PURPOSE OF ROLE
We are seeking a skilled and driven Mechanical Engineer/Technologist to provide technical expertise in the delivery of compliant, cost-effective, and constructible engineering designs across the full project lifecycle — from tender through to handover. The successful candidate will ensure professional engineering outputs are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with client requirements, applicable codes and standards, and internal engineering management systems. The role also provides technical support across projects, contributing to proposal development, procurement, commissioning, and handover activities.
KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS
Engineering Design & Technical Delivery
- Develop engineering calculations, drawings, datasheets, and specifications
- Ensure compliance with applicable codes, standards, and client requirements
- Address and close internal and external design review comments
- Identify and manage technical risks within assigned scope
Tendering, Proposals and Technical Input
- Generate mechanical designs for nuclear facilities ensuring compliance with nuclear codes
- Manage configuration control for design modifications during review and installation phases
- Interface with Project Engineering, Procurement, Cost Control and SHEQ teams on design requirements
- Review material specifications and procurement documents for nuclear applications
Tender & Proposal Preparation
- Conduct technical feasibility studies to support bid/no-bid decisions
- Develop mechanical procurement specifications for equipment, materials, and services pricing
- Participate in scope clarification meetings with clients and proposal teams
Project Execution & Technical Support
- Provide technical support to site teams and resolve site queries
- Support commissioning activities, including procedure compilation and testing
- Ensure as-built documentation and punch list items are resolved
Design Integration & Interdisciplinary Coordination
- Interface with other engineering disciplines to ensure coordinated design
- Participate in integrated design and constructability reviews
- Identify interface risks and implement mitigation strategies
- Evaluate engineering software requirements and tools
- Apply value engineering principles to optimise cost and performance
Governance, Compliance & Technical Leadership
- Ensure compliance with the Engineering Management Plan (EMP) and project procedures
- Provide technical guidance and mentorship to EITs and junior engineers/technologists
- Monitor engineering hours against budget and report variances
- Participate in change control and cost control processes
- Promote SHEQ compliance and report near-miss incidents
Contract Negotiation & Client Engagement
- Participate in client technical negotiations to clarify scope and requirements
- Review contract terms to ensure all mechanical technical elements are accurately captured
- Clarify technical inclusions, exclusions, and assumptions with clients and the commercial team
- Address client technical queries during contract finalisation
- Ensure contractual technical obligations are achievable within proposed resources
Quality Assurance & Testing Oversight
- Compile test procedures for mechanical systems and equipment
- Participate in Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs) to verify equipment compliance with specifications
- Conduct or oversee receipt inspection activities for mechanical nuclear equipment
- Support site commissioning activities and testing as required by project teams
- Raise and track non-conformance reports, ensuring timely resolution and closeout
QUALIFICATION
- Sc./ BEng /BTech in Mechanical Engineering
- Registration as a Professional Engineer/Technologist with ECSA (Engineering Council of South Africa)
- Recognised or authorised Safety Evaluator status (e.g., 10 CFR 50.59 or equivalent) preferred
EXPERIENCE
- Minimum 5 years' relevant mechanical design experience in the nuclear sector
- Proven experience working within nuclear design teams
- Demonstrated experience in nuclear safety screenings, evaluations, and safety case development
COMPETENCIES
Knowledge
- Comprehensive understanding of mechanical engineering codes and standards (ASME, SABS, ISO)
- In-depth knowledge of nuclear-specific standards and regulatory requirements (NNR, IAEA, KTA)
- Thorough understanding of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and associated regulations
- Familiarity with quality management systems (ISO 9001, ASME NQA-1, IAEA GS-R-3)
- Understanding of nuclear safety classification and safety case principles
- Knowledge of design configuration management processes
Behaviours
- High professional and ethical standards
- Strong work ethic and commitment to quality excellence
- Effective team player with a collaborative approach
- Proven leadership and mentoring capabilities
- Resilient in managing difficult client relationships
- Strong attention to detail with a focus on nuclear safety culture
- Adaptable and solution-oriented approach to challenges
- Strong organisational and time management abilities
Skills
- Advanced computer literacy (MS Office Suite: Outlook, Excel, Word, Project)
- Proficiency in CAD software and mechanical design tools
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong technical analysis and problem-solving abilities
- Project management and resource allocation capabilities
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications
- Contract negotiation and client relationship management skills
- Technical report writing and documentation preparation