Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Aerospace Components (Remote)

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 98,000 - 141,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for a fully remote role in aerospace. You will translate complex requirements into robust, high‑performance designs that meet stringent safety and reliability standards, collaborating with a global team.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years in aerospace mechanical design, expert CAD/FEA skills (CATIA V5/V6, SOLIDWORKS, ANSYS/NASTRAN), and knowledge of aerospace materials and processes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering.
• 8+ years in mechanical design with aerospace components.
• Proficiency in CATIA V5/V6 and SOLIDWORKS; strong FEA experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design of complex aerospace components and systems, ensuring compliance with industry specs and regulatory requirements (FAA, EASA).
• Create detailed designs, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings using 3D CAD tools.
• Perform stress, fatigue, thermal and vibration analyses using FEA tools to validate designs.
• Collaborate with aerodynamics, materials, manufacturing and QA teams to ensure feasibility and manufacturability.
• Develop and execute testing protocols for prototypes and flight hardware; implement design changes as needed.
• Manage design documentation including MRB actions and ICDs.
• Provide mentorship to junior engineers and troubleshoot issues throughout the lifecycle.

Skills

Leadership of remote teams

Analytical thinking

Aerospace design knowledge

Technical communication

Education

BSc/BEng in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

CATIA V5/V6

SOLIDWORKS

ANSYS/NASTRAN/PATRAN

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished player in the aerospace manufacturing sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for a fully remote position. This role is crucial for the design, development, and validation of critical mechanical components and systems for aerospace applications. You will be responsible for translating complex engineering requirements into robust, high-performance designs that meet stringent industry standards for safety and reliability. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned engineer to contribute to cutting-edge aerospace projects from anywhere within South Africa, leveraging advanced design tools and methodologies. You will collaborate with a global team of experts, driving innovation and ensuring the highest levels of quality and technical excellence. Join a company renowned for its commitment to innovation and its contribution to the advancement of aerospace technology.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the mechanical design and development of complex aerospace components and systems, ensuring adherence to strict industry specifications and regulatory requirements (e.g., FAA, EASA). Utilize advanced 3D CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SOLIDWORKS) to create detailed designs, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings for components such as structural elements, mechanisms, and housings. Conduct comprehensive engineering analyses, including stress, fatigue, thermal, and vibration analysis, using FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN) to validate design integrity under extreme conditions. Collaborate closely with aerodynamicists, materials specialists, manufacturing engineers, and quality assurance teams to ensure design feasibility and manufacturability. Develop and execute rigorous testing protocols for prototypes and flight hardware, analyzing results, and implementing design modifications as necessary. Manage design documentation, including technical specifications, Material Review Board (MRB) actions, and interface control documents (ICDs). Stay abreast of the latest advancements in aerospace materials, manufacturing processes, and design technologies. Provide technical mentorship and guidance to junior engineers within the design team. Troubleshoot and resolve complex design and manufacturing issues throughout the product lifecycle.

Requirements

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering from an accredited institution. Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in mechanical design, with a significant focus on aerospace components and systems. Proficiency in advanced CAD software (CATIA V5/V6, SOLIDWORKS) and advanced FEA analysis tools (ANSYS, NASTRAN/PATRAN). In-depth understanding of aerospace materials, manufacturing processes (e.g., precision machining, composite fabrication, additive manufacturing), and relevant industry standards. Proven experience in designing for extreme environments, high-reliability applications, and stringent performance requirements. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Strong communication, collaboration, and leadership capabilities, with the ability to work effectively in a remote team environment. Familiarity with aerospace certification processes and regulatory frameworks. Experience with DFMA (Design for Manufacturing and Assembly) principles.

Benefits

This role offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package tailored to attract top talent. As a fully remote position, you will enjoy exceptional flexibility and work-life balance, enabling you to work from your preferred location within South Africa. Our client provides extensive opportunities for professional development, including access to specialized training, industry conferences, and career advancement paths. Comprehensive health insurance, retirement savings plans, and performance bonuses are included. You will be part of an elite team working on challenging and groundbreaking aerospace projects, contributing to the future of flight.