Job Title: Design Office Manager
Location: Alberton
Industry: Mechanical Engineering / Wastewater Treatment
Salary: R 50 000.00 – R 70 000.00


The Design Office Manager is responsible for leading and managing the design function, ensuring the development of accurate fabrication drawings and mechanical designs that meet quality standards, project specifications, and production timelines. The role requires strong technical expertise, leadership skills, and a solutions-driven approach to support manufacturing operations and project delivery.

Responsibilities:

• Review and approve design drawings before release to procurement and manufacturing teams.
• Assign design tasks and interpret project specifications for clarity.
• Develop 3D models and assemblies using CAD software (SolidWorks).
• Produce detailed fabrication drawings and specifications for mechanical equipment.
• Resolve workshop and fabrication issues as needed.
• Review and provide feedback on proposals, designs, and specifications for wastewater equipment.
• Modify designs to address operational inefficiencies or production challenges.
• Perform or review mechanical design calculations.
• Troubleshoot design-related issues and implement corrective actions.
• Track workshop progress and ensure quality control during equipment fabrication.
• Generate Bills of Materials (BoMs) and Bills of Fabrication (BoFs), and assign part numbers.
• Participate in R&D efforts, including prototyping and testing.
• Conduct on-site visits to gather measurements and troubleshoot issues with wastewater systems.
• Compliance & Governance
• Ensure that all designs comply with relevant specifications and standards.
• Support ISO 9001:2015 implementation and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain up-to-date and realistic program schedules for ongoing projects.
• Provide progress reports and ensure timely delivery of project milestones.
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Liaise with project managers, workshop teams, supply chain, and procurement.
• Collaborate with clients and sales teams to understand design requirements.
• Manage and develop the performance of the design team.
• Implement policies, procedures, and KPIs for designers and engineers.
• Delegate tasks effectively and oversee workflow within the design office.
• Identify training needs and facilitate development within the design/engineering team.
• Establish and maintain procedures for effective design operations.
• Receive and allocate new design work from sales and project management.

Requirements:

• Tertiary qualification in Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum of 3–5 years in a managerial role within a design or engineering environment.
• Proficient in SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office and Outlook.
• Solid understanding of engineering and design principles.
• Experience in the wastewater treatment industry is advantageous.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• High attention to detail and excellent organizational abilities.
• Proactive mindset with strong problem-solving skills

How To Apply:

• Contact Hire Resolve today for your next career-changing move
• Our client is offering a highly competitive salary for this role based on experience.
• Send your CV to: engineering@hireresolve.za.com or connect with Mischa Bornman via LinkedIn.
• Alternatively, you can also contact me directly at Hire Resolve mischa.bornman@hireresolve.us 
• We will contact you telephonically in 3 days should you be suitable for this vacancy. If you are not suitable, we will put your CV on file and contact you regarding any future vacancies that arise.