Mechanical Design Engineer - Industrial Automation

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 65,000 - 98,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Mechanical Design Engineer for Queenstown, SA, focusing on automation systems and robotics. You will drive concepts to detailed mechanical designs, collaborate with electrical/controls teams, and support production and testing.

The role demands a degree in mechanical engineering and 3–5 years of design experience with CAD tools. Hybrid work is offered to balance collaboration and remote work.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in mechanical design and development.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred) and experience with basic CAE/FEA tools.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical systems for industrial automation using 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Inventor).
• Create BOMs and detailed assembly instructions.
• Perform mechanical calculations and simulations to verify design integrity.
• Collaborate with electrical and controls engineers for integrated solutions.
• Work with manufacturing to optimize for cost-effective production and ease of assembly.
• Conduct design reviews and implement improvements based on testing.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues during prototype development and field deployment.
• Research new technologies and materials to enhance performance.
• Develop technical documentation and user manuals.
• Contribute to continuous design process improvements.

Skills

Mechanical design

Robotics

Mechatronics

Reading drawings

Teamwork

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

FEA/CAE tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in designing and manufacturing automated solutions for various industrial sectors, is seeking a talented Mechanical Design Engineer to join their growing team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. This role is focused on the mechanical design and development of innovative automation systems, robotics, and specialized machinery. You will be responsible for taking concepts through to detailed design, ensuring functionality, reliability, and manufacturability. The ideal candidate will have a solid foundation in mechanical engineering principles, proficiency in CAD software, and a keen interest in automation technology. You will work closely with electrical engineers, controls specialists, and project managers to deliver integrated solutions to clients. This hybrid role offers a balanced approach, combining essential on-site collaboration with the flexibility of remote work.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical systems, components, and assemblies for industrial automation equipment using 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor).
• Create detailed engineering drawings, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and assembly instructions.
• Perform mechanical calculations and simulations (e.g., stress analysis, kinematic analysis) to verify design integrity.
• Collaborate with electrical and controls engineers to ensure seamless integration of mechanical and electrical components.
• Work with manufacturing and assembly teams to ensure designs are optimized for cost-effective production and ease of assembly.
• Conduct design reviews and implement improvements based on feedback and testing results.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues during prototype development and field deployment.
• Research and evaluate new technologies and materials to enhance automation system performance.
• Assist in the development of technical documentation and user manuals.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in mechanical design and development, preferably in industrial automation or machinery design.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred) and experience with basic CAE/FEA tools.
• Good understanding of mechanical engineering fundamentals, including mechanisms, structures, materials, and dynamics.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes such as machining, fabrication, and assembly.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and schematics.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Familiarity with robotics and mechatronics is a plus.
• Experience with hybrid work models is beneficial.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement fund contributions. Employees benefit from opportunities for professional development, exposure to diverse automation projects, and a supportive team environment. The hybrid work model allows for a healthy work-life balance. This is an excellent opportunity to grow your career in the exciting field of industrial automation in Queenstown, Eastern Cape.