Senior Mechanical Design Engineer – Bulk Materials Handling

**Mechanical Engineering \| Mining \& Minerals Processing \| Materials Handling Systems** An established engineering organisation is seeking an experienced **Senior Mechanical Design Engineer** to provide specialist technical expertise across the design, development, optimisation and modernisation of bulk materials handling equipment and systems. This opportunity is suited to a technically accomplished Mechanical Engineer with extensive experience in **conveyor systems, stackers, reclaimers and associated bulk materials handling equipment** within mining, mineral processing and industrial environments. The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering technically sound, commercially viable engineering solutions across new\-build projects, equipment upgrades, refurbishment programmes and operational improvement initiatives. We’re looking for an engineer who combines **strong mechanical design capability with practical equipment knowledge, technical problem\-solving skills and the ability to engage confidently with clients and multidisciplinary engineering teams** . **The Opportunity** As **Senior Mechanical Design Engineer – Bulk Materials Handling** , you’ll provide technical leadership across engineering design, equipment optimisation, project execution and technical support activities. You’ll be involved throughout the engineering lifecycle, from concept development and detailed design through equipment installation, commissioning, troubleshooting and performance improvement. The position requires a strong understanding of the mechanical design and operation of bulk materials handling systems, together with the ability to evaluate engineering challenges and develop practical, cost\-effective solutions. You’ll work closely with engineering specialists, project teams, suppliers and clients to deliver reliable equipment solutions that meet operational requirements and recognised engineering standards. This is a technically focused role offering exposure to both new equipment projects and the improvement of existing materials handling installations. **Key Responsibilities** **Mechanical Engineering \& Design** * Lead and undertake mechanical engineering design activities for bulk materials handling equipment and associated systems. * Develop engineering solutions for new installations, equipment modifications, upgrades and refurbishment projects. * Design and evaluate conveyor systems, stackers, reclaimers and other heavy\-duty materials handling equipment. * Prepare and review engineering calculations, technical specifications, drawings and design documentation. * Conduct equipment assessments and recommend design improvements to enhance performance, reliability and maintainability. * Ensure engineering designs meet operational requirements, project specifications and applicable standards. * Evaluate equipment configurations, mechanical components and supplier proposals to determine technical suitability. * Provide technical input throughout the engineering and project execution lifecycle. **Bulk Materials Handling Equipment** Provide specialist engineering expertise across a range of equipment, including: * Belt conveyor systems and associated mechanical components. * Stackers and reclaimers. * Tipplers and bulk material unloading systems. * Spreaders and associated material distribution equipment. * Ship loaders and related bulk handling installations. * Supporting mechanical systems and equipment used in mining, processing and stockyard operations. Responsibilities will include evaluating equipment performance, identifying opportunities for improvement and developing engineering solutions for both new and existing installations. **Engineering Software \& Technical Analysis** * Apply specialist engineering software to support mechanical design, calculations and equipment analysis. * Undertake conveyor design and evaluation using **Sidewinder and/or Belt Analyst** . * Develop and review engineering models and drawings using relevant CAD platforms. * Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to ensure the effective integration of mechanical and structural design requirements. * Review engineering deliverables for technical accuracy, functionality and compliance. * Support the development of practical, technically justified engineering recommendations. **Technical Support, Troubleshooting \& Commissioning** * Provide specialist technical support during equipment installation, commissioning and operational activities. * Investigate mechanical equipment failures, performance limitations and recurring operational problems. * Participate in equipment inspections, troubleshooting and root cause investigations. * Develop corrective engineering solutions to improve equipment reliability and availability. * Support maintenance, repair, refurbishment and equipment modernisation activities. * Provide technical guidance during equipment breakdowns and operational challenges. * Work alongside site\-based teams to resolve complex mechanical engineering issues. **Project Engineering \& Technical Coordination** * Provide technical input into project proposals, engineering scopes and equipment specifications. * Support engineering activities from initial concept through detailed design and execution. * Coordinate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to ensure design integration and project delivery. * Review supplier documentation, technical submissions and equipment specifications. * Participate in technical evaluations and supplier selection processes. * Ensure engineering solutions are technically sound, commercially appropriate and aligned with project objectives. * Support installation and commissioning teams during project execution. **Client Engagement \& Technical Advisory** * Engage with clients to understand operational challenges, equipment requirements and engineering objectives. * Provide specialist technical advice on equipment design, performance and improvement opportunities. * Support technical discussions, site assessments and engineering reviews. * Contribute to tender submissions, technical proposals and equipment evaluations. * Identify opportunities for equipment upgrades, refurbishment and engineering improvements. * Provide technical training and guidance relating to equipment operation and maintenance. * Build effective working relationships with clients, suppliers and engineering stakeholders. **Safety, Quality \& Engineering Standards** * Ensure engineering activities comply with applicable technical standards, safety requirements and quality procedures. * Incorporate safe design principles into engineering solutions. * Promote equipment reliability, maintainability and operational safety. * Identify engineering risks and recommend appropriate mitigation measures. * Support continuous improvement in engineering design, equipment performance and technical service delivery. **About You** We’re looking for a technically strong Mechanical Engineer with demonstrated experience in the **design and engineering of heavy\-duty bulk materials handling equipment** . **Qualifications \& Professional Requirements** * A **Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering** or an equivalent relevant qualification. * A postgraduate qualification in Mechanical Engineering would be advantageous. * A qualification or specialised training in **conveyor design and operation** . * Professional registration with **ECSA** , or eligibility and willingness to obtain registration. **Technical Experience** * A minimum of **5 years’ experience in the design of bulk materials handling equipment and systems** . * Proven experience in the engineering and design of conveyor systems. * Practical exposure to equipment such as stackers, reclaimers, tipplers, spreaders or ship loaders. * Experience within mining, mineral processing, stockyard operations or similar heavy industrial environments. * Strong understanding of mechanical equipment design, functionality and operational requirements. * Experience in equipment installation, commissioning and technical support. * Exposure to equipment refurbishment, modification and modernisation projects. * Demonstrated troubleshooting and mechanical problem\-solving capabilities. * Ability to interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications and equipment documentation. * Experience working with multidisciplinary engineering teams. * Strong understanding of engineering standards, safety requirements and quality assurance practices. **Engineering Software** Experience with the following software would be highly relevant: * **Sidewinder and/or Belt Analyst** – Conveyor design and analysis. * **Autodesk Inventor** – Mechanical design and modelling. * **AutoCAD** – Engineering drawings and design documentation. * **Tekla and/or Autodesk Advance Steel** – Structural modelling and engineering coordination. **Personal Attributes** * Strong analytical and technical problem\-solving skills. * Ability to develop practical and commercially viable engineering solutions. * Excellent communication and technical reporting capabilities. * Confidence engaging with clients, suppliers and multidisciplinary project teams. * Strong attention to detail and commitment to engineering quality. * Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with others. * A proactive, solutions\-focused approach to engineering challenges. * Willingness to undertake regular travel to project and operational sites.