Lead Aerospace Mechanical Systems Engineer (Remote)

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Health insurance

Long-term incentive plan

Professional development

Conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Lead Aerospace Mechanical Systems Engineer for a fully remote role. You will lead the complete design lifecycle of mechanical systems for next‑gen spacecraft and launch vehicles, directing a distributed team of engineers from concept through flight.

The role demands a Masters or PhD in aerospace or mechanical engineering, 10+ years in aerospace design and systems engineering, and strong CAD/analysis tool experience (CATIA, NX, NASTRAN, ANSYS, COMSOL).

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering.
• 10+ years in mechanical design and systems engineering in aerospace.
• Experience with spacecraft or launch vehicle mechanical systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, analysis, and verification of aerospace mechanical systems.
• Oversee detailed CAD models, drawings, and specifications to aerospace standards.
• Develop and execute test plans for qualification and acceptance testing.
• Mentor junior engineers and manage remote teams.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

CAD (CATIA, NX)

FEA/CFD

Aerospace standards

Remote leadership

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA

NX

NASTRAN

ANSYS

COMSOL

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a trailblazer in the aerospace industry known for its cutting-edge satellite and propulsion systems, is actively seeking a Lead Aerospace Mechanical Systems Engineer for a fully remote position. This high-impact role involves the complete design lifecycle of critical mechanical systems for next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicles. You will lead a team of talented engineers in developing complex structures, mechanisms, thermal control systems, and propulsion components. We are looking for a visionary leader with a deep understanding of aerospace materials, rigorous design standards, and a proven ability to manage challenging projects within a distributed team setting. This is an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to space exploration and innovation, working on projects that push the boundaries of what's possible. The successful candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, remote-first environment, driving mechanical engineering excellence from concept to flight.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, analysis, and verification of aerospace mechanical systems, including spacecraft structures, deployable mechanisms, thermal control systems, and propulsion subsystems.
• Oversee the creation of detailed CAD models, drawings, and specifications adhering to strict aerospace industry standards (e.g., NASA, ESA standards).
• Conduct advanced analyses, including structural (FEA), thermal (FEA/CFD), vibration, and dynamic analyses, to ensure system integrity and performance under extreme space environments.
• Manage the selection of aerospace-grade materials, components, and manufacturing processes, ensuring compliance with stringent reliability requirements.
• Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, including avionics, software, and systems engineers, to ensure seamless integration and successful mission outcomes.
• Develop and execute comprehensive test plans for qualification and acceptance testing of mechanical components and systems.
• Mentor and guide junior mechanical engineers, fostering a culture of technical rigor and continuous learning.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets for mechanical system development, ensuring on-time and on-budget delivery.
• Interface with customers and regulatory bodies as required, presenting technical information clearly and concisely.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in mechanical design and systems engineering within the aerospace industry.
• Extensive experience with spacecraft or launch vehicle mechanical systems.
• Expertise in advanced CAD software (e.g., CATIA, NX) and structural/thermal analysis tools (e.g., NASTRAN, ANSYS, COMSOL).
• Deep understanding of aerospace materials, manufacturing processes (e.g., composite fabrication, precision machining), and testing methodologies.
• Proven leadership experience, with the ability to manage and motivate engineering teams effectively in a remote setting.
• Excellent project management skills, including scheduling, risk management, and resource allocation.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Eligibility to work remotely from South Africa and a willingness to obtain necessary security clearances if required.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package up ZAR.
• Fully remote work flexibility.
• Comprehensive private health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous long‑term incentive plan.
• Access to cutting‑edge aerospace projects and technologies.
• Professional development opportunities, including conference attendance and advanced training.
• Significant contribution to groundbreaking space missions.