Mechanical Design Engineer

Location: Randburg

SA - Gauteng, Randburg Mechanical Design Engineer (Special Purpose Machinery)
Based in Kya-sand, Radburg, Johannesburg
RNeg
Minimum requirements:
Role Purpose
The Mechanical Design Engineer will be responsible for the concept development, detailed mechanical design, and engineering support of bespoke machines and automated systems. The role focuses on transforming customer requirements into robust, manufacturable, and cost-effective machine designs, supporting projects from concept through to commissioning.

This position is suited to an engineer who thrives in custom machine environments, enjoys hands-on problem solving, and can work closely with electrical, controls, and manufacturing teams.

Key Responsibilities
Concept & Design
Detailed Engineering
Project Support
Manufacturing & Workshop Interface
Documentation & Compliance

Key Performance Areas

Quality and robustness of mechanical designs

On-time delivery of design milestones

Design for manufacturability and cost effectiveness

Support to commissioning and successful project handover

Engineering innovation and continuous improvement

Minimum Requirements (Qualifications)

BEng / BSc / BTech in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.

Professional registration (or working towards) is advantageous.

Experience

3–8+ years experience in bespoke machinery or automation system design.

Proven track record designing special-purpose machines, not mass-produced products.

Experience in environments such as:

Industrial automation

Packaging machinery

Assembly/test systems

Robotics or material handling

Production equipment

Software

Strong proficiency in 3D CAD (Solid Works, Inventor, Creo, or similar).

Experience producing detailed manufacturing drawings and BOMs.

Basic familiarity with PDM/PLM systems advantageous.

Technical Competencies

Mechanism and machine design

Pneumatics and basic hydraulics

Drives, motors, gearboxes, bearings

Structural and frame design

Tolerance analysis and GD&T

Design for safety and compliance

Practical manufacturing knowledge (machining, fabrication, assembly)

Personal Attributes

Strong engineering problem-solver

Comfortable working in project-based, deadline-driven environments

Able to communicate effectively with customers, suppliers, and internal teams

Hands-on mindset — willing to go into the workshop and onto site

Well organised, documentation-driven

High level of accountability and ownership

Desirable (Advantageous)

Experience with automation or robotic systems

Exposure to FMEA, risk assessments, CE marking or machinery compliance

Consultant:
Angie Botes - Dante Personnel Greenstone