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 disclosed
About Us
We 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 Engineer
This 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 Responsibilities
Interpret and challenge project specifications and client documentation
Develop mechanical system designs including equipment specs, datasheets, calculations, and drawings
Lead interface coordination with multidisciplinary teams across locations
Perform condition surveys and support site teams during installation and commissioning
Conduct technical reviews of supplier/subcontractor inputs
Manage design effort against budget, schedule, and quality targets
Supervise junior engineers and ensure adherence to standards and QA processes
Promote safety, innovation, and continuous improvement throughout project delivery
Present engineering solutions confidently in stakeholder environments
About You
ECSA-registered (Pr Eng or Pr Tech) with a BTech or BSc in Mechanical Engineering
Minimum 12 years of experience in mechanical design for water/wastewater infrastructure
Strong knowledge of hydraulic systems, sludge rheology, and system dynamics
Skilled in CAD design, hydraulic calculations, and equipment selection
Familiar with UK water industry standards and international safety regulations
Excellent communicator with strong leadership, mentoring, and stakeholder engagement skills
Able to manage multiple complex projects in a collaborative environment
Proficient in Microsoft Office and committed to ongoing professional development
Working hours: Monday to Friday, 8am5pm (SAST), based in Cape Town with regular virtual collaboration with UK teams.
Welcome to The Legends Agency!
We are a premier Employer of Record (EOR) partner dedicated to helping global businesses build and manage exceptional teams in South Africa.
Our comprehensive, full-service solutions empower organizations to navigate the complexities of local employment while ensuring compliance, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
At The Legends Agency, we specialize in connecting international companies with top talent in South Africa, streamlining the hiring process, and managing payroll, compliance, and benefits seamlessly.
Our commitment to excellence ensures that our clients can focus on their core business while we handle the intricacies of workforce management.
Whether you’re looking to expand your team or establish a presence in the region, we provide tailored solutions that meet your unique needs. Let us help you create a legendary team that drives success and innovation.
We can save you money on salaries and social premiums and provide you with skilled English-speaking talent.
Explore more about our services at www.the-legends-agency.com or Mail us for details anthony.kettle@the-legends-agency.com.
