Remote plumbing design engineer – luxury hospitality

Remote plumbing design engineer – luxury hospitality

Johannesburg, South Africa

Company
Utopia Design
Location
Johannesburg
Job Type
Internship
Posted
7 days ago
Via
via BeBee

Job Description
About The Company About The Company Utopia is a forward-thinking global real estate development group dedicated to creating a distinctive portfolio of luxurious and high-end hospitality assets.At Utopia, we’re building more than properties — we’re crafting extraordinary experiences. Founded in 2023, our in-house architectural firm, Utopia Design , is at the heart of our mission to create a global portfolio of luxurious, high-end hospitality destinations. As part of a growing real estate development group, Utopia Design brings bold vision and innovative thinking to every project we take on.We’re a young, ambitious team driven by creativity, excellence, and the belief that great design transforms the way people live, travel, and connect.

From concept to completion, we’re reimagining what luxury means in today’s world — and we’re just getting started.If you're passionate about design, architecture, and shaping the future of global hospitality, we invite you to grow with us.About The Role We are looking for a dynamic and experienced Plumbing Design Engineer to support the ongoing design development of several luxury projects worldwide, with a focus on boutique hospitality assets. This role requires a creative and technical professional who can deliver efficient and innovative engineering solutions while maintaining the aesthetic and functional standards expected in luxury developments.In this role, you will be responsible for designing and developing engineering systems for luxury villas and boutique hotels. You should be able to work independently, coordinate with the team as needed, and deliver intermediate results on a weekly basis.

You will report to the MEP Design Manager while collaborating with the entire design team, including architects, interior designers, structural engineers, the FF&E procurement team, and client representatives.To succeed in this role, you must demonstrate technical rigor, precise problem-solving, and the ability to maintain strict quality benchmarks. We're looking for a detail-oriented, self-organized professional who can turn complex engineering requirements into actionable insights for luxury hospitality systems.What You Will Do

Design and oversee MEP systems for luxury villas and hotels, ensuring full compliance with building codes and high-end industry standards.

Collaborate with architects and interior designers to seamlessly integrate electrical, HVAC, and plumbing systems into the overall project aesthetic.

Proactively participate in spatial coordination with architectural and structural models, research efficient methodologies, equipment, and systems to secure the initial design intent and high-end user experience

Timely resolution of technical issues and challenges during the design phase

Lead the development of detailed technical drawings and specifications using CAD and Revit, supported by BIM modelers.

Perform load calculations and system sizing to optimize performance.

Oversee equipment selection, ensuring it aligns with project requirements and sustainability goals.

Provide input during value engineering discussions to achieve the best balance between cost, quality, and performance

Supervise the design development, review, and approve deliverables of third party designers, consultants, and surveyors.

Stay updated on the latest technologies, trends, and regulations related to drainage, supply, and distribution systems in the luxury and hospitality sectors. Requirements

Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Civil or Building Engineering with a concentration in plumbing, drainage, pools and storm drainage systems.

8 to 15 years of experience in design consultancy or general contractor

Experience working on low-rise residential and hospitality projects - private homes and villas, hotels and resorts

Excellent communication and presentation skills

Proficiency in Revit and Auto CAD

Professional level of English, both written and verbal

Good to have

Spanish Nice to have

Experience with international hotel chains (e.g., W, Four Seasons, AMAN) and their specific corporate design guidelines.

Spanish proficiency What We Can Offer

Full-time, remote role

Competitive compensation

Collaboration within a professional, international, multidisciplinary team The opportunity to work on a world-class luxury development project. Utopia does not provide visa sponsorship for this position.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Plumber Jobs in South Africa

Q What is the national minimum wage for entry-level plumbers in South Africa in 2026?
As per the Department of Employment and Labour, the national minimum wage applicable to entry-level plumbers is R32.18 per hour effective 1 March 2026. This amounts to R6,300 per month based on 45 ordinary hours per week over 4.33 weeks. Overtime is paid at 1.5 times the normal rate up to 15 hours per week.
Q What salary can a qualified plumber artisan expect in the construction sector in South Africa in 2026?
According to the Department of Employment and Labour's sectoral determination for the construction industry, qualified plumber artisans earn a minimum of R35,200 per month as of 1 March 2026. This rate applies in bargaining council areas like Gauteng and includes provisions for tool allowances of R1,200 quarterly.
Q What work visa do foreign plumbers need to work in South Africa in 2026?
Foreign plumbers require a General Work Visa sponsored by a South African employer, as plumbers are not on the Critical Skills List. The application fee is R1,520, with processing taking 8-10 weeks at a Department of Home Affairs Visa Facilitation Services Centre. A job offer and proof of qualifications are mandatory.
Q What qualifications and experience are required for plumber jobs in South Africa?
Plumber jobs require a National Certificate (Vocational) NQF Level 4 in Plumbing or an artisan trade test certificate from an accredited centre. No prior experience is needed post-trade test for entry-level artisan roles, but 3 years of apprenticeship is standard for qualification.
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