Mechanical Project Engineer

SUMMARY:
If you enjoy engineering work that goes beyond calculations on a page — getting into the detail of piping systems, pumps, tanks, pressure equipment and firefighting design, while also seeing projects through from concept to execution — this role offers that breadth.

Based in Durban, you’ll join an established consulting engineering team delivering greenfield and brownfield projects across the oil & gas, petrochemical and broader industrial sectors. The work spans projects of varying scale and complexity, giving you the opportunity to apply both your technical design capability and project engineering experience.

POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities: Carry out mechanical engineering design for assigned projects through concept, basic and detailed design stages. Design and specify oil & gas and industrial piping systems and associated equipment. Perform pump sizing and selection. Design pipelines and associated ancillaries. Undertake design work relating to API 650 tanks and pressure vessels. Design firefighting systems, including foam-dosing systems. Perform hydraulic system simulations using appropriate simulation software and review calculations and simulations completed by others. Conduct plant audits and manage the mechanical design component of engineering studies. Provide mechanical engineering input for troubleshooting and plant or operations optimisation. Prepare technical investigations, engineering reports and other project documentation. Monitor engineering progress against approved schedules and budgeted manhours. Identify technical issues, design deficiencies and project risks and recommend appropriate corrective action. Coordinate with project engineers, technicians, draughtspersons and other engineering disciplines. Review engineering deliverables and, where applicable, sign off concept, basic and detailed mechanical designs for complex projects. Mentor and provide technical guidance to engineers and other members of the engineering team. Maintain awareness of developments, technologies, engineering practices and tools relevant to the mechanical and oil & gas sectors. Ensure compliance with relevant project procedures, client requirements, confidentiality obligations and applicable ISO 9001 and ISO 45001 management system Requirements: BSc or BEng degree in Mechanical Engineering. 3 - 5 years of relevant mechanical engineering experience within the oil & gas, petrochemical or a comparable process\/industrial environment. Demonstrated experience in mechanical engineering design and project execution. Experience with piping systems, pump selection and associated mechanical equipment. Working knowledge of relevant engineering codes and standards, including API, ASME, NFPA and ASTM. Good understanding of engineering project schedules, technical documentation and multidisciplinary project coordination. Computer literacy, including MS Office and MS Project. Ability to use relevant engineering design software. Strong analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills. Clear written and verbal communication skills. Willingness to travel occasionally as required by project demands. Your career is more than your next job-it's about finding an opportunity that matches your experience, ambitions and long-term goals. Assegai Recruitment partners with engineering and technical professionals across South Africa, helping them connect with employers where their skills can make a real impact. Not ready to make a move just yet? You are still welcome to get in touch for a confidential and informal career conversation. Explore our current opportunities at While we carefully consider every application, we may not be able to respond to each applicant individually. If you have not heard from us within two weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful for this particular position.