Job Description

Mechanical Engineer - 6 Month Contract

Job Purpose:

To design and specify mechanical systems and equipment required for the effective operation of the 10,000-capacity beef cattle feedlot and high-throughput abattoir. The Mechanical Engineer will ensure that systems are reliable, cost-effective, energy-efficient, and compliant with relevant standards for agro-processing infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities:

Assess mechanical system requirements for: Livestock handling and feeding equipment (feed mixers, conveyors, pumps). Abattoir operations (slaughter lines, dehiding, evisceration, chilling, and packaging systems). HVAC systems for temperature-controlled environments. Waste processing systems (blood tanks, fat traps, biogas or compost systems). Design mechanical layouts and equipment plans in collaboration with architects and other engineers. Specify appropriate machinery and technologies for: High-throughput meat processing. Hygiene and cleaning (pressure washers, steam cleaning systems). Refrigeration, ventilation, and air handling units (AHUs). Evaluate the feasibility of integrating energy-efficient and sustainable mechanical systems (e.g., solar thermal, heat recovery, biogas). Ensure all mechanical systems comply with SANS codes, occupational health and safety regulations, and agro-processing hygiene standards. Prepare mechanical cost estimates, risk assessments, and procurement specifications. Provide technical content for the feasibility report related to mechanical design, maintenance needs, and operational efficiency. Collaborate with electrical, civil, and structural engineers to ensure system integration.

Minimum Qualifications and Experience:

Bachelor's Degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering. Minimum of

5 years' relevant experience

, including mechanical system design for

abattoirs, food processing plants, or agricultural infrastructure

.

Registered with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA)

as a

Pr. Eng

or

Pr. Tech Eng

. Proven experience in rural or semi-urban infrastructure development projects is advantageous.

Key Skills and Competencies:

Proficiency in mechanical design and drafting tools (AutoCAD Mechanical, SolidWorks, Revit MEP, etc.). Deep understanding of agro-processing mechanical systems and hygiene standards. Strong knowledge of maintenance planning, durability, and mechanical safety. Ability to develop practical and cost-effective mechanical solutions. Excellent communication and multidisciplinary coordination skills.

Working Conditions:

Based in the Eastern Cape with fieldwork at the Ngqushwa project site. Split between office-based design work and on-site infrastructure evaluation.
Job Type: Temporary
Contract length: 6 months

Education:

Bachelors (Required)
Experience:

mechanical system design: 5 years (Required)
License/Certification:

Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) (Required)
Work Location: In person

Application Deadline: 2025/06/30