Principal Mechanical Design Engineer (Water/Wastewater)Lead complex water infrastructure projects across the UK and South Africa in a high-growth engineering environment.Cape Town-based | Salary not disclosedAbout UsWe are a multidisciplinary engineering and design team working at the forefront of water and wastewater infrastructure projects. Our focus spans the entire project lifecycle from feasibility and concept through to detailed design and construction support. With strong growth and new framework awards, we are expanding our Cape Town-based design function to collaborate closely with UK teams and deliver innovative, compliant solutions.The Role: Principal Mechanical Design EngineerThis is a senior engineering position leading mechanical design elements across major water, wastewater, and flood defence projects. You will guide technical delivery, oversee multi-discipline integration, and support project success from concept to commissioning.Key ResponsibilitiesInterpret and challenge project specifications and client documentationDevelop mechanical system designs including equipment specs, datasheets, calculations, and drawingsLead interface coordination with multidisciplinary teams across locationsPerform condition surveys and support site teams during installation and commissioningConduct technical reviews of supplier/subcontractor inputsManage design effort against budget, schedule, and quality targetsSupervise junior engineers and ensure adherence to standards and QA processesPromote safety, innovation, and continuous improvement throughout project deliveryPresent engineering solutions confidently in stakeholder environmentsAbout YouECSA-registered (Pr Eng or Pr Tech) with a BTech or BSc in Mechanical EngineeringMinimum 12 years of experience in mechanical design for water/wastewater infrastructureStrong knowledge of hydraulic systems, sludge rheology, and system dynamicsSkilled in CAD design, hydraulic calculations, and equipment selectionFamiliar with UK water industry standards and international safety regulationsExcellent communicator with strong leadership, mentoring, and stakeholder engagement skillsAble to manage multiple complex projects in a collaborative environmentProficient in Microsoft Office and committed to ongoing professional developmentWorking hours: Monday to Friday, 8am5pm (SAST), based in Cape Town with regular virtual collaboration with UK teams.
