Mechanical Engineer

Kontak Recruitment; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established manufacturer in Johannesburg is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join its in-house design department. The role involves designing and improving pneumatic and hydraulic systems, with opportunities for growth into senior design or technical roles. Candidates should have a degree in Mechanical Engineering, relevant experience, and proficiency in CAD software, ideally Autodesk Inventor. This is a hands-on position with international travel required.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years’ relevant work experience; exposure to manufacturing environments is advantageous.
• Ability to read and interpret schematics and logic circuitry.
• Willingness to travel internationally.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and improve pneumatic and hydraulic systems and components.
• Produce accurate 3D models and technical documentation using CAD software.
• Support manufacturing teams by resolving technical issues.

Skills

Strong mechanical aptitude

Proactive, solution-driven mindset

Problem-solving ability

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CAD software (Autodesk Inventor)

Job description

Mechanical Engineer required in Sandton, Johannesburg.

A well-established South African manufacturer of pneumatic and hydraulic equipment is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join its in-house design department. With over four decades of manufacturing experience and a strong presence in both local and international markets, the company serves a wide range of industries, including mining, oil & gas, shipping, and rail maintenance.

This role is ideally suited for a hands-on, practical-minded engineer who enjoys working across the full product lifecycle, from new product design and development to supporting manufacturing, customers, and continuous improvement initiatives. The position offers broad exposure and clear long-term growth opportunities into senior design, R&D, or technical leadership roles.

Salary: R25,000 – R40,000 CTC (structured according to qualifications and experience).

Minimum Requirements

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• 2–3 years’ relevant work experience; exposure to manufacturing environments is advantageous.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with a practical, hands-on approach.
• Experience with CAD software, preferably Autodesk Inventor.
• Solid understanding of fluid power systems, including pneumatics and hydraulics.
• Ability to read and interpret schematics and logic circuitry.
• Willingness to travel internationally.
• Proactive, solution-driven mindset with strong problem-solving ability.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and improve pneumatic and hydraulic systems and components.
• Produce accurate 3D models, technical drawings, and design documentation using CAD software (Autodesk Inventor preferred).
• Maintain and update existing product designs, managing revisions and engineering change control.
• Support manufacturing teams by resolving technical issues and improving manufacturability, cost efficiency, and product quality.
• Conduct design reviews to ensure compliance with safety, quality, and relevant industry standards.
• Perform testing, validation, and prototyping of new and existing designs.
• Provide technical support and training to customers and internal teams, locally and internationally.
• Participate in international travel as required for customer support, commissioning, or technical engagement.