Our Company
SAO Energy is a renewable-energy investment, development, and service company, dedicated to transforming Africa’s energy landscape by providing sustainable, reliable, and clean power to underserved communities, institutions, and businesses. As a portfolio company of the SAO Group of companies, SAO Energy blends innovation, impact, and enterprise to deliver energy solutions across sub-Saharan Africa.
We are on a mission to eliminate energy poverty, particularly in rural and underserved regions by delivering cutting-edge renewable energy solutions that power homes, healthcare centres, businesses, schools, and public utilities. Our purpose is to provide sustainable and affordable electricity that supports economic development, improves quality of life, and fosters environmental sustainability.
At SAO Energy, we are powered by an outstanding, diverse, and highly skilled team of professionals who bring together deep technical expertise, creativity, and a shared commitment to impact. Our people are united by a common purpose of transforming Nigeria’s energy landscape through sustainable solutions that improve lives, strengthen communities, and accelerate national development. We foster an inclusive culture where every team member feels valued, supported, and empowered to contribute their best.
We have very exciting, diverse projects across our portfolio companies ranging from a N35 bn Infrastructure Bond Issuance, a US$60 m renewable energy project, US$45 m education infrastructure, US$100 m Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone amongst other projects.
Role Summary
The Mechanical Engineer will be responsible for designing, maintaining, and improving mechanical systems, equipment, and infrastructure across SAO Group’s operations in Ilorin. The role ensures efficient machinery performance, reduced downtime, safe operations, and continuous optimization of mechanical processes. The ideal candidate is highly technical, hands-on, and comfortable managing both preventive and corrective maintenance in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
1. Mechanical Systems Maintenance
- Conduct routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and repairs on machines, engines, tools, and mechanical systems.
- Diagnose mechanical faults and implement timely corrective actions to minimize downtime.
- Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, equipment performance, and service logs.
2. Design & Technical Support
- Support in designing, modifying, and improving mechanical components and systems for farm, industrial, or energy operations.
- Provide technical support for installation, testing, and commissioning of new machinery.
- Ensure systems comply with engineering standards and operational requirements.
3. Operations & Process Optimization
- Improve mechanical efficiency, safety, and reliability of equipment.
- Recommend and implement upgrades, optimization strategies, and cost-saving initiatives.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance productivity and equipment utilization.
4. Procurement & Resource Management
- Assist in sourcing and selecting mechanical parts, tools, and equipment.
- Supervise the use of mechanical resources to ensure proper handling and accountability.
- Liaise with vendors, service providers, and contractors when required.
5. Safety & Compliance
- Ensure all mechanical operations align with safety regulations, environmental standards, and internal policies.
- Conduct safety assessments and participate in training for machinery handling.
- Support compliance documentation and audits.
Required Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
- 8+ years’ experience in mechanical engineering, maintenance, or industrial operations (preferably agriculture, manufacturing, or energy).
- Strong technical knowledge of mechanical systems, engines, processing equipment, and industrial tools.
- Experience with preventive and corrective maintenance systems.
- Proficiency in CAD tools (AutoCAD, SolidWorks) is an advantage.
- Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
Key Competencies
- Hands-on mechanical skills
- Strong problem-solving ability
- Good communication and teamwork
- Attention to detail and safety awareness
- Ability to work with minimal supervision
- High integrity and professionalism
