Senior HVAC Design Engineer - Commercial Buildings

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Professional development opportunities

Collaborative work environment

Exposure to cutting-edge building tech

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Senior HVAC Design Engineer to join our Stellenbosch team in the Western Cape. The role focuses on design, specification, and project oversight of advanced HVAC systems for commercial, institutional, and high-end residential buildings.

You will lead design efforts, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with architects, project managers, and clients to deliver efficient environmental control solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 8+ years' experience in HVAC design for commercial/institutional buildings.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is desirable.
• Proficiency in HVAC design software and simulation tools.
• Strong knowledge of energy efficiency standards and building physics.

Responsibilities

• Lead detailed design and engineering of HVAC systems (load calculations, ductwork, piping, equipment selection).
• Develop HVAC designs, drawings, and control strategies for various buildings.
• Perform energy modeling to optimize performance per energy efficiency standards.
• Coordinate with architects and engineers for integrated design.
• Conduct site inspections to ensure installations meet specs.
• Mentor junior HVAC engineers and designers.
• Stay updated on HVAC technologies and codes.

Skills

HVAC design engineering

Project leadership

Mentoring

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Revit MEP

AutoCAD MEP

HAP

Trace 700

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading architectural and engineering consultancy firm, is seeking an experienced Senior HVAC Design Engineer to join their esteemed team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This pivotal role focuses on the design, specification, and project oversight of advanced Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems for a diverse portfolio of commercial, institutional, and high-end residential buildings. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of HVAC principles, building codes, energy efficiency standards, and cutting-edge system technologies. You will be responsible for leading design efforts, mentoring junior engineers, and collaborating closely with architects, project managers, and clients to deliver optimal environmental control solutions. This is an excellent opportunity to shape the built environment in one of South Africa's most scenic regions, contributing to comfortable, efficient, and sustainable building performance. This position requires full-time presence in our Stellenbosch office to facilitate close collaboration and on-site project coordination.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the detailed design and engineering of HVAC systems, including load calculations, ductwork design, piping layouts, and equipment selection.
• Develop comprehensive HVAC system designs, specifications, drawings, and control strategies for various building types.
• Perform energy modeling and analysis to optimize system performance and ensure compliance with energy efficiency standards (e.g., SANS 10400).
• Collaborate effectively with architects, structural engineers, and electrical engineers to ensure integrated building system design.
• Conduct site inspections during construction to ensure mechanical installations are in accordance with design specifications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve HVAC design and installation issues throughout the project lifecycle.
• Review submittals from contractors and suppliers to ensure compliance with project requirements.
• Mentor and guide junior HVAC engineers and designers, fostering their technical development.
• Stay updated on the latest HVAC technologies, industry best practices, and relevant building codes and standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience specifically in HVAC design engineering for commercial and institutional buildings.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in HVAC design software (e.g., Revit MEP, AutoCAD MEP, HAP, Trace 700) and simulation tools.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, psychrometrics, and building physics.
• Knowledge of energy efficiency standards, green building certifications (e.g., LEED), and sustainable design practices.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Experience working within the Stellenbosch, Western Cape market is an advantage.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary, up to R per annum .
• Opportunity to work on prestigious building projects in a beautiful setting.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement benefits.
• Continuous professional development and training opportunities.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment within a reputable consultancy.
• Exposure to cutting-edge building technologies and sustainable design practices.