Job Details

JOB PURPOSE

This function plays a critical role in driving innovation by designing, developing, and optimizing advanced systems, products, and prototypes. This position combines creativity with engineering principles to deliver breakthrough solutions that align with the organization’s innovation strategy. The individual will collaborate closely with research, product development, and technology teams to transform ideas into functional designs and market-ready solutions

Under the supervision of the Innovation & Solutions Head , the following are among the Job Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the end-to-end design of innovative products, prototypes, and engineering solutions.
• Utilize CAD, simulation software, and other engineering tools to create detailed designs and blueprints.
• Ensure designs meet industry standards, regulatory requirements, and user expectations.
• Collaborate with R&D teams to brainstorm and evaluate new ideas, concepts, and technologies.
• Transform innovative concepts into viable designs through feasibility studies and prototyping.
• Identify emerging trends and integrate them into the engineering design process to maintain a competitive edge.
• Develop prototypes to validate design concepts and test functionality, durability, and performance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to iterate designs based on feedback from testing and stakeholders.
• Analyze test results and implement improvements to enhance efficiency, usability, and sustainability.
• Plan and manage design projects, ensuring timelines, budgets, and quality metrics are met.
• Work closely with product teams, vendors, and external partners to align designs with strategic goals.
• Present technical solutions and progress updates to stakeholders, translating complex ideas into clear deliverables.
• Optimize designs for cost-effectiveness, scalability, and ease of manufacturing or deployment.
• Incorporate sustainable design principles and ensure solutions align with environmental and energy efficiency standards.
• Continuously seek opportunities to improve processes, leveraging automation and new design technologies.
• Provide technical guidance to junior engineers and support staff within the innovation unit.
• Facilitate knowledge-sharing initiatives and contribute to fostering a culture of innovation within the organization.
• Any other responsibilities or tasks as maybe assigned by management.

INTERNAL/EXTERNAL CONTACT

• External: Vendors

• Internal: All internal Business Units

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Grade 12 Certificate with Credit or above mandatory in Mathematics and English and any other three subjects
• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Certifications in relevant design tools (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks, FEA software) are preferred.
• Zambia Qualifications Authority (Zaqa) Verification Certificate for Tertiary Qualifications
• 7+ years of experience with at least 5 years in product design, engineering or R&D, with a focus on innovative projects.
• Proven experience in prototyping, testing, and delivering complex designs for new or disruptive technologies.
• Strong background in agile product development methodologies and cross-functional collaboration.
• Expertise in CAD tools, 3D modeling, and simulation software.
• Knowledge of materials science, manufacturing processes, and IoT integration.
• Familiarity with rapid prototyping technologies (e.g., 3D printing) and design thinking principles.

JOB CORE COMPETENCIES

• Innovative mindset
• Problem solving skills
• Decision making skills
• Collaboration skills
• Analytical skills
• Drive for results
• Attention to detail
• Business acumen
• Adaptability
• Communication and presentation skills