a solid understanding of mechanical principles, and proficiency in advanced CAD and analysis tools. This is a critical on-site position within Randburg, Gauteng, fostering close collaboration with the production and engineering teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop custom mechanical equipment and systems based on client specifications and project requirements.


• Utilize 3D CAD software (e.g., Inventor, SolidWorks, AutoCAD) to create detailed designs, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings.


• Perform engineering calculations and simulations, including stress, strain, vibration, and thermal analysis, to ensure design integrity and performance.


• Select appropriate materials, components, and manufacturing processes for specialized equipment.


• Collaborate with electrical engineers, software developers, and automation specialists to ensure integrated system functionality.


• Oversee the fabrication and assembly of prototypes, conduct rigorous testing, and troubleshoot design issues.


• Provide technical support to the manufacturing team during production and to clients post-installation.


• Document designs, analyses, and testing results thoroughly.


• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives for design processes and product innovation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.


• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in mechanical design, preferably in custom machinery or special purpose equipment.


• Proficiency in 3D CAD software is essential, with experience in FEA tools highly desirable.


• Strong understanding of mechanical principles, including dynamics, statics, kinematics, and material science.


• Familiarity with various manufacturing techniques such as machining, fabrication, welding, and assembly.


• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to think creatively to develop innovative solutions.


• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.


• Experience in project management is a plus.


• Must be legally authorized to work in Randburg, Gauteng, ZA.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical benefits, retirement savings options, and opportunities for professional development.


• This role in Randburg, Gauteng provides the chance to work on unique and challenging engineering projects in a collaborative environment.