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 plumbers in South Africa in 2026?
As per the Department of Employment and Labour, the national minimum wage applicable to plumbers is R30.77 per hour effective 1 March 2026. This equates to R6,000.15 per month for a standard 45-hour week over 195 ordinary hours. Overtime rates are 1.5 times the ordinary rate for the first 10 hours per week.
Q What salary range can I expect as a qualified plumber in Gauteng in 2026?
As per the Department of Employment and Labour's Building Industry Bargaining Council Main Agreement, qualified plumbers (artisans) earn a minimum of R28,500 per month in 2026. Experienced plumbers with 5+ years receive R42,750 per month including allowances. These rates apply in Gauteng and increase annually by 7% from July 2026.
Q What work visa do foreign plumbers need to work in South Africa in 2026?
As per the Department of Home Affairs, foreign plumbers require a General Work Visa (subcategory 4.1) unless on the Critical Skills List, which includes plumbers due to shortages. Applications need a verified job offer, SAQA-evaluated NQF Level 4 plumbing qualification, and take 20-40 working days to process in 2026. Visa fees are R1,520 application plus R3,040 issuance.
Q What qualifications and experience are required for plumber jobs in South Africa?
As per the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations, plumbers need a National Certificate in Plumbing at NQF Level 4, 36 months apprenticeship including 24 months practical, and passing a trade test at an accredited centre. Zero experience entry requires NCV Level 4 from TVET college first. Artisan certificates are issued within 30 days post-trade test.
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