Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Mining Equipment

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical and retirement benefits

Paid time off

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a senior mechanical design engineer for a leading heavy-duty mining equipment manufacturer in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. The role emphasizes conceptualization, detailed design, and validation of robust mechanical systems for advanced mining machinery.

You will lead complex designs using SolidWorks or Inventor, run FEA and fatigue analyses, and mentor junior engineers while collaborating with cross-functional teams to meet safety and performance requirements in demanding

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in mechanical design and engineering, heavy industrial machinery focus.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Inventor) and simulation tools (ANSYS, SolidWorks Simulation).
• Knowledge of material science, fatigue, fracture mechanics, tribology, and high-stress design.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of complex mechanical systems for mining equipment with emphasis on performance, durability and safety.
• Use SolidWorks or Inventor for detailed modeling, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings.
• Perform FEA, fatigue, and stress analyses to ensure design integrity under extreme conditions.
• Collaborate with product management, manufacturing and field service engineers to meet requirements.
• Develop and execute test plans for prototypes and production components; implement design modifications from results.
• Create and maintain BOMs and technical specifications for procurement and manufacturing.
• Stay updated on industry trends and advanced manufacturing techniques relevant to mining equipment.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on design methodologies.

Skills

Mentoring

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Decision making

Communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

ANSYS

SolidWorks Simulation

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer of heavy-duty mining equipment, is seeking an experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their established engineering team based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. This critical role involves the conceptualization, detailed design, and validation of robust mechanical systems and components for advanced mining machinery. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in mechanical engineering principles, material science, and the design of high-stress, high-wear applications. This position requires a dedicated individual who can contribute significantly to product development and innovation within the mining sector. Join a company committed to technological advancement and operational excellence in the heart of Nelspruit.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of complex mechanical systems and components for mining equipment, ensuring maximum performance, durability, and safety.
• Utilize advanced 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor) for detailed modeling, assembly design, and the creation of comprehensive manufacturing drawings.
• Perform rigorous engineering analyses, including Finite Element Analysis (FEA), fatigue analysis, and stress analysis, to ensure design integrity under extreme operating conditions.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including product management, manufacturing, and field service engineers, to ensure designs meet market and operational requirements.
• Develop and execute comprehensive test plans for prototypes and production components, analyze results, and implement design modifications for improvement.
• Create and maintain detailed Bills of Materials (BOMs) and technical specifications for procurement and manufacturing.
• Stay current with industry trends, new materials, and advanced manufacturing techniques applicable to mining equipment.
• Mentor junior engineers, providing technical guidance and support on design methodologies and problem-solving.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in mechanical design and engineering, with a strong focus on heavy industrial machinery, preferably mining equipment.
• Expert proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor) and simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, SolidWorks Simulation).
• Deep understanding of material science, fatigue, fracture mechanics, tribology, and the design of high-stress components.
• Proven ability to manage complex design projects and contribute to product lifecycle management.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with diverse teams.
• Experience with relevant industry standards and safety regulations for mining equipment is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, paid time off, and opportunities for professional development and advancement within a leading organization. The role in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga provides a stable and rewarding career path within the vital mining industry. Employees benefit from working with cutting-edge technology and contributing to the development of world-class mining solutions.