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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about Plumber Jobs
What is the minimum hourly wage for qualified plumbers in South Africa from 1 March 2026?
The Department of Employment and Labour sets the National Minimum Wage at R28.79 per hour for plumbers as of 1 March 2026. This applies to all Sectoral Determination 13 workers with overtime paid at 1.5 times the rate after 45 hours per week. Employers must display the wage schedule at every workplace.
Which trade test certificate is required to legally work as a plumber in South Africa in 2026?
Candidates must hold a Red Seal trade certificate issued after passing the QCTO trade test at an accredited centre. The certificate number must be registered on the National Artisan Database by 31 December 2025 for 2026 employment. No plumber may be employed without this qualification under the Skills Development Act.
How many annual leave days and sick leave days are plumbers entitled to under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act in 2026?
Plumbers receive 21 consecutive days of paid annual leave after 12 months of employment and 30 days of paid sick leave over a 36-month cycle. The leave must be taken within 6 months after the leave cycle ends or it is forfeited.
What documents must be submitted when applying for a plumber position through the Department of Employment and Labour in 2026?
Applicants must submit a certified ID copy, Red Seal certificate, proof of residence, and a completed Z83 form to the nearest labour centre. All documents must be uploaded to the ESSA online portal by 30 June 2026 for the annual placement cycle.
