Mechanical Design Engineer

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.

Documentation & Compliance

1. Quality and robustness of mechanical designs
2. On-time delivery of design milestones
3. Design for manufacturability and cost effectiveness
4. Support to commissioning and successful project handover
5. Engineering innovation and continuous improvement

• BEng / BSc / BTech in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• Professional registration (or working towards) is advantageous.

• 38+ 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

• Strong proficiency in 3D CAD (SolidWorks, Inventor, Creo, or similar).
• Experience producing detailed manufacturing drawings and BOMs.
• Basic familiarity with PDM/PLM systems advantageous.

• 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)

• 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

• Experience with automation or robotic systems
• Exposure to FMEA, risk assessments, CE marking or machinery compliance

Consultant: Angie Botes - Dante Personnel Greenstone