Mechanical Engineer – Heavy Industry (Richards Bay)

About the role

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join a globally recognised engineering and industrial services organisation operating in the aluminium and heavy industry sectors. The role is based in Richards Bay, South Africa, and involves delivering innovative mechanical solutions across the full equipment lifecycle.

Key responsibilities

• Provide mechanical engineering support from concept design through installation, maintenance and optimisation of industrial equipment.
• Create detailed 2D and 3D CAD drawings using AutoCAD, Autodesk Inventor and related tools while adhering to ISO standards.
• Perform mechanical design calculations, including load analysis, tolerance assessment and material specification.
• Manage Bills of Materials (BOMs) in SAP, ensuring data accuracy and system integrity.
• Collaborate with clients, suppliers and international engineering teams to develop tailored technical solutions.
• Conduct site visits to evaluate equipment performance and recommend improvements.
• Support production and project teams to ensure compliance with engineering standards and HSEQ requirements.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (BSc or BEng).
• 3‑5 years of experience in mechanical design and drafting, preferably in heavy industry, manufacturing or equipment fabrication.
• Strong problem‑solving ability with a focus on quality and continuous improvement.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work with cross‑functional and international teams.

Required skills

• AutoCAD
• Autodesk Inventor
• SolidWorks (advantageous)
• SAP (BOM management)
• Mechanical design calculations
• Load analysis