Technical Draughtsman / R&D Technician

SUMMARY:
Technical Draughtsman / Research and Development Technician

POSITION INFO:
Qualification Matric \/ Senior Certificate Draughting qualification, mechanical trade, toolmaking background, N4\/N5\/N6 mechanical qualification, Technikon diploma, or other relevant technical qualification. Requirements 3-5 years' relevant experience in mechanical draughting, tooling, machining, manufacturing, product development, or a similar technical environment. Experience with manual lathes, milling machines, toolroom equipment, or general workshop equipment. Experience operating or working directly with CNC lathes and\/or CNC milling machines. Strong 2D and 3D CAD capability. Ability to prepare clear manufacturing drawings with dimensions, tolerances, materials, fits, and revision control. Good understanding of mechanical components, machining processes, and manufacturing principles. Comfortable working in a factory environment and communicating with machinists, toolmakers, CNC operators, quality staff, and production personnel. Competent in the use of basic measuring equipment such as verniers, micrometers, thread gauges, height gauges, and similar inspection tools. Strong attention to detail and ability to work in a structured, methodical manner. Good verbal and written communication skills. Energetic, proactive, dependable, and willing to take ownership of technical tasks. Duties Prepare accurate and detailed product drawings, tooling drawings, and manufacturing drawings. Create and update 2D and 3D drawings for existing products, new products, tooling, fixtures, and R&D projects. Take measurements from physical parts, samples, tools, and customer products for drawing, reverse engineering, or product improvement purposes. Assist with product development and product improvement projects through technical drawing, design input, measurement, and practical factory support. Work closely with the Managing Director on research and development projects. Assist with prototype manufacture, sample preparation, factory trials, and technical project follow-up where required. Liaise with production, tooling, quality, CNC operators, and other internal stakeholders to ensure that drawings are practical, clear, and manufacturable. Ensure drawings include the correct dimensions, tolerances, fits, materials, surface finish requirements, heat treatment notes, and revision details where applicable. Maintain an organised and structured approach to drawing control, revision control, and document management. Ensure drawings are completed according to company standards, specifications, and required processes. Communicate effectively with internal stakeholders to clarify technical requirements and ensure correct execution. Follow up on technical tasks in the factory to help ensure projects move forward efficiently and do not lose momentum.