Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Mining Equipment

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Hybrid work arrangement

On-site facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for our mining equipment client in Mahikeng, North West. The role focuses on design, development, and continuous improvement of robust mining machinery, with a strong emphasis on CAD/CAE, material science, and structural integrity in harsh environments.

The position balances on-site collaboration with flexible remote work, requiring leadership in complex analyses, mentoring junior engineers, and ensuring designs meet safety and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering is required.
• 6+ years of progressive experience in mechanical design for heavy equipment.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAE tools for structural analysis is essential.
• Strong understanding of material science, metallurgy, and failure analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of heavy-duty mechanical components and systems for mining equipment, ensuring high performance and durability.
• Utilize SolidWorks or Inventor for detailed 3D modeling, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings.
• Perform structural analyses, including FEA, stress and fatigue calculations to validate designs for harsh environments.
• Select materials, coatings, and manufacturing processes suitable for corrosive and abrasive mining environments.
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to optimize designs for production efficiency and cost.
• Coordinate with electrical/hydraulics teams to integrate mechanical systems into complete equipment solutions.
• Troubleshoot design issues during prototyping, testing, or field operations and implement robust fixes.
• Maintain and update design documentation, BOMs, and technical manuals.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the technical development of the engineering department.

Skills

CAD/CAE proficiency

Structural analysis (FEA)

Material science

Project coordination

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer of heavy-duty mining equipment, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their team in Mahikeng, North West. This role is critical in the design, development, and continuous improvement of robust and efficient mining machinery. You will be instrumental in conceptualizing innovative solutions, performing complex engineering analyses, and ensuring designs meet the rigorous demands of the mining industry. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in mechanical engineering, extensive experience with CAD/CAE tools, and a deep understanding of material science and structural integrity, particularly in harsh environments. This hybrid role balances essential on-site collaboration with flexible remote work, ensuring optimal project workflow and employee well-being. Join a team dedicated to advancing mining technology and operational safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of heavy-duty mechanical components and systems for mining equipment, ensuring high performance and durability.
• Utilize advanced CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor) for detailed 3D modeling, complex assemblies, and the creation of manufacturing drawings.
• Conduct thorough structural analysis (FEA), stress calculations, and fatigue analysis to validate designs for extreme operating conditions.
• Specify materials, coatings, and manufacturing processes suitable for corrosive and abrasive mining environments.
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to ensure designs are optimized for production efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Work closely with electrical and hydraulics engineers to integrate mechanical systems into complete equipment solutions.
• Troubleshoot design-related issues encountered during prototyping, testing, or in the field, and implement effective solutions.
• Maintain and update technical documentation, including design specifications, BOMs, and technical manuals.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the overall technical development of the engineering department.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• A minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in mechanical design, with a significant focus on heavy equipment, preferably in the mining or construction industry.
• Proficiency in industry-standard CAD software and CAE tools for structural analysis.
• Strong understanding of material science, metallurgy, and failure analysis, particularly as applied to heavy-duty applications.
• Knowledge of hydraulic systems and mobile equipment design principles is advantageous.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking capabilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, effective in both team and individual settings.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet demanding deadlines.
• Familiarity with relevant safety standards and regulations in the mining sector.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience and expertise, along with potential for performance-based bonuses. Comprehensive health insurance, including medical and dental coverage, is provided. A retirement savings plan with employer contributions is available. Professional development is actively supported through specialized training and opportunities to attend industry conferences. The company fosters a culture of innovation and safety. Generous paid time off, including annual leave and sick leave, is standard. This hybrid role requires a presence at our Mahikeng, North West facility for critical team collaboration and project oversight, with flexibility for remote work. Modern facilities and on-site amenities are provided.