Mechanical Design Engineer (Cape Town)

Requirements: Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks) is crucial. Candidates should ideally come from a stainless-steel manufacturing background and have experience working with small machinery. A bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering is required. Relevant certifications (like CSWA for SolidWorks) can enhance job prospects but may not replace the need for formal education. 3 years of practical experience through internships or previous roles in mechanical design or the food industry is required. Practical, application-based experience is essential to meet the demands of this hands-on role. The team operates in a highly collaborative environment, so we are looking for candidates who exhibit resilience, patience, and the ability to guide a team on projects. The ideal candidate should also be deadline-driven, resourceful, and have strong communication skills to liaise with both Mechanical Engineers and other departments. Awareness of various food processing methods (e.g., thermal processing, packaging technologies) can aid in designing relevant machinery. Knowledge of sanitary design principles to ensure equipment can be cleaned easily and meets hygiene standards essential in the food sector. Understanding of how different food materials behave under stress (rheology and material properties) to influence design decisions related to equipment handling and processing. A solid foundation in mechanical engineering concepts, including materials science, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics, is essential for designing effective machinery and equipment used in food processing. Familiarity with industry regulations (e.g., FDA guidelines) and safety standards is beneficial for ensuring that designs comply with health regulations and do not compromise food safety. The ability to manage projects effectively—planning, executing, and closing projects while coordinating with various stakeholders—is important for timely delivery of engineering solutions. A strong creative mindset to develop innovative solutions for unique challenges in food processing and packaging. Precision and attention to detail are critical in design work, especially in the food industry, where safety and compliance with regulations are paramount. Effective communication is necessary for collaboration with cross-functional teams, including production, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance. Engineers need to be adept at identifying issues and developing practical solutions quickly, particularly in fast-paced environments like the Technical Innovation Centre.  Responsibilities and expectations but not limited to: Design and Development: Conceptualization: Generate innovative ideas for new products, processes, or equipment tailored to the food and beverage sector. 3D Modeling: Use software like SolidWorks to create detailed 3D models and simulations of machinery, packaging, or product designs. Prototyping: Develop prototypes for testing and evaluation to ensure designs meet performance and safety standards. Process Engineering: Equipment Specification: Determine specifications for machinery and equipment used in food processing, ensuring compliance with industry standards. Sanitary Design: Implement sanitary design principles to ensure that equipment can be easily cleaned and maintained, adhering to food safety regulations. Quality Assurance: Testing and Validation: Conduct experiments and tests to validate the functionality and safety of designs before full-scale production. Quality Control: Develop and implement quality control measures throughout the production process to maintain high standards. Project Management: Project Planning: Manage projects from conception through execution, including budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation. Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with other departments such as marketing, production, and quality assurance to align engineering efforts with business goals. Documentation: Prepare detailed reports, documentation, and presentations regarding project progress, design specifications, and compliance issues. Research and Development: New Product Development (NPD): Participate in the entire NPD lifecycle, from ideation through market launch, focusing on creating products that meet consumer needs. Sustainability Initiatives: Explore sustainable practices in design and production processes to reduce environmental impact. Troubleshooting and Support: Technical Support: Provide technical assistance during the installation of new equipment or systems in production facilities. Problem Solving: Address operational issues related to machinery or processes promptly to minimize downtime. Training: Train staff on new equipment or processes to ensure proper operation and maintenance.  Please note should you not receive a response within two weeks of applying you may assume that your application was unsuccessful.

Location: Cape Town City Centre, ZA

Posted Date: 10/5/2024