Senior Mechanical Engineer - Renewable Energy Projects

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Pension fund

Leave allowances

Training & certifications

Conferences & career progression

Job summary

Placements24 in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, seeks a Senior Mechanical Engineer to drive mechanical design and analysis for solar and wind projects. You will lead detailed structural and thermal analyses, select materials and equipment, and generate BOMs and regulatory documentation.

Role requires 7+ years in renewables or heavy infrastructure, proficiency in CAD (AutoCAD, SolidWorks) and ANSYS, and strong leadership skills. PE registration is advantageous.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum 7 years' experience in mechanical engineering in renewables or heavy infrastructure.
• Experience with structural analysis, CAD (AutoCAD, SolidWorks), and ANSYS.
• PEng registration with ECSA is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design for renewable energy projects in Mossel Bay.
• Perform detailed structural, thermal, and mechanical analysis using FEA and other tools.
• Specify materials, select equipment, and develop Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Create detailed drawings, specifications, and reports for documentation and regulatory submissions.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and oversee prototype development.

Skills

Mechanical design

FEA

Renewables

Project leadership

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

SolidWorks

ANSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding leader in the renewable energy sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer to play a key role in the design and development of innovative solar and wind energy projects. Based in Mossel Bay, Western Cape , this position will involve the mechanical design, analysis, and integration of large-scale energy infrastructure. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mechanical systems engineering, with specific expertise in structural analysis, material selection, and project coordination within the renewable energy domain. You will collaborate with a team of dedicated professionals to deliver sustainable energy solutions that meet demanding technical specifications and contribute to South Africa's green energy transition. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a vital industry in a scenic coastal location.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and engineering efforts for renewable energy projects, including solar farms and wind energy installations, in the Mossel Bay region.
• Perform detailed structural, thermal, and mechanical analysis of components and systems using FEA and other simulation tools.
• Specify materials, select equipment (e.g., turbines, solar trackers, mounting structures), and develop comprehensive Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Create detailed engineering drawings, technical specifications, and reports for project documentation and regulatory submissions.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including electrical engineers, civil engineers, project managers, and site personnel.
• Oversee prototype development, testing, and validation of mechanical components and systems.
• Ensure designs meet all relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and environmental requirements.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technical staff.
• Conduct site visits and feasibility studies for new project developments.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues encountered during project execution and provide solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in mechanical engineering, with a significant focus on renewable energy projects (solar, wind) or related heavy infrastructure.
• Proven experience with structural analysis, CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks), and simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS).
• Strong understanding of materials science, mechanical vibrations, and fatigue analysis.
• Knowledge of renewable energy technologies and their associated mechanical systems.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead and influence technical teams.
• Experience in project management or leading engineering tasks is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with the Western Cape's project landscape, particularly around Mossel Bay.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng) registration with ECSA is a strong advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, commensurate with your expertise and contribution, along with performance bonuses and comprehensive employee benefits.
• These include excellent medical aid, a substantial pension fund, and generous leave allowances.
• We are committed to fostering professional growth, providing opportunities for advanced training, certifications, and attending relevant industry conferences.
• The work environment in Mossel Bay is dynamic and forward-looking, focused on sustainability and innovation. Employees benefit from working on impactful projects, clear career progression, and the chance to live and work in a beautiful coastal region of the Western Cape.
• Our client values work-life balance and offers a supportive team culture.