Mechanical Engineer - Power Generation Systems

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Mechanical Engineer in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal for on-site design, analysis, and maintenance of heavy equipment in a power generation setting. The role emphasizes hands-on work, reliability, and upgrading mechanical systems to improve plant performance.

The ideal candidate will hold a B.Eng./B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering with 5+ years in power generation or heavy industry, and strong CAD/FEA skills, plus a solid understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (B.Eng. or B.Sc.).
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in mechanical engineering, preferably in power generation or heavy industry.
• Proficiency in CAD/FEA tools and solid understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test mechanical and electromechanical systems and components.
• Perform stress, thermal, and fluid dynamics analyses for plant equipment.
• Troubleshoot mechanical failures and implement corrective actions.
• Oversee installation, commissioning, and maintenance of heavy equipment.
• Develop and maintain drawings, specifications, and operating manuals.
• Ensure compliance with engineering standards, safety regs, and environmental policies.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and project management.
• Participate in root cause analyses for equipment failures.
• Recommend improvements to enhance efficiency and lifespan.
• Conduct site inspections and provide technical support to field personnel.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Independent & team work

Strong communication

Knowledge of power plant systems

Education

B.Eng. or B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

SolidWorks

FEA tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the power generation industry , has an immediate opening for a skilled Mechanical Engineer in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is critical for ensuring the optimal performance and maintenance of our client's state-of-the-art power generation facilities. You will be responsible for a wide range of mechanical engineering tasks, including design, analysis, troubleshooting, and the implementation of upgrades to mechanical systems. This is an essential on-site position, demanding hands‑on involvement and a commitment to operational excellence. The successful candidate will contribute significantly to the reliability and efficiency of power production in this key industrial hub. This is a fantastic opportunity to work with cutting‑edge technology in a dynamic and challenging environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test mechanical and electromechanical systems and components.
• Perform stress analysis, thermal analysis, and fluid dynamics calculations for power plant equipment.
• Troubleshoot mechanical failures and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime.
• Oversee the installation, commissioning, and maintenance of heavy mechanical equipment.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including drawings, specifications, and operating manuals.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant engineering standards, safety regulations, and environmental policies.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including operations, maintenance, and project management.
• Participate in root cause analysis investigations for equipment failures.
• Recommend and implement improvements to enhance equipment efficiency and lifespan.
• Conduct site inspections and provide technical support to field personnel.

Requirements

• B.Eng. or B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in mechanical engineering, preferably within the power generation or heavy industrial sectors .
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks) and FEA tools.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.
• Experience with rotating machinery (turbines, pumps, compressors) is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of power plant systems and operations.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a demanding operational environment.
• Must be available for full-time, on‑site work in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, a performance-based incentive program, comprehensive medical aid, and participation in a provident fund. Opportunities for professional growth include access to specialized training, technical workshops, and potential for career advancement within the organization. You will be part of a dedicated team operating in a critical sector of the economy, contributing to national energy security. The work environment is dynamic and provides exposure to advanced technologies and complex engineering challenges. Secure your future with a leading energy company.