Mechanical Project Engineer - Renewable Energy Infrastructure

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks an experienced Mechanical Project Engineer to lead renewable energy projects from design through handover. Based in the Western Cape, you will manage budgets, schedules, and safety while coordinating diverse teams and contractors across solar, wind, and other green installations.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, 6+ years in the field with 3+ in project management, and strong proficiency in MS Project, Primavera, CAD.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• Minimum 6 years of relevant mechanical engineering experience, with at least 3 years in project management within renewable energy.
• Proven track record delivering complex projects on time and on budget.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical systems used in renewable energy tech.
• Proficiency in MS Project, Primavera and CAD; able to use industry standards.

Responsibilities

• Manage all phases of mechanical projects for renewable energy installations, maintaining budget, schedule, and quality.
• Develop detailed project plans including scope, resources, risk, and timeline.
• Oversee design, specification, and procurement of mechanical equipment and systems.
• Coordinate with internal teams, contractors, suppliers, and regulators for execution.
• Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and technical reviews for viability.
• Monitor progress, address delays, and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with standards, safety, and environmental policies.
• Prepare technical reports and progress updates for stakeholders.
• Lead and mentor project teams, fostering collaboration and results.

Skills

Project management

Mechanical engineering fundamentals

Team coordination

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Interpersonal skills

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

MS Project

Primavera

CAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in sustainable energy solutions, is seeking an experienced Mechanical Project Engineer to manage and oversee the implementation of renewable energy infrastructure projects. Based in vibrant Cape Town , Western Cape, this role is integral to the successful delivery of solar, wind, and other green energy installations. You will be responsible for the entire project lifecycle, from initial design and feasibility studies through procurement, construction, commissioning, and handover. The ideal candidate will possess strong project management skills, a solid understanding of mechanical engineering principles applied to renewable energy systems, and the ability to coordinate diverse teams. This is a crucial position for advancing renewable energy initiatives within the Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

Manage all phases of mechanical engineering projects for renewable energy installations, ensuring adherence to budget, schedule, and quality standards. Develop detailed project plans, including scope definition, resource allocation, risk assessment, and timeline management. Oversee the design, specification, and procurement of mechanical equipment and systems, such as turbines, solar panel mounting structures, and balance of plant components. Coordinate with internal engineering teams, external contractors, suppliers, and regulatory bodies to ensure seamless project execution. Conduct site assessments, feasibility studies, and technical reviews to ensure project viability and compliance. Monitor project progress, identify potential issues or delays, and implement corrective actions proactively. Ensure all mechanical aspects of projects comply with relevant engineering standards, safety regulations, and environmental policies. Prepare technical reports, project documentation, and progress updates for stakeholders. Lead and mentor project teams, fostering a collaborative and results-driven environment.

Requirements

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline. Minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in mechanical engineering, with at least 3 years in project management, specifically within the renewable energy sector (solar, wind). Proven track record of successfully managing and delivering complex engineering projects on time and within budget. Strong understanding of mechanical systems used in renewable energy technologies. Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera) and CAD software. Excellent knowledge of relevant engineering standards, safety protocols, and environmental regulations. Strong leadership, communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. Ability to travel to project sites as required. Experience working in Cape Town and the surrounding Western Cape is highly desirable.

Benefits

This hybrid role offers a competitive annual salary package, commensurate with your expertise and project management experience. You will be based in our client's modern offices in Cape Town , with hybrid flexibility. Benefits include comprehensive health insurance, retirement savings plan, performance-based bonuses, and opportunities for professional development and certifications in the rapidly growing renewable energy field. Be part of a company committed to sustainability and making a tangible impact on the energy landscape of the Western Cape .