Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Advanced Robotics

Placements24; Belgique; Remote; EUR 49,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to lead the design of complex robotic systems and components in Paarl. You will drive CAD modeling, simulations, and manufacturability decisions while collaborating with electrical, software, and manufacturing teams.

The role requires mentoring junior engineers, conducting prototype validation, and documenting technical specifications to support production.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering required; Master's preferred.
• 8+ years of progressive mechanical design and product development experience in robotics or complex machinery.
• Proven proficiency in 3D CAD modeling and parametric design (SolidWorks or CATIA)
• Demonstrated experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for structural, thermal, and vibration analysis
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes (CNC, injection molding, 3D printing) and design for manufacturability (DFM)
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
• Effective communication and teamwork across cross-functional groups
• Experience with motion control systems, sensors, and actuators is a plus

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of complex mechanical systems for advanced robotics, ensuring performance and manufacturability.
• Create detailed 3D models, 2D drawings, and assemblies using CAD tools.
• Perform stress, thermal, and dynamic simulations using FEA to optimize components.
• Collaborate with electrical, software, and manufacturing teams to ensure integrated designs.
• Oversee prototyping, testing, and validation, documenting results and iterating as needed.
• Develop and maintain design specs, test procedures, and BOMs.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to department growth.
• Stay updated on mechanical engineering and robotics advancements.

Skills

3D CAD Modeling

SolidWorks

CATIA

FEA

DFM

Manufacturing processes

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

SolidWorks (CAD)

CATIA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the advanced robotics sector, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their dynamic team in Paarl, Western Cape. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking projects, pushing the boundaries of innovation in automated systems. You will be instrumental in conceptualizing, designing, and validating next-generation robotic components and systems. This position demands a blend of creative problem-solving, rigorous analytical skills, and a deep understanding of mechanical principles. The successful candidate will work within a collaborative environment, contributing to all phases of the product development lifecycle, from initial ideation to production support. This is a fantastic chance to make a significant impact in a rapidly evolving industry and grow your career within a forward-thinking organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of complex mechanical systems and components for advanced robotic applications, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and manufacturability.
• Utilize CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) to create detailed 3D models, 2D drawings, and assemblies, adhering to industry best practices and internal standards.
• Conduct thorough stress analysis, thermal analysis, and dynamic simulations using FEA tools to predict and optimize component behavior under various operating conditions.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers, software developers, and manufacturing specialists, to ensure seamless integration of mechanical designs.
• Oversee prototyping, testing, and validation of new designs, documenting results and iterating based on feedback and performance data.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including design specifications, test procedures, and Bill of Materials (BOMs).
• Identify and implement innovative design solutions to overcome technical challenges and improve product efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the technical growth of the engineering department.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in mechanical engineering, materials science, and robotics technology.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in mechanical design and product development, with a significant focus on complex machinery or robotics.
• Proven proficiency in 3D CAD modeling and parametric design (SolidWorks or CATIA experience highly desirable).
• Demonstrated experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for structural, thermal, and vibration analysis.
• Strong understanding of material properties, manufacturing processes (e.g., CNC machining, injection molding, 3D printing), and design for manufacturability (DFM).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen attention to detail.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.
• Experience with motion control systems, sensors, and actuators is a plus.