Remote plumbing design engineer – luxury hospitality
Company
Utopia Design
Location
Johannesburg
Job Type
Internship
Posted
7 days ago
Via
via BeBee
Apply On
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.
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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Quick answers about Electrician Jobs
What is the minimum wage for Electrician Jobs in South Africa in 2026?
As per the Department of Employment and Labour, the National Minimum Wage for electricians in South Africa is R30.45 per hour as of 1 March 2026, equating to R5,478 per month for a 45-hour week. Electricians must receive at least 1.5 times this rate for overtime beyond 45 hours weekly. This applies under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act sectoral determinations.
What qualifications and experience are required for electrician jobs in South Africa?
As per the Department of Employment and Labour, applicants need an NQF Level 4 Electrical Engineering qualification plus a minimum of 3 years registered apprenticeship completed by 2026. A valid Wireman’s Licence from the Department is mandatory for installation work. No exceptions apply for unregistered candidates in formal employment.
What are the standard working hours and annual leave for electricians in South Africa?
As per the Department of Employment and Labour, electricians work a maximum of 45 hours per week with no more than 9 hours daily under the BCEA as of 2026. They receive 21 consecutive days of paid annual leave after 12 months of service plus 10 public holidays. Sick leave totals 30 days over 3 years.
How are electricians taxed on salaries in South Africa for the 2026 tax year?
As per SARS, electricians earning R237,101 to R370,500 annually pay 26% tax on income above R237,100 with rebates of R17,235 for under-65s as of the 2026/27 year. Monthly PAYE deductions apply automatically for salaries above R95,750 per year. UIF contributions remain at 1% of salary up to R17,712 monthly.
