Design Draughtsman
Available for exploratory interviews.
Ref: EP21094383
Company classification: Manufacturing / OEM ( Tier 1 & 2) (products, equipment and/or machinery) Industry in: Engineering - Electrical | Electronic Power - Generation | Transmission | Distribution - Transformers | Generators | Power Electronics Highest formal qualification and other: Diploma Discipline: Fitting and Turning Years of experience range: d. 6 to 10 years (a. Less than 1 year management) Annual package range: South African Rand - ZAR Annual package range: 151 000 - 250 000, per annum Nationality: Zimbabwean Home and other languages: English, Zulu, Other Gender: Male Ethnicity: African/Black Candidate location: South Africa Location preference: I am open to positions both nationally and internationally.
Online Interview Questionnaire
Primary purpose of current/most recent position:
Engineering Drawings: Compile and create accurate engineering drawings, ensuring compliance with relevant standards and specifications.
General Arrangement Drawings: Prepare general arrangement drawings, providing a comprehensive overview of the designed components or structures.
3D Modeling: Develop and create 3D models using appropriate software, contributing to the visualization and understanding of the designs.
Cutting Lists: Generate and update cutting lists in adherence to Drawing Office Standards, facilitating the efficient production of components.
Site Measurements: Conduct on-site measurements to gather accurate data for design purposes.
Component Selection: Select the most suitable components for designs, demonstrating a thorough understanding of materials and specifications.
Communication: Maintain effective communication with various departments, fostering collaboration and ensuring alignment with project requirements.
Production Schedules: Keep production schedules up to date, providing timely and accurate information on the current status of projects.
Core elements or functions that must operate effectively in order to achieve primary purpose:
Design Proficiency , Technical and Problem-Solving Skills,Communication Skills,Independence and Initiative,Time Management,Attention to Detail,Material and Component Knowledge,Site Measurement Skills,Adaptability,Collaboration
Description of self, along with greater purpose and passions:
I would describe myself as a technically driven, solutions-oriented individual with a passion for creating functional, efficient designs that solve real-world problems. My core skills lie in mechanical design, sheet metal development, and precision manufacturing, where I apply both creativity and engineering principles to deliver practical, high-quality outcomes.
Beyond my technical abilities, I’m someone who thrives on continuous learning and improvement. Whether it's mastering a new software tool, understanding advanced manufacturing processes, or collaborating across departments, I’m always seeking ways to grow and contribute more effectively.
At a deeper level, my greater purpose is to make a meaningful impact through engineering — building things that not only work, but make life easier, safer, or more efficient for others. I’m passionate about using my skills to bridge the gap between concept and creation, and being part of projects that bring lasting value to people, companies, and communities.
Ideal business title:
Lead Design Engineer
Key responsibilities and accountabilities of ideal position:
Conceptual and Detailed Design
Creating and developing accurate 3D models and technical drawings for mechanical components, sheet metal assemblies, and fabricated structures using CAD software such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD
Product Development and Innovation
Involvement in the full product development cycle — from initial concept through to prototyping, testing, and final production — with a focus on functionality, manufacturability, and cost-efficiency.
Engineering Calculations and Analysis
Performing relevant engineering calculations and stress analysis to ensure designs meet required standards and performance criteria.
Technical Documentation
Generating detailed BOMs (Bill of Materials), assembly instructions, and technical datasheets for manufacturing and quality control purposes.
Cross-Department Collaboration
Working closely with production, procurement, and quality teams to ensure that designs are feasible, cost-effective, and meet all required specifications.
Project Management Support
Supporting project timelines by delivering designs on schedule, and assisting in project planning and coordination when required.
Standards and Compliance
Ensuring all designs comply with relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and internal quality procedures.
Continuous Improvement
Actively contributing to design reviews and implementing feedback to improve product performance, reduce waste, and streamline production processes.
Skill area of competence:
Sheet Metal Design & Development:
Proficient in designing custom sheet metal components and assemblies for industrial and commercial applications. Skilled in flat pattern development, bending allowances, and part optimization for manufacturing.
CAD Modelling & Drafting:
Advanced skills in SolidWorks (CSWP Certified), AutoCAD, and Solid Edge. Capable of producing detailed 3D models, technical drawings, and fabrication-ready outputs including DXFs and BOMs.
Product Design & Prototyping:
Experience taking a concept from sketch to prototype and production, with a focus on manufacturability, cost-efficiency, and durability. Worked on cabinets, trailers, fire suppression units, and custom enclosures.
Manufacturing Support & CNC Programming:
Hands-on knowledge of CNC operations including programming punching machines using TruTops and nesting software such as SigmaNest. Skilled in reading technical drawings and collaborating with production teams to solve fabrication challenges.
Mechanical Drafting & Engineering Principles:
Strong understanding of mechanical engineering fundamentals, applied to real-world designs. Capable of interpreting specifications, applying GD&T, and conducting tolerance analysis.
Team Collaboration & Project Coordination:
Experienced in working across departments — from design and engineering to production and procurement — to meet project deadlines, reduce rework, and deliver quality products.
Documentation & Quality Control:
Competent in creating technical documentation, including assembly instructions, design reports, and revision control. Familiar with quality assurance processes and standards in fabrication.
Career summary:
Sheet Metal Design & Fabrication 2+ years Design and manufacturing of fire suppression systems, extinguisher cabinets, and trailers (Republic Metal Works & Nakuza Electrical).
Wood Pattern Design (Casting Patterns) 3 years Extensive experience in wood pattern modeling and production coordination at MCC Manufacturing.
Mechanical Drafting & Engineering Design 4+ years General experience across all roles including sheet metal, product design, CAD modeling, and prototype development.
Firefighting Equipment (Cabinets & Trailers) 1 year Involved in designing firefighting trailers and cabinets specifically at Republic Metal Works.
Manufacturing & Assembly 4+ years Across multiple roles, involved in coordinating with production teams, assisting fitters, and supporting assembly lines.
CAD Software – SolidWorks, Solid Edge, SigmaNest 4+ years Used consistently throughout career, including CSWP certification and training in FEA, Weldments, etc.
Punching Machine Programming (Trutops) <1 year Programmed punching machines during time at Nakuza Electrical.
Fire Suppression Systems Design 1 year Designed systems such as fire containment units at Republic Metal Works.
Mechanical Fitting & Maintenance (Training) 3.5 years Training-level experience as a Fitter Assistant at Unique Trading & Outsourcing.
Fabrication & Welding Processes 1–2 years (supportive role) Assisted or worked with welding and fabrication during production and maintenance tasks.
What do you absolutely love doing:
I absolutely love designing and building practical solutions from concept to completion. There's something deeply satisfying about turning an idea into a real, functional product — especially when it involves precision, problem-solving, and a good challenge. I enjoy working with CAD tools like SolidWorks to create detailed sheet metal and mechanical designs, optimizing them for both performance and manufacturability.
Ideal company (culture and values):
I would like to work for a company that values innovation, precision, and continuous improvement. Ideally, it should have a strong engineering culture where creativity and problem-solving are encouraged, and where technical excellence is recognized and supported.
The company should foster a collaborative and respectful work environment, where open communication and teamwork are at the core of its operations. I value a workplace where knowledge-sharing is encouraged, mentorship is available, and everyone—regardless of position—is committed to delivering high-quality results.
In terms of values, I align with companies that are customer-focused, quality-driven, and committed to ethical practices. A culture that prioritizes safety, accountability, and sustainability is important to me, as is one that invests in the professional growth of its employees through training and career development opportunities.
Ultimately, I want to be part of a team that is not only passionate about engineering and design, but also committed to making a meaningful impact through its products and solutions.
If you are looking for a Design Draughtsman, then do get in touch.
Call the Head Office – Gauteng, SA. + 27 10 597 0862.
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