Senior Mechanical Engineer - Renewable Energy Projects

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

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation

Travel allowances

Contract extensions

Site-based work exposure

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead the mechanical design, integration, and installation for large-scale solar and wind projects in Upington, Northern Cape. You will ensure the integrity, efficiency, and reliability of mechanical systems from design through commissioning.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in mechanical engineering, including 4+ years in renewables, with strong knowledge of structural mechanics and energy infrastructure.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in mechanical engineering, with at least 4 years in renewable energy projects (solar/wind).
• Proven experience in project engineering or design management for large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Strong understanding of structural mechanics, materials science, and energy infrastructure principles.
• Familiarity with international standards (IEC, ISO) and SANS.
• Experience with CAD and simulation software is beneficial.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills with strong communication.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical engineering aspects for renewable energy projects, including solar and wind.
• Review and approve mechanical designs, calculations, and specifications.
• Ensure compliance with project requirements, standards, and regulatory guidelines.
• Oversee procurement, installation, and commissioning of mechanical equipment and structures.
• Collaborate with civil, electrical, and project management teams for seamless execution.
• Conduct site inspections and provide technical support during construction.
• Identify and mitigate mechanical risks throughout the lifecycle.
• Prepare technical reports and documentation for stakeholders.
• Troubleshoot and resolve on-site design/installation issues.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of mechanical practices.

Skills

Problem solving

Analytical thinking

Decision-making

Communication

Negotiation

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CAD software

Simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading developer in sustainable energy infrastructure, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer to contribute to their significant renewable energy projects in the Upington, Northern Cape region. This role is critical for overseeing the mechanical design, integration, and implementation of large-scale solar and potentially wind energy systems. You will be responsible for ensuring the integrity, efficiency, and reliability of mechanical components and structures throughout the project lifecycle, from initial design to construction and commissioning. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in project engineering within the renewable energy sector, a strong understanding of structural and mechanical principles, and the ability to manage complex technical challenges in a remote, challenging environment. This is a key role contributing to South Africa's green energy transition.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical engineering aspects for renewable energy projects, including solar farms and potential wind installations.
• Review and approve mechanical designs, calculations, and technical specifications.
• Ensure mechanical systems comply with project requirements, industry standards, and regulatory guidelines.
• Oversee the procurement, installation, and commissioning of mechanical equipment and structures.
• Collaborate closely with civil, electrical, and project management teams to ensure seamless project execution.
• Conduct site inspections and provide technical support during the construction phase.
• Identify and mitigate mechanical engineering risks throughout the project lifecycle.
• Prepare technical reports, progress updates, and documentation for project stakeholders.
• Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical design and installation issues encountered on site.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of mechanical engineering practices within the company.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in mechanical engineering, with at least 4 years focused on renewable energy projects (solar, wind).
• Proven experience in project engineering or design management for large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Strong understanding of structural mechanics, materials science, and civil engineering principles related to energy infrastructure.
• Familiarity with relevant international standards (e.g., IEC, ISO) and South African National Standards (SANS).
• Experience with CAD and simulation software is beneficial.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills for effective stakeholder management.
• Ability to work effectively in challenging field conditions and potentially remote locations in the Northern Cape.

Benefits

• Competitive contract rate commensurate with experience and project demands.
• Opportunity to work on high-impact renewable energy projects.
• Significant exposure to the rapidly growing green energy sector in South Africa.
• Accommodation and travel allowances provided for site-based work.
• Potential for contract extension or further opportunities within the company.
• Work experience in the unique environmental conditions of Upington, Northern Cape, ZA.
• Collaborative team environment focused on sustainable development.