Lead Mechanical Engineer - Mining Equipment

Placements24; United States; Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 102,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Pension fund

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer to guide design and development of heavy-duty mining equipment in Welkom, Free State. This senior role requires leadership, strong expertise in mechanical design, and the ability to manage a team across concept to production release.

You will perform advanced analyses, set design standards, and collaborate with clients and internal teams to ensure reliable, safe, and innovative solutions in demanding environments.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field is required.
• 10+ years in mechanical engineering with heavy industrial equipment experience.
• Proven track record leading engineering teams and complex projects.
• Expertise in advanced mechanical analysis tools and CAD software.

Responsibilities

• Lead design of mining equipment from concept to production release.
• Mentor and manage a team of mechanical engineers.
• Perform advanced analyses (FEA, fatigue, vibration) for reliability and safety.
• Develop design standards and best practices for heavy machinery.
• Collaborate with clients, R&D, and manufacturing to meet requirements.
• Oversee prototyping, testing, and validation of new designs.
• Troubleshoot field issues with effective design solutions.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources.

Skills

Leadership

Team mentoring

FEA

CAD (SolidWorks/CATIA)

Vibration analysis

Education

Masters in Mechanical Engineering

PhD (asset)

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

FEA/CFD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer of heavy-duty mining equipment, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Lead Mechanical Engineer to guide their design and development efforts in Welkom, Free State. This senior position demands strong leadership qualities and extensive expertise in the design of robust mechanical systems capable of operating in demanding mining environments. You will be responsible for overseeing a team of engineers, driving innovation, and ensuring the structural integrity and performance of complex machinery. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in project leadership, a deep understanding of materials science and stress analysis, and a passion for developing solutions that meet the rigorous challenges of the mining industry. This role offers a hybrid work model, providing a blend of on-site collaboration and remote flexibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical engineering design process for new mining equipment, from concept development through to production release.
• Manage and mentor a team of mechanical engineers, assigning tasks, reviewing work, and fostering professional development.
• Conduct advanced engineering analysis, including FEA, fatigue analysis, and vibration studies, to ensure equipment reliability and safety.
• Develop and implement design standards and best practices for heavy machinery.
• Collaborate with clients, R&D, and manufacturing departments to define project requirements and ensure successful product outcomes.
• Oversee the prototyping, testing, and validation of new designs, ensuring they meet performance specifications and operational demands.
• Troubleshoot complex mechanical issues encountered in the field and implement effective design solutions.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Stay updated on technological advancements in mining equipment and engineering practices.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field; a PhD is a strong asset.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in mechanical engineering, with a substantial focus on heavy industrial equipment, preferably in the mining sector.
• Proven experience in leading engineering teams and managing complex design projects.
• Expertise in advanced mechanical analysis tools (FEA, CFD) and CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA).
• Deep understanding of material selection, manufacturing processes, and failure analysis in harsh environments.
• Strong knowledge of hydraulics, pneumatics, and power transmission systems relevant to heavy machinery.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet challenging deadlines.

Benefits

• A highly competitive executive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive benefits package including excellent medical aid, life insurance, and pension fund.
• Significant opportunities for career growth and leadership development.
• Generous annual leave and paid time off.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and resources.
• A challenging yet rewarding work environment focused on innovation and impact.