Mechanical Engineer - Agricultural Machinery Design

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Company pension fund

Professional development

On-site facility in Mahikeng

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mechanical Engineer for a leading agricultural machinery manufacturer in Mahikeng, North West. You will design, develop, and improve mechanical components and systems for tractors and harvesters, applying CAD/FEA to ensure robust performance.

Work closely with manufacturing, testing and product support to deliver reliable machinery and drive ongoing improvements in the agricultural sector from our Mahikeng facility.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 2–5 years of mechanical design experience, preferably in heavy machinery or agricultural equipment.
• Proficiency with 3D CAD software (Inventor, AutoCAD) and basic FEA tools.
• Solid understanding of mechanical principles, hydraulics, power transmission, and materials science.
• Knowledge of agricultural practices and machinery demands is beneficial.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and ability to work effectively in a team.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet timelines.
• Experience with field testing and data analysis is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and systems for agricultural machinery using CAD software.
• Perform engineering calculations and simulations (FEA, durability analysis) to ensure structural integrity and performance.
• Create detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and BOMs.
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to optimize designs for production and assembly.
• Support prototype fabrication, testing, and field trials; analyze performance data and implement design changes.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues in existing or new machinery designs.
• Ensure designs comply with safety standards and agricultural regulations.
• Stay informed about emerging technologies and trends in agricultural machinery design.
• Work with product support teams to address customer feedback and implement improvements.

Skills

CAD software

FEA

Mechanical design

Hydraulics

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Inventor

AutoCAD

Basic FEA tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent manufacturer of agricultural machinery, is seeking a dedicated Mechanical Engineer to join their design team in Mahikeng, North West . This role involves the design, development, and improvement of mechanical components and systems for tractors, harvesters, and other agricultural equipment. You will apply your engineering knowledge to create robust, efficient, and user-friendly machinery solutions tailored to the agricultural sector. The position requires close collaboration with manufacturing, testing, and product support teams to ensure successful product launches and ongoing improvements. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the advancement of agricultural technology in a key farming region. The Mahikeng location places you at the heart of agricultural activity, offering direct relevance to your work.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and systems for agricultural machinery using CAD software.
• Perform engineering calculations and simulations (FEA, durability analysis) to ensure structural integrity and performance.
• Create detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to optimize designs for efficient production and assembly.
• Support prototype fabrication, testing, and field trials, analyzing performance data and implementing necessary design changes.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues encountered in existing or new machinery designs.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant safety standards and agricultural regulations.
• Stay informed about emerging technologies and trends in agricultural machinery design.
• Work with product support teams to address customer feedback and implement product improvements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related agricultural engineering field.
• 2-5 years of experience in mechanical design, preferably within the heavy machinery or agricultural equipment sector.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., Inventor, AutoCAD) and basic FEA tools.
• Solid understanding of mechanical principles, hydraulics, power transmission, and material science.
• Knowledge of agricultural practices and the demands placed on machinery is highly advantageous.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet project timelines.
• Experience with field testing and data analysis is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and participation in a company pension fund.
• We provide opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the agricultural machinery industry.
• This role is based at our modern manufacturing facility in Mahikeng, North West , offering a stable and engaging work environment.
• Join a team that is passionate about supporting farmers through innovative and reliable machinery solutions.
• We are committed to fostering a positive and productive workplace.