Composite Design Engineer

About the role

Our client in Tedderfield, Johannesburg is looking for a technically skilled Composite Design Engineer to create 3‑D models, 2‑D drawings and tooling documentation for composite parts. The role supports engineers, the manufacturing team and tooling fabricators to ensure parts are accurate, lightweight and production‑ready.

Key responsibilities

• Create accurate 3D CAD models and 2D drawings of composite components, assemblies and sub‑structures.
• Develop mould layout drawings, surface models, trim templates and laminate stack‑up details.
• Produce fabrication drawings for masters, plugs, moulds, fixtures and trim jigs, ensuring manufacturability.
• Work directly with the composite shop to refine lay‑up manuals, cure cycles and trimming guides, incorporating shop‑floor feedback.
• Translate engineering requirements into complete composite documentation packages and assist with laminate schedules.
• Maintain up‑to‑date drawings in the PDM system, applying revision control and drafting standards.

Required profile

• N4/N5 or higher qualification in Drafting, Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 2–4 years of experience in composite drafting or modelling (aerospace, marine or automotive preferred).
• Proficiency with MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and SolidWorks or similar CAD software.
• Ability to work with complex free‑form surfaces while maintaining model integrity.
• Understanding of composite materials, lay‑up processes, mould design and cure cycles.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to communicate technical information clearly.

Required skills

• SolidWorks (or equivalent CAD software)
• MS Excel
• MS Word
• MS Outlook
• CAD modelling of composite parts
• Composite drafting and documentation