Principal Mechanical Engineer - Rotating Equipment

Placements24; United States; Remote; USD 150,000 - 230,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer specializing in rotating equipment to lead technical direction across pumps, compressors, turbines, and related assets. You will guide failure analyses, maintenance strategies, and capital projects to ensure reliability and operational excellence.

The role requires a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and 12+ years in mechanical engineering with at least 8 years in rotating equipment, plus strong leadership and communication skills

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
• 12+ years of progressive mechanical engineering experience, with 8+ years in rotating equipment.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, vibration analysis and material science for rotating machinery.
• Experience with API standards and industry specifications; proven failure analysis abilities.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership on rotating equipment (pumps, compressors, turbines).
• Develop maintenance and repair strategies for critical rotating assets.
• Conduct advanced failure analyses and recommend corrective actions.
• Oversee equipment specification, selection and procurement; review vendor docs.
• Lead technical reviews, HAZOP studies, and risk assessments related to rotating equipment.
• Develop performance monitoring programs to optimize efficiency.
• Mentor junior engineers and maintenance staff.
• Ensure compliance with industry codes and company policies.
• Contribute to capital projects involving rotating machinery upgrades or installations.

Skills

Rotating equipment expertise

Project management

Leadership

Communication skills

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Diagnostic tools

Monitoring systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent force in the petrochemical industry operating near Klerksdorp, North West , seeks an accomplished Principal Mechanical Engineer specializing in Rotating Equipment. This senior position is instrumental in ensuring the integrity, reliability, and optimal performance of critical rotating machinery, including pumps, compressors, and turbines. You will provide expert technical guidance, lead complex analyses, and contribute significantly to maintenance strategies and capital projects. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of rotating equipment design, failure analysis, and best practices for maintenance and overhaul, ensuring uninterrupted operations at our client's large-scale facility. This is a key role requiring deep expertise and a commitment to operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert technical leadership and consultation on all aspects of rotating equipment, including pumps, compressors, turbines, and agitators.
• Develop and implement robust strategies for the inspection, maintenance, and repair of critical rotating assets.
• Conduct advanced failure analysis investigations for rotating equipment, identifying root causes and recommending corrective actions.
• Oversee the specification, selection, and procurement of new rotating equipment.
• Review and approve vendor technical documentation and proposals.
• Lead and participate in technical reviews, HAZOP studies, and risk assessments related to rotating equipment.
• Develop and implement performance monitoring programs to ensure optimal operational efficiency.
• Mentor and guide junior mechanical engineers and maintenance personnel.
• Ensure compliance with relevant industry codes, standards, and company policies.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of capital projects involving rotating machinery upgrades or installations.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a specialized field focusing on rotating machinery.
• 12+ years of progressive experience in mechanical engineering, with a minimum of 8 years dedicated specifically to rotating equipment.
• Deep understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, vibration analysis, and material science as applied to rotating machinery.
• Proven experience with API standards and other relevant industry specifications.
• Expertise in failure analysis techniques and troubleshooting complex mechanical issues.
• Proficiency in using diagnostic tools and monitoring systems for rotating equipment.
• Strong project management and leadership skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a challenging industrial environment, potentially requiring site visits.
• Must reside within commuting distance of Klerksdorp, North West or be willing to relocate.

Benefits

Our client offers an exceptional remuneration package, including a highly competitive base salary and significant performance-based bonuses. Comprehensive family medical aid, including specialist coverage, is provided, alongside substantial contributions to a retirement fund. Extensive opportunities for professional development are available, including advanced technical training, international conferences, and leadership programs. Generous annual leave and study leave are granted. The work environment is technically challenging and operationally critical, offering exposure to cutting-edge technology and large-scale industrial processes. On-site facilities may include a cafeteria and recreational areas. This role presents a unique opportunity for career growth at the highest technical level within a leading industrial organization.