Senior Mechanical Engineer - HVAC Specialist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Annual incentives

Professional growth

Job summary

Placements24 in Paarl, Western Cape, is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer with HVAC specialization to lead the design and delivery of efficient, sustainable mechanical systems across commercial, healthcare, and educational facilities.

The ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Pr Eng registration, and 7+ years of HVAC experience. Strong software proficiency (Revit MEP, AutoCAD, HAP, IES VE) and leadership skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• Pr Eng registration with ECSA.
• Minimum 7 years’ experience in HVAC design and mechanical building services.
• Proven experience designing complex HVAC systems for commercial, healthcare, or industrial facilities.
• Proficiency in HVAC design software (Revit MEP, AutoCAD, HAP, IES VE).

Responsibilities

• Lead design and specification of HVAC systems (air conditioning, ventilation, heating, cooling).
• Develop detailed mechanical designs, schematics, calculations and drawings.
• Perform energy modeling to optimize performance and reduce environmental impact.
• Ensure designs comply with building codes and standards (e.g., SANS 10400).
• Collaborate with architects, structural, and electrical engineers for integrated designs.
• Prepare specs, BoQ, and tender docs for mechanical services.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians within the team.
• Conduct site inspections to verify installation quality and resolve issues.

Skills

HVAC design

Energy modeling

Project leadership

Client liaison

Team mentoring

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Pr Eng registration (ECSA)

Tools

Revit MEP

AutoCAD

HAP

IES VE

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly regarded building services consultancy, is seeking a dedicated Senior Mechanical Engineer with a specialization in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems. Based in Paarl, Western Cape , this role is crucial for the design and implementation of efficient and sustainable mechanical systems for a range of prestigious projects, including commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions. The ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in HVAC design, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and energy efficiency principles. You will be responsible for leading design efforts, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and ensuring the highest quality of technical delivery. This is an exceptional opportunity for a skilled Mechanical Engineer to contribute to significant developments in the Western Cape region and further develop their career in a supportive and professional environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and specification of HVAC systems, including air conditioning, ventilation, heating, and cooling solutions.
• Develop detailed mechanical system designs, schematics, calculations, and drawings using industry-standard software.
• Conduct energy modeling and analysis to optimize system performance and minimize environmental impact.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant building codes, standards (e.g., SANS 10400), and best practices.
• Collaborate with architects, structural engineers, and electrical engineers to ensure integrated building designs.
• Prepare technical specifications, bill of quantities, and tender documentation for mechanical services.
• Manage and mentor junior mechanical engineers and technicians within the design team.
• Conduct site inspections to verify installation quality and resolve technical issues during construction.
• Review contractor submittals, shop drawings, and calculations.
• Provide technical support to project managers and clients throughout the project lifecycle.
• Stay updated on emerging HVAC technologies and sustainable design strategies.
• Assist in the tendering and procurement process for mechanical systems.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent qualification.
• Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) registration with ECSA.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience focused on HVAC design and mechanical building services.
• Proven experience in designing complex HVAC systems for commercial, healthcare, or industrial facilities.
• Proficiency in HVAC design software (e.g., Revit MEP, AutoCAD, HAP, IES VE).
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer principles.
• Knowledge of energy efficiency standards and green building rating systems (e.g., Green Star SA).
• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage project timelines and budgets effectively.
• Experience in site supervision and quality control is advantageous.
• Strong analytical skills and the attention to detail.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional growth and specialization.
• Involvement in high-profile and technically challenging projects.
• Contribution to retirement fund and medical aid.
• Annual performance incentives.
• A collaborative and innovative work culture.