Mechanical Product Development Engineer

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 550,000 - 750,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Port Elizabeth facilities

Growth opportunities

Dynamic work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mechanical Product Development Engineer for the Port Elizabeth area. You will oversee the full product lifecycle from concept to production support, working with design, manufacturing and marketing teams to bring innovations to market.

The role emphasizes CAD modeling, prototype testing, and close collaboration with manufacturing to ensure designs are production-ready. A strong engineering background and hands-on development experience are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 3–5 years of mechanical product development experience.
• Proficiency in CAD software, especially SolidWorks or Inventor.
• Experience with plastics and metal fabrication processes.
• Knowledge of product testing methodologies and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and develop new mechanical products and features.
• Create detailed 3D models, 2D production drawings, and assembly instructions.
• Build and test prototypes, document performance, and identify improvements.
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to optimize designs for production.
• Conduct root cause analysis for product failures and implement corrective actions.
• Manage development timelines and communicate progress to stakeholders.

Skills

CAD software

Product development

Root cause analysis

Prototyping

Manufacturing knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a creative and driven Mechanical Product Development Engineer to join their team in Port Elizabeth . This role is centered around the entire product lifecycle, from concept generation and design to prototyping, testing, and eventual production support. You will be instrumental in bringing new and improved mechanical products to market, working closely with design, manufacturing, and marketing teams. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to tangible product innovation within a well-established company located in the automotive hub of the Eastern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and develop new mechanical products and features.
• Create detailed 3D models, 2D production drawings, and assembly instructions.
• Build and test prototypes, documenting performance and identifying areas for improvement.
• Work closely with manufacturing engineers to ensure designs are optimized for production.
• Conduct root cause analysis for product failures and implement corrective actions.
• Manage product development timelines and communicate progress to stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in mechanical product development.
• Strong proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor).
• Experience with various manufacturing processes (e.g., plastics, metal fabrication).
• Knowledge of product testing methodologies and data analysis.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with a passion for product innovation.

Benefits

• Attractive salary with performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Access to modern product development facilities in Port Elizabeth .
• Opportunities for professional growth within the product development sphere.
• A dynamic work environment focused on creating high-quality consumer and industrial products.