Engineering Manager _ Mechanical at University of Cape Town

Requirements include:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering (B.Eng or BSc Eng) (NQF Level 8)
• Professional mechanical engineer (Pr.Eng in good standing (ECSA)) with at least 10 years’ relevant experience in mechanical engineering, including operations, maintenance, and project design.
• Proven leadership and management experience in directing multi-disciplinary teams. Strong knowledge of HVAC systems, service water heating (boilers, heat pumps), fire protection and life safety systems, lifts and elevators, gas installations, pumps, and specialized mechanical equipment.
• Familiarity with mechanical and fire safety codes, SANS standards, ASHRAE, NFPA, EN regulations, and OHS Act legislation.
• Computer Literacy with proficiency in MS Office 365, MS Word, Ms Excel, Ms Outlook, MS Power BI.
• Knowledge of Autodesk AutoCAD and Revit (for design drawing reviews, as-built updates, and project integration). Computerised Management Maintenance System (CMMS) modules (linked to Archibus or similar) for preventative and corrective maintenance scheduling. Building Management Systems (BMS) and integration with SCADA platforms for HVAC, fire detection, and vertical transportation systems. HVAC Design & Analysis Software Standards and Codes - National: SANS 10400 (Building Regulations – Fire Protection), SANS 347 (Pressure Equipment), OHS Act, SANS 10139 (Fire Detection), SANS 10287 (Boilers), SANS 10252/3 (Water Services), Gas Regulations, Lift Regulations.
• Valid South African Driver’s License (Minimum Code B).
• Medically fit with ability to work at height and in confined spaces.

Responsibilities include but not limited to:

• Lead and manage the Mechanical Business Unit, including engineers, inspectors, technicians, and support staff.
• Oversee the operation, maintenance, and optimisation of all mechanical systems across UCT campuses (HVAC, boilers, pumps, lifts, fire systems, gas, and specialised mechanical equipment).
• Ensure statutory compliance, safety, and risk management across all mechanical infrastructure and fire safety systems.
• Coordinate, review, and approve mechanical designs for all minor and major projects, ensuring compliance with UCT standards and regulatory requirements.
• Drive energy efficiency initiatives, monitor mechanical utility performance, and identify opportunities for consumption and cost reduction.
• Manage specialised faculty-procured equipment requiring mechanical integration (e.g., lab HVAC, fume cupboards, clean rooms).
• Lead lifecycle asset management, preventative maintenance programmes, and reliability improvement initiatives.
• Oversee contractor performance, service level agreements, and quality assurance of all mechanical works.
• Contribute to building a strong P&S culture, promoting teamwork, accountability, and professional integrity in all operations.