Lead Mechanical Design Engineer - Automation Systems

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package with bonuses

Medical aid + retirement fund

Leadership development and advanced技n

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Mechanical Design Engineer in Centurion, Gauteng, to oversee the design of advanced automation systems and machinery. You will lead a team of engineers, drive projects from conception to production, and ensure robust, efficient designs tailored to client requirements.

The role demands 10+ years in mechanical design, strong CAD skills (Inventor/SolidWorks), and hands-on leadership. On-site in Centurion with opportunities for growth in a cutting-edge automation

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• 10+ years of mechanical design experience, with automation systems.
• Experience in lead or senior engineering roles managing projects and teams.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD (Inventor/SolidWorks) and PDM/PLM.
• Strong knowledge of mechanics, kinematics, dynamics, and control systems.
• Experience with FEA and design validation tools.
• On-site work in Centurion, South Africa; eligible to work legally.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design of automation systems and custom machinery.
• Mentor and guide a team of mechanical design engineers.
• Develop detailed 3D models, 2D drawings, and BOMs.
• Perform analyses and tolerance studies to ensure design integrity.
• Collaborate with electrical/software/project managers for integrated designs.
• Oversee selection of motors, gearboxes, bearings, actuators.
• Lead design reviews and risk mitigation.
• Support assembly, testing, and commissioning of projects.
• Stay abreast of automation/robotics trends.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Project management

Problem solving

Team mentoring

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Autodesk Inventor

SolidWorks

PDM/PLM systems

FEA software

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leader in industrial automation solutions, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Mechanical Design Engineer to join their innovative team in **Centurion, Gauteng**. This is a critical role responsible for overseeing the mechanical design of complex automation systems and machinery. You will lead a team of talented engineers, driving projects from conception through to production. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in designing bespoke automated machinery, with a keen eye for detail and a passion for technological advancement. You will work closely with clients to understand their unique requirements and translate them into robust, efficient, and reliable mechanical designs. This position is based at our state-of-the-art facility in **Centurion, Gauteng**, a hub for technological innovation in **South Africa**. We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative environment where cutting-edge ideas are developed and implemented.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design process for advanced automation systems, robotics, and custom machinery.
• Manage and mentor a team of mechanical design engineers, providing technical direction and performance feedback.
• Develop detailed 3D models, 2D manufacturing drawings, and Bills of Materials (BOMs) using CAD software (e.g., Inventor, SolidWorks).
• Perform structural analysis, motion analysis, and tolerance stack-up studies to ensure design integrity and functionality.
• Collaborate with electrical engineers, software developers, and project managers to ensure integrated system design.
• Oversee the selection of mechanical components, including motors, gearboxes, bearings, and actuators.
• Specify materials and manufacturing processes, ensuring cost-effectiveness and adherence to quality standards.
• Lead design reviews, identify potential risks, and implement mitigation strategies.
• Support the assembly, testing, and commissioning phases of automation projects.
• Stay current with industry trends in automation, robotics, and mechanical design.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in mechanical design, with a significant portion focused on automation systems and machinery.
• Proven experience in a Lead or Senior Engineer role, managing engineering projects and teams.
• Expertise in 3D CAD software, such as Autodesk Inventor or SolidWorks, and PDM/PLM systems.
• Strong understanding of mechanical principles, kinematics, dynamics, and control systems.
• Experience with FEA and other simulation tools for design validation.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet project deadlines.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting and problem-solving complex mechanical issues.
• Prior experience in sectors like automotive manufacturing, packaging, or material handling is highly desirable.
• Must be legally authorized to work in **South Africa** and comfortable working on-site in **Centurion**.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package with performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for leadership development and advanced technical training.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and a stimulating work environment.
• Company-provided vehicle or transport allowance.
• Generous annual leave and paid public holidays.
• A chance to shape the future of industrial automation.