R&D Engineer (Junior/Graduate)
First seen by Alion on Nov 12, 2026.
You've earned your engineering degree. Now it's time to engineer something that makes a difference!
Are you a recent Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering graduate with a passion for innovation, product design and problem-solving? Do you want to move beyond textbooks and put your engineering knowledge into practice?
KWIKOT (HAIER) SA is looking for an ambitious Graduate R&D Engineer to join our Research & Development team!
This is an exciting opportunity to launch your engineering career with an established leader in water heating solutions, where you will gain practical, hands-on exposure to product design, 3D CAD modelling, prototyping, engineering testing and product development.
Working alongside experienced senior engineers, you will contribute to the development and improvement of innovative water heating products, learn industry standards and gain exposure to the complete product development lifecycle.
From turning concepts into 3D designs to building physical prototypes and participating in product testing, you'll have the opportunity to see your engineering ideas come to life.
This is more than your first engineering job – it's an opportunity to build the foundations of a long-term career in Research & Development, Mechanical Design and Product Innovation.
Duties & Responsibilities
1. Product Design & Development
- Assist with the design and development of new and existing water heating products.
- Support the complete product development lifecycle, from concept design and prototyping through to testing, qualification and end-of-life.
- Lead and manage assigned Category C and D engineering projects.
- Assist with identifying product improvements and developing practical engineering solutions.
2. 3D CAD Design & Engineering
- Create and modify 3D CAD models, technical drawings and assemblies using Siemens NX or similar CAD software.
- Assist with basic engineering simulations under the guidance of senior engineers.
- Support the maintenance and development of the company's 3D product library.
- Develop an understanding of engineering drawings, specifications and technical standards.
3. Prototyping, Testing & Technical Analysis
- Physically assemble and build product prototypes.
- Assist with coordinating product testing in laboratory and field environments.
- Capture test data and assist with basic engineering calculations and performance analysis.
- Evaluate test results, identify potential issues and communicate findings to senior engineers.
- Support product verification and qualification activities.
4. Engineering Documentation & Compliance
- Assist in preparing technical documentation, including design specifications, test procedures and engineering reports.
- Support compliance activities relating to applicable SANS and international engineering standards.
- Assist with maintaining technical standards and engineering documentation.
- Gain exposure to ISO requirements, Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) and Management of Change (MOC) processes.
5. Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work alongside Product Line, Production, Quality, Service and Marketing teams.
- Participate in technical and project meetings.
- Assist with monitoring project schedules, budgets and deliverables.
- Learn how engineering integrates with manufacturing, product quality and commercial operations.
Minimum Qualifications:
- BSc or BEng degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechatronics Engineering.
- Mechanical Engineering or Mechatronics specialisation is preferred.
- Recent graduate with 0–1 year's working experience.
- Basic exposure to 3D CAD software, preferably Siemens NX or similar.
- A genuine interest in mechanical design, product development, engineering innovation and water heating technologies.
- Mandarin language proficiency is essential.
Advantageous:
- Exposure to Siemens NX, SolidWorks, AutoCAD or other 3D CAD platforms.
- Basic understanding of engineering simulations and product testing.
- Knowledge of HVAC, thermal systems, water heating or related technologies.
- Understanding of engineering drawings, technical specifications and manufacturing processes.
A competitive market-related salary
Interested?Ready to Engineer Your Future?
If you're a recent Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering graduate with a passion for innovation, technology and product development, we want to hear from you!
Bring your curiosity, engineering knowledge and ambition to KWIKOT (HAIER) SA – and help shape the future of water heating technology.
Apply now through PNet today!
Only applicants who meet the essential requirements will be considered. If you have not received feedback within two weeks of your application, please consider your application unsuccessful.