Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Mining Equipment

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus potential

Medical insurance

Pension plan

Paid time off

Professional development

Relocation assistance

Cutting-edge projects

Safety culture

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for heavy mining equipment based in Klerksdorp, North West. You will lead design projects, perform FEA analysis, and mentor junior engineers to ensure reliability and safety in underground and surface mining environments.

The role demands expertise in CAD (SolidWorks), materials selection, and power transmission systems, with travel to sites for field validation and a strong emphasis on safety and process excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• 8+ years in mechanical design with heavy mobile equipment or mining machinery.
• Expert in SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software.
• Advanced proficiency in FEA and simulation for stress, fatigue, and vibration analysis.
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, pneumatics, and power transmission systems relevant to mining equipment.
• Knowledge of material science, metallurgy, and selection for extreme environments.
• Proven leadership skills and experience mentoring engineering teams.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking abilities.
• Strong technical documentation and communication skills.
• Experience with machine safety standards and risk assessment is essential.
• Willingness to undertake occasional travel to mining sites for field validation and support.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design of heavy-duty mining equipment, including excavators, drills, crushers, and conveying systems.
• Perform complex structural and dynamic analysis using FEA software to ensure design integrity under extreme loads.
• Specify materials, components, and sub-systems, ensuring they meet stringent performance and durability requirements.
• Develop and maintain detailed engineering drawings, schematics, and BOMs using CAD software.
• Oversee prototype development, rigorous testing, and validation of new designs.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical issues encountered during manufacturing, testing, and field operation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including electrical engineers and hydraulics specialists.
• Mentor and guide junior mechanical engineers, fostering technical excellence.
• Research emerging technologies and materials to enhance product performance, safety, and efficiency.
• Ensure all designs comply with mining industry safety standards and environmental considerations.

Skills

SolidWorks

FEA & Simulation

Hydraulics

Materials science

Leadership

Problem solving

Education

Mechanical Engineering degree

Tools

CAD software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of specialized mining equipment, with a significant operational hub in Klerksdorp, North West . We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer with a specialization in heavy mining machinery. This role is crucial for driving innovation and ensuring the reliability and performance of our equipment in demanding underground and surface mining environments. The ideal candidate will bring extensive experience in complex mechanical design, stress analysis, and materials selection. You will lead design projects, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to the strategic development of our product line. Join a company renowned for its technological prowess and commitment to safety and efficiency in the mining industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design of heavy-duty mining equipment, including excavators, drills, crushers, and conveying systems.
• Perform complex structural and dynamic analysis using FEA software to ensure design integrity under extreme loads.
• Specify materials, components, and sub-systems, ensuring they meet stringent performance and durability requirements.
• Develop and maintain detailed engineering drawings, schematics, and Bill of Materials (BOM) using advanced CAD software.
• Oversee prototype development, rigorous testing, and validation of new designs.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical issues encountered during manufacturing, testing, and field operation.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers, hydraulics specialists, manufacturing, and field service personnel.
• Mentor and guide junior mechanical engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence.
• Research emerging technologies and materials to enhance product performance, safety, and efficiency.
• Ensure all designs comply with mining industry safety standards, regulations, and environmental considerations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in mechanical design, with a significant focus on heavy mobile equipment or mining machinery.
• Expertise in SolidWorks or similar advanced 3D CAD software.
• Advanced proficiency in Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and simulation tools for stress, fatigue, and vibration analysis.
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, pneumatics, and power transmission systems relevant to mining equipment.
• Knowledge of material science, metallurgy, and selection for extreme environments.
• Proven leadership skills and experience mentoring engineering teams.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking abilities.
• Strong technical documentation and communication skills.
• Experience with machine safety standards and risk assessment is essential.
• Willingness to undertake occasional travel to mining sites for field validation and support.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and potential for substantial bonuses based on performance.
• Comprehensive medical and dental insurance plans.
• Generous pension scheme with employer contributions.
• Ample paid time off, including public holidays.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, certifications, and advanced training.
• Work on industry-leading projects with cutting-edge technology.
• A strong safety culture and supportive team environment.
• Relocation assistance available for exceptional candidates.