Mechanical Engineer - Precision Instruments

Placements24; United States; Remote; USD 43,000 - 58,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 represents a client in Paarl, Western Cape, seeking a Mechanical Engineer with a strong background in precision engineering for high-accuracy instruments. The role focuses on designing, developing, and refining intricate mechanical components and systems, collaborating with optical, electrical, software, and metrology specialists to ensure optimal performance.

The candidate should have at least 6 years in precision mechanical design, proficiency in 3D CAD (SolidWorks, Inventor,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 6 years in mechanical design, precision engineering, instrumentation, or micro-mechanics.
• Proficiency with 3D CAD and tolerancing (GD&T).
• Experience with FEA tools for structural, thermal, and vibration analysis.
• Understanding of material properties, finishes, and micro-manufacturing processes.
• Familiarity with optical system integration is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop precision mechanical components and assemblies for scientific/industrial instruments.
• Create 3D CAD models, tolerancing schemes, and manufacturing drawings.
• Perform mechanical analysis (stress, vibration, thermal, kinematic).
• Specify materials and processes for high-precision parts.
• Oversee prototyping, testing, and validation of designs.
• Collaborate with optical, electrical, software, and metrology teams.
• Work with manufacturing partners to ensure quality fabrication and assembly.
• Investigate and resolve mechanical issues affecting performance and stability.
• Contribute to design process improvements and documentation standards.

Skills

3D CAD

GD&T

FEA

Precision engineering

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

CATIA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the development and manufacturing of high-precision scientific and industrial instruments, is seeking a dedicated Mechanical Engineer to join their esteemed team. This role is located in Paarl, Western Cape , a region with a growing technological footprint. The Mechanical Engineer will be responsible for the design, development, and refinement of intricate mechanical components and systems that form the core of our client's advanced instruments, which are utilized in fields such as laboratory analysis, metrology, and specialized manufacturing. This is a fantastic opportunity to work on highly accurate and sophisticated technologies that push the boundaries of scientific measurement and industrial precision. We are looking for an engineer with exceptional attention to detail, a strong grasp of mechanical principles, and experience with precision engineering practices. The role requires close collaboration with optical engineers, electrical engineers, software developers, and metrology specialists to ensure the seamless integration and optimal performance of complex instrument systems. Our client prides itself on innovation, quality, and precision, fostering a stimulating environment for engineers dedicated to creating world-class instrumentation. If you are passionate about precision mechanics and contributing to technological advancements, this role offers significant professional reward.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop precision mechanical components, mechanisms, and assemblies for scientific and industrial instruments.
• Create detailed 3D CAD models, tolerancing schemes, and manufacturing drawings using advanced CAD software.
• Perform mechanical analysis, including stress, vibration, thermal, and kinematic analysis, to ensure the performance and reliability of instruments under various operating conditions.
• Specify materials and manufacturing processes suitable for high-precision applications, focusing on dimensional stability and low friction.
• Oversee prototyping, experimental validation, and performance testing of mechanical designs.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to integrate mechanical systems with optical, electronic, and control elements.
• Work closely with manufacturing partners to ensure high‑quality fabrication and assembly of precision components.
• Investigate and resolve mechanical issues related to instrument performance, accuracy, and stability.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and documentation standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in mechanical design, with a focus on precision engineering, instrumentation, or micro‑mechanics.
• Proficiency in advanced 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, CATIA) with a strong understanding of tolerancing and GD&T.
• Experience with FEA tools for structural, thermal, and vibration analysis.
• Solid understanding of material properties, surface finishes, and manufacturing processes relevant to precision components (e.g., micro‑machining, fine grinding, advanced assembly).
• Familiarity with optical systems and their mechanical integration is a significant advantage.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a meticulous approach to detail.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work in a highly technical and innovative environment.
• Familiarity with cleanroom assembly or related controlled environments is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, reflecting the specialized nature of the role and the candidate's expertise. Comprehensive medical aid and a retirement fund are provided. Opportunities for ongoing professional development, including advanced technical training and attendance at relevant scientific and engineering conferences, are available. The company fosters a culture of innovation and precision in Paarl , valuing technical excellence and collaborative problem‑solving. Generous annual leave and a supportive work environment contribute to a positive work-life balance. This role presents a unique chance to work at the forefront of precision instrument technology.