Design Engineer

About David Brown Santasalo

At David Brown Santasalo, we design, manufacture, and support high-performance gear systems that power critical industrial processes around the world. With over 1,200 dedicated professionals across 25 global locations, we combine a rich heritage with cutting-edge engineering to deliver reliable, application-proven solutions.

From gear manufacturing and servicing to bespoke design and full lifecycle support, we specialise in David Brown, Santasalo, and DBS heritage gearboxes—as well as third-party systems of any make or model. Our global teams of design, application, and service engineers ensure that industries worldwide benefit from our expertise, innovation, and commitment to excellence.

This exciting opportunity is based at David Brown South Africa, home to approximately 161 employees, where you’ll contribute to a dynamic, high-performance environment that blends global standards with local impact.

Purpose of the Role

We are seeking a proactive Design Engineer who will oversee the processing of engineering orders through the drawing office by finalizing specifications, do detail design, compiling BOMs and preparing detail manufacturing drawings. To be involved in all stages of production from research and development to design and manufacture, through to installation and final commissioning.

Minimum Qualifications & Knowledge

• BEng in Mechanical Engineering is essential.
• Minimum 2-5 years in heavy engineering is essential
• Experience in relevant fields (rotating machinery, 3D CAD design and manufacturing drawings, mining equipment such as conveyors, mills, etc.)
• Experience on industrial gear reducers by being involved in manufacturing and site work
• Detailed gear/gearbox design preferred
• Knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes
• Design experience within the Mining and Power Industry would be advantageous

Key Job Accountabilities

• Detail design and 3D modeling of gears, shafts, housings and other mechanical components from engineering specifications into CAD assemblies
• Preparing of drawings for manufacturing, procurement and quotation purposes
• Gear design based on DBS standards and programs, as well as international standards.
• Component selection and compilation of BOM in SAP
• Processing all relevant paperwork such as bill of materials, purchase requisitions, prints for manufacturing purposes, report writing etc.
• General engineering administration and carry out all necessary filing associated with day to day work
• Assist with costing of jobs as required
• Application engineering and compiling of proposal packs
• Liaise with customers on and off site when required
• Work as an effective team member of the engineering team, but also work independently to achieve pre-set goals and objectives
• Due to the nature of the business, all information must be supplied in an accurate manner
• Do failure investigations and assist with site work when required
• Promote Quality and continuous improvement
• Liaise with other global DBGS engineering offices when required
• Reverse engineering including 3d Scanning
• NCR handling and shop floor problem solving
• Approval of repair scope in the aftermarket service
• Adherence to health and safety regulations ensuring a safe working environment for all
• Adherence to company policies and procedures
• Carry out any reasonable task as instructed by your manager or team leader

Key Skills & Attributes

• Understanding of various engineering fields
• Experience with the ERP systems will be advantageous
• Practical problem-solving skills
• Good communication skills (Verbal & Written)
• Computer literacy in terms of 3D Cad (Solid Edge preferred), AutoCAD and Microsoft office
• Exhibit Extreme Ownership in managing projects and daily work duties
• Self-motivated with good interpersonal and communication skills
• Production schedule driven
• Innovative, reliable
• Strong customer focus and able to work under pressure
• Decisive can-do attitude seeing nothing as impossible leading to immediate action
• Attention to detail