Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Energy Systems

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Hybrid work

Professional growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for our renewable energy client in Port Elizabeth. The role offers a hybrid work model, blending in-office collaboration with remote work, and involves designing mechanical systems for energy generation and storage.

You'll use SolidWorks, Inventor or CATIA to build 3D models and drawings, perform FEA/CFD analyses, and work with cross-functional teams to ensure safe, compliant, cost-effective solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (Master's a plus).
• 6+ years in mechanical design with energy systems exposure.
• Proficient in SolidWorks, Inventor or CATIA; FEA/CFD experience.
• Strong thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and materials science.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and systems for energy generation, storage, and distribution equipment.
• Create 3D models and drawings using SolidWorks, Inventor, or CATIA.
• Perform structural, thermal, and fluid analyses with FEA/CFD.
• Collaborate with electrical engineers, PMs and manufacturing teams.
• Develop verification plans, prototype testing and performance analysis.
• Suggest design improvements for efficiency, reliability and cost.
• Ensure compliance with standards, regulations and safety.
• Specify materials and parts with procurement support.
• Contribute to technical docs and manufacturing instructions.

Skills

Thermodynamics

Fluid mechanics

Materials science

Project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

CATIA

FEA/CFD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the renewable energy sector, is seeking a skilled Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for their **Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA** office. This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, blending collaborative in-office work with the flexibility of remote work. You will be instrumental in the design and development of innovative mechanical systems for energy generation and storage solutions. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to sustainable energy projects and work with a team dedicated to making a difference. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in mechanical design and a passion for energy technologies, based in or able to commute to **Port Elizabeth**.

Key Responsibilities

Design and develop mechanical components and systems for energy generation, storage, and distribution equipment. Utilize advanced CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) to create detailed 3D models, 2D drawings, and assemblies. Perform structural, thermal, and fluid dynamic analyses using FEA and CFD tools to validate designs. Collaborate with electrical engineers, project managers, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless integration and production of energy systems. Develop and execute design verification and validation plans, including prototype testing and performance analysis. Identify and implement design improvements to enhance efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of energy systems. Ensure designs comply with relevant industry standards, environmental regulations, and safety protocols for the energy sector. Specify materials and components, working with procurement to source suitable parts. Contribute to technical documentation, including specifications, reports, and manufacturing instructions. Stay informed about advancements in energy technologies and mechanical engineering best practices.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline; Master's degree is a plus. A minimum of 6 years of professional experience in mechanical design engineering, with a significant focus on energy systems, power generation, or related fields. Proficiency in CAD software such as SolidWorks, Inventor, or CATIA, and experience with FEA/CFD analysis tools. Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science as applied to energy systems. Experience with renewable energy technologies (solar, wind, battery storage) is highly desirable. Excellent problem-solving skills and analytical capabilities. Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective teamwork in a hybrid setting. Ability to manage projects, meet deadlines, and work effectively both independently and collaboratively. Experience with product development lifecycle and manufacturing processes. Must be based in or able to commute to the **Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA** office for hybrid work.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance incentives, comprehensive health benefits, a retirement savings plan, and generous paid time off. We foster a culture of innovation and provide opportunities for professional growth and development within the rapidly expanding renewable energy sector. The hybrid model provides flexibility and supports a healthy work-life balance.