Remote Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Robotics and Automation

Placements24; Willows (CA); Remote; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private health insurance

Retirement plan

Generous PTO

Home office stipend

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to design and refine the mechanical aspects of cutting-edge robotic systems from a home office. The role emphasizes leadership in 3D CAD modeling, FEA, and collaboration with distributed teams.

You will drive prototyping, testing, and validation while ensuring performance, durability, and cost efficiency. Strong remote-work skills and a Master’s degree are required.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• 7+ years hands-on mechanical design experience in robotics or automation.
• Expert CAD/FEA skills (ANSYS, COMSOL, SolidWorks Simulation).
• Remote work readiness with strong self-management.
• Knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design of robotic systems, actuators, end-effectors, and automated machinery components.
• Create detailed 3D models, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings using advanced CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, Fusion 360).
• Perform rigorous mechanical analyses including stress, thermal, vibration, and kinematic simulations using FEA tools.
• Collaborate with remote teams of electrical, software, control engineers, and PMs.
• Select materials and processes for performance, durability and cost efficiency.
• Oversee prototyping, testing, and validation of designs; iterate as needed.
• Ensure compliance with robotics industry standards and safety regulations.
• Develop and maintain design specs, BOMs, and test reports.

Skills

7+ yrs exp

Robotics

Remote work

FEA

CAD

Education

Master's degree

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

Fusion 360

ANSYS

COMSOL

SolidWorks Simulation

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading innovator in robotics and automation solutions, seeking a highly experienced Remote Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their forward-thinking, fully remote engineering department. This role is ideal for a passionate engineer who thrives on tackling complex design challenges in a flexible, work-from-home environment. You will be instrumental in designing, developing, and refining the mechanical aspects of cutting‑edge robotic systems and automated machinery. This position requires a deep understanding of mechanical engineering principles, proficiency in advanced CAD and simulation tools, and the ability to collaborate effectively within a distributed team. As a remote‑first professional, you will contribute to projects that are shaping the future of industrial automation, all from your dedicated home office space.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of robotic systems, actuators, end‑effectors, and automated machinery components.
• Create detailed 3D models, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings using advanced CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, Fusion 360).
• Perform rigorous mechanical analysis, including stress, strain, thermal, vibration, and kinematic simulations using FEA and other simulation tools.
• Collaborate closely with remote teams of electrical engineers, software developers, control engineers, and project managers using digital collaboration platforms.
• Select appropriate materials and manufacturing processes, ensuring designs meet high standards for performance, durability, and cost‑efficiency.
• Oversee prototyping, testing, and validation of mechanical designs, analyzing results and iterating on designs as needed.
• Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards and safety regulations in robotics and automation.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including design specifications, BOMs, and test reports.
• Research and implement innovative mechanical solutions and technologies to enhance robotic capabilities.
• Effectively manage time and priorities in a remote setting, ensuring timely delivery of design tasks and clear communication of progress.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience in mechanical design engineering, with a strong focus on robotics, automation, or complex machinery.
• Expert proficiency in 3D CAD software and extensive experience with FEA/simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, COMSOL, SolidWorks Simulation).
• Solid understanding of kinematics, dynamics, control systems interfaces, materials science, and manufacturing processes relevant to robotics.
• Proven ability to excel in a fully remote work environment, demonstrating strong self-management and communication skills.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical‑thinking abilities.
• Strong collaborative spirit and experience working effectively with distributed teams.
• Familiarity with common robotic components (motors, sensors, gears) and control systems integration is highly desirable.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa and able to work remotely from any location within the country.

Benefits

This fully remote role offers a competitive salary, potential for performance bonuses, and comprehensive benefits including private health insurance, a retirement savings plan, generous paid time off, and a stipend for home office equipment. Employees have access to continuous professional development programs and career advancement opportunities within a leading technology company. Enjoy the flexibility of remote work while contributing to groundbreaking advancements in robotics and automation from anywhere in South Africa.