Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Manufacturing Equipment

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical and life insurance

Retirement annuity

Generous annual leave

Professional development

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct in Polokwane, Limpopo, seeks a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to lead the design of bespoke manufacturing equipment. You will translate requirements into robust 3D models and drawings, overseeing fabrication and installation while mentoring junior engineers.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in mechanical design, strong CAD/CAE expertise, and a solid understanding of automation and manufacturing processes to optimize production capabilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in mechanical design for manufacturing equipment or industrial machinery.
• Expert proficiency in 3D CAD software and FEA/CFD analysis tools.
• Solid understanding of industrial automation, gears, bearings, power transmission, and control systems integration.
• Experience with machining, fabrication, and assembly processes.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design of complex mechanical systems for manufacturing automation and production lines.
• Develop detailed 3D models, assemblies, and 2D drawings using CAD software (SolidWorks, Inventor).
• Perform engineering calculations and simulations (FEA, CFD) to validate performance and thermal characteristics.
• Select materials and actuators based on requirements and cost considerations.
• Collaborate with electrical, automation, and manufacturing teams for integrated systems.

Skills

3D CAD proficiency

FEA/CFD analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

Job description

About the Role

Our client, WhatJobs Direct, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their specialized team in Polokwane, Limpopo. This role is dedicated to the design and development of bespoke manufacturing equipment and production machinery. You will be responsible for conceptualizing innovative mechanical solutions, translating requirements into detailed designs, and overseeing the implementation of new equipment. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of mechanical engineering principles, extensive CAD/CAE expertise, and a proven ability to deliver robust and efficient machinery. This position is based in Polokwane, Limpopo, offering a dynamic environment where your design skills will directly contribute to optimizing manufacturing processes and enhancing production capabilities for our client.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design of complex mechanical systems for manufacturing automation and production lines.
• Develop detailed 3D models, assemblies, and 2D manufacturing drawings using advanced CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor).
• Perform engineering calculations and simulations (FEA, CFD) to validate design performance, strength, and thermal characteristics.
• Select appropriate materials, components, and actuators based on application requirements and cost considerations.
• Collaborate with electrical engineers, automation specialists, and manufacturing teams to ensure integrated system functionality.
• Oversee the fabrication, assembly, and installation of designed equipment.
• Conduct performance testing and commissioning of new machinery, troubleshooting any issues that arise.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including BOMs, design reports, and user manuals.
• Continuously seek opportunities for design improvement and innovation in manufacturing technology.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance within the design team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in mechanical design, with a strong emphasis on manufacturing equipment or industrial machinery.
• Expert proficiency in 3D CAD software and experience with FEA analysis tools.
• Solid understanding of industrial automation, machine components (gears, bearings, power transmission), and control systems integration.
• Experience with various manufacturing processes (machining, fabrication, assembly).
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong project coordination and communication abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Polokwane, Limpopo.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for annual bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and disability benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training.
• Exposure to cutting-edge manufacturing technologies.
• Work on challenging and innovative projects shaping industrial capabilities.
• Stable and reputable employer in Polokwane.
• Retirement annuity fund.
• Generous annual leave allowance.