Senior Mechanical Design Engineer (Industrial)

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package with performance-based

Medical aid

Pension fund

Life insurance

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for a leading heavy industrial player in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The role focuses on the design, development, and optimization of robust mechanical systems for large-scale operations, including material handling and process machinery.

You will lead CAD design, run stress analyses, manage BOMs, mentor junior engineers, and ensure compliance with SA codes and safety standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• 7+ years of progressive mechanical design experience in industrial settings
• Proficiency with CAD software (Inventor, CATIA) and FEA tools
• Strong understanding of materials science, thermodynamics, hydraulics and pneumatics
• Experience with large-scale industrial equipment, plant design or heavy machinery
• Knowledge of South African industrial codes and safety standards
• Strong project management and teamwork abilities
• Ability to work in a hybrid model with site visits

Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and detailed design of industrial mechanical systems and components using advanced CAD software.
• Perform engineering calculations, stress analysis, and system simulations to ensure design integrity and performance.
• Develop and manage technical specifications, drawings, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Collaborate closely with project managers, manufacturing teams, and site engineers.
• Oversee the fabrication, installation, and commissioning of mechanical equipment.
• Conduct root cause analysis for equipment failures and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and environmental requirements.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.
• Participate in design reviews and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the heavy industrial sector, is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This critical role involves the design, development, and optimization of robust mechanical systems and equipment essential for large-scale industrial operations. You will be at the forefront of innovation, tackling complex engineering challenges related to material handling, process machinery, and structural integrity. The position requires a deep understanding of industrial environments, adherence to strict safety protocols, and the ability to deliver reliable and efficient designs. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to major infrastructure and industrial projects within a key South African economic zone. The successful candidate will work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team, driving excellence in engineering design and execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and detailed design of industrial mechanical systems and components using advanced CAD software.
• Perform engineering calculations, stress analysis, and system simulations to ensure design integrity and performance.
• Develop and manage technical specifications, drawings, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Collaborate closely with project managers, manufacturing teams, and site engineers.
• Oversee the fabrication, installation, and commissioning of mechanical equipment.
• Conduct root cause analysis for equipment failures and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and environmental requirements.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.
• Participate in design reviews and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in mechanical design, with a strong focus on industrial applications.
• Proficiency in industry-standard CAD software (e.g., Inventor, CATIA) and simulation tools (FEA).
• Solid understanding of materials science, thermodynamics, hydraulics, and pneumatics in an industrial context.
• Experience with large-scale industrial equipment, plant design, or heavy machinery.
• Knowledge of South African industrial codes and safety standards.
• Strong project management and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing office and potential site visits.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, along with performance-based bonuses and comprehensive benefits, including medical aid, pension fund, and life insurance. Employees have access to professional development opportunities, including advanced training, workshops, and potential support for further qualifications. The company promotes a strong safety culture and offers a collaborative work environment within the dynamic industrial landscape of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This role provides exposure to significant industrial projects and the chance for career progression within a well-established organization. We offer ample paid leave and a commitment to fostering a sustainable work-life balance for our employees.