Lead Design Engineer

SUMMARY:
Lead Design Engineer | Cape Town
Engineering | Full-time | On-site
 
Our client is an established engineering and manufacturing business operating within a technical production environment. They require a detail-driven Lead Design Engineer to take ownership of machine design, drawing control, and continuous improvement of production equipment and processes.
 
This role is suited to a hands-on, structured individual who can balance technical design with practical application on the factory floor.

POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities

• Create and update detailed technical drawings for new and existing machinery and components
• Design machine layouts, P&IDs, and site plans based on project requirements
• Improve existing designs to enhance efficiency, reliability, and performance
• Ensure all drawings issued for manufacturing are accurate, complete, and production-ready
• Conduct design reviews and obtain approvals from relevant stakeholders
• Support production and maintenance teams with design improvements and machine modifications
• Assist with new machine design using CAD modelling, calculations, and technical application
• Manage drawing standards, revisions, and configuration control
• Maintain accurate records and ensure all designs are correctly stored and version controlled
• Ensure compliance with engineering standards, specifications, and safety requirements
• Compile and maintain machine manuals and technical documentation
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives related to design and production processes
• Collaborate with R&D, Projects, and Engineering teams on design enhancements
• Provide technical support and input across departments
• Report on design activities, progress, and upcoming tasks

• BEng Mechanical Qualification essential
• Proven experience in a design engineering role within a manufacturing environment
• Strong CAD experience (Solid Edge or similar)
• Experience designing production machinery, components, and layouts
• Solid understanding of manufacturing processes and machine functionality
• Strong attention to detail with a structured, process-driven approach
• Ability to manage multiple design tasks and meet deadlines