Technical Draughtsman / R&D Technician

SUMMARY:
Technical Draughtsman / Research and Development Technician

POSITION INFO:
Qualification

• Matric / Senior Certificate
• Draughting qualification, mechanical trade, toolmaking background, N4/N5/N6 mechanical qualification, Technikon diploma, or other relevant technical qualification.

• 3–5 years’ relevant experience in mechanical draughting, tooling, machining, manufacturing, product development, or a similar technical environment.
• Experience with manual lathes, milling machines, toolroom equipment, or general workshop equipment.
• Experience operating or working directly with CNC lathes and/or CNC milling machines.
• Strong 2D and 3D CAD capability.
• Ability to prepare clear manufacturing drawings with dimensions, tolerances, materials, fits, and revision control.
• Good understanding of mechanical components, machining processes, and manufacturing principles.
• Comfortable working in a factory environment and communicating with machinists, toolmakers, CNC operators, quality staff, and production personnel.
• Competent in the use of basic measuring equipment such as verniers, micrometers, thread gauges, height gauges, and similar inspection tools.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work in a structured, methodical manner.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Energetic, proactive, dependable, and willing to take ownership of technical tasks.

• Prepare accurate and detailed product drawings, tooling drawings, and manufacturing drawings.
• Create and update 2D and 3D drawings for existing products, new products, tooling, fixtures, and R&D projects.
• Take measurements from physical parts, samples, tools, and customer products for drawing, reverse engineering, or product improvement purposes.
• Assist with product development and product improvement projects through technical drawing, design input, measurement, and practical factory support.
• Work closely with the Managing Director on research and development projects.
• Assist with prototype manufacture, sample preparation, factory trials, and technical project follow-up where required.
• Liaise with production, tooling, quality, CNC operators, and other internal stakeholders to ensure that drawings are practical, clear, and manufacturable.
• Ensure drawings include the correct dimensions, tolerances, fits, materials, surface finish requirements, heat treatment notes, and revision details where applicable.
• Maintain an organised and structured approach to drawing control, revision control, and document management.
• Ensure drawings are completed according to company standards, specifications, and required processes.
• Communicate effectively with internal stakeholders to clarify technical requirements and ensure correct execution.
• Follow up on technical tasks in the factory to help ensure projects move forward efficiently and do not lose momentum.