Job Description

About Optimal:

Optimal is a dynamic and forward-thinking consultancy committed to optimising asset performance and reliability across diverse industries. We partner with clients in sectors ranging from industrial manufacturing and energy to infrastructure and utilities, helping them unlock greater value from their physical assets. We pride ourselves on delivering pragmatic, data-driven solutions that enhance operational efficiency, reduce risk, and extend asset life.

The Opportunity:

We are seeking a competent and autonomous Asset Performance Engineer to join our South Africa office. This permanent role provides the opportunity to work across multiple clients and industries, supporting the deployment of condition monitoring solutions, operational performance monitoring systems, and physical asset verification activities. You will operate independently at client sites while collaborating closely with the Client Relationship Manager to ensure consistent delivery and high-quality outcomes.

Role Overview:

As an Asset Performance Engineer you will provide technical implementation support for condition monitoring and operational performance improvement initiatives. You will perform vibration data acquisition and analysis, assist with the setup and validation of performance monitoring platforms and support asset verification and broader reliability engineering activities. You will represent Optimal on-site, engage with client teams and ensure that work is delivered to required standards with minimal supervision.

Key Responsibilities:

Deploy condition monitoring systems, acquire vibration data, and perform CAT I/II analysis to diagnose asset condition. Support deployment and configuration of production performance monitoring systems, ensuring correct equipment connectivity, data flow, and validation. Conduct field-based physical asset verification, asset register audits, tag validation, and asset hierarchy checks. Perform reliability engineering activities such as failure investigation, basic FMEA, RCM input preparation, asset health assessments, and data analysis. Prepare technical documentation, diagnostic reports, data summaries, and implementation notes. Engage with client operations, engineering, and maintenance teams during system rollout and support phases. Provide troubleshooting and technical assistance on-site and remotely to resolve data or system-related issues. Maintain accurate and complete records of asset condition, performance findings, and engineering recommendations. Work closely with the Client Relationship Manager to prioritise activities, align with client expectations, and ensure smooth delivery.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

BEng or BTech in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or Mechatronics Engineering. 2-6 years' experience in maintenance, reliability, rotating equipment, or industrial operations. Certification in vibration analysis CAT I or CAT II. Demonstrated ability to work independently on client sites with minimal supervision. Experience with condition monitoring tasks, technical data analysis, or asset performance reporting. Competence using spreadsheets and analytical tools for engineering assessments. Strong diagnostic reasoning and structured approach to problem-solving. Clear and concise communication, both written and verbal. Familiarity with reliability engineering methods or asset management frameworks. Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with both technical teams and senior client stakeholders. Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and deliver high-quality work within agreed timelines on an intermittent basis. Willingness to travel within South Africa and occasionally internationally.

Desired Skills & Attributes:

Familiarity with reliability engineering methods or asset management frameworks. A proactive and collaborative attitude, eager to integrate with and empower existing teams. Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and translate it into actionable insights. Flexibility and adaptability to work on varied projects across different industries. A passion for continuous learning and staying abreast of industry trends and innovations.

Engagement Model:

This is a permanent role based in South Africa. Work will be primarily on-site at the Optimal office and at client facilities, supported by remote collaboration with key technology partners. Travel to client sites will be required, with travel expenses reimbursed according to company policy.

How to Apply:

If you are are an early career Asset Management professional looking for impactful engagements with a leading consultancy, please submit your CV/resume along with a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and availability to careers@optimal.world

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: R15842,37 - R27756,90 per month

Application Question(s):

Do you hold Certification in vibration analysis?
Education:

Bachelors (Preferred)
Experience:

vibration analysis: 1 year (Preferred)
Work Location: In person