Graduate Mechanical Engineer

Recruiter:

Network Recruitment

Job Ref:

NES027622/Wes

Date posted:

Thursday, August 20, 2026

Location:

Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Salary:

180000 Annually

SUMMARY:

Graduate Mechanical Designer

Kick-Start Your Engineering Career in Machine Design & Automation
You’ve spent years learning engineering theory, completing projects, solving calculations, and imagining the machines you could one day create.
Now it's time to take that knowledge off the classroom whiteboard and into the real world.
A leading engineering and automation business is looking for a Graduate Mechanical Designer to join its growing design team. This opportunity is ideal for a recent Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering graduate who is eager to learn, develop practical design experience, and work alongside experienced engineers on custom-built manufacturing and automation solutions.
This is more than an entry-level position. It's an opportunity to gain exposure to the complete engineering lifecycle, from concept development and design through to assembly, commissioning, and final implementation.

POSITION INFO:

What You'll Learn and Be Exposed To

Mechanical design and detailing of special-purpose machinery
Engineering change requests, fixture design, and tooling applications
Concept development and practical problem-solving
Stress, force, and accuracy calculations
Material selection and manufacturing processes
Design release packages and manufacturing documentation
Cross-functional collaboration with assembly and commissioning teams
Engineering best practices and ISO-controlled design processes
Cost-conscious design and continuous improvement principles

Who We're Looking For

National Diploma, BTech, Bachelor's Degree, or higher qualification in:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
Recent graduate or candidate with limited industry experience
Basic understanding of machine design principles
Exposure to FEA and engineering calculations
Knowledge of material specifications and manufacturing processes
Basic hand-sketching and concept development skills
Strong communication and teamwork abilities
Good time management and organizational skills
Code 8 Driver's License
Fluent in English
Afrikaans advantageous
German language skills advantageous

You'll Succeed If You Are

Passionate about engineering and innovation
Curious about how machines are designed and built
Eager to learn from experienced engineers
Comfortable asking questions and taking initiative
Motivated to develop your technical abilities
Excited by the opportunity to turn ideas into working solutions

What Makes This Opportunity Different?

Many graduate roles limit your exposure to a small part of the engineering process.
This role offers the chance to work closely with designers, assembly teams, and commissioning specialists while developing practical engineering skills that universities simply cannot teach. You'll receive mentorship, real project exposure, and the opportunity to build a strong foundation for a long-term career in mechanical design and automation engineering.

Your engineering degree got you to the starting line. This opportunity could define where your career goes next.
Apply directly or send your CV to:

If you have not received feedback within 14 days of your application, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Similar jobs you might be interested in:

Graduate Mechanical Engineer
Location: Port Elizabeth
Salary: 180000 Annually
graduate mechanical DesignerKick-Start Your engineering Career in Machine Design & AutomationYou’ve spent years learning engineering theory, completing projects, solving calculations, and imagining the machines you could one day create.Now it's time to take that knowledge off the classroom whiteboard and into the real world.A leading engineering and automation business is looking for a G...
Today

Mechanical Design Graduate
Location: Port Elizabeth
Salary: Market related
Deliver engineering designs and solutions specific to customer requirements and / or specifications.
22 days ago

Mechanical Design Graduate
Location: Port Elizabeth
Salary: Market related
Deliver engineering designs and solutions specific to customer requirements and / or specifications.
22 days ago

Mechanical Design Graduate
Location: Port Elizabeth
Salary: Market related
Deliver engineering designs and solutions specific to customer requirements and / or specifications.
51 days ago

Mechanical Design Graduate
Location: Port Elizabeth
Salary: Market related
Deliver engineering designs and solutions specific to customer requirements and / or specifications.
79 days ago

Junior Mechanical Designer
Location: Port Elizabeth
Salary: 180000 Annually
Junior mechanical DesignerEast London / GqeberhaWhat if your first engineering role wasn't about maintenance and repetitive drawings, but about creating machines that solve real-world manufacturing challenges?As a young engineer, you're looking for more than just a job. You want exposure. You want mentorship. You want to see your ideas become reality.We are partnering with a leading engineering an...
Today

Production Engineer Graduate
Location: Port Elizabeth
Salary:
78 days ago

Control Systems Engineer
Location: Port Elizabeth
Salary: Market related
Design, develop and commission world-class automated manufacturing systems, etc.
16 days ago

Solutions Engineer (Sales & Marketing)
Location: Port Elizabeth
Salary: Market related
Develop innovative solutions & quotations based on customer requirements, etc.
17 days ago

Solutions Engineer (Sales & Marketing)
Location: Port Elizabeth
Salary: Market related
Develop innovative solutions & quotations based on customer requirements, etc.
20 days ago