Lead Mechanical Design Engineer - Product Innovation

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

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive salary

Benefits package

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA, seeks a Lead Mechanical Design Engineer to drive the end-to-end mechanical design for innovative products in a hybrid on-site/remote setting. You will mentor a team and ensure robust designs from concept through production launch.

The ideal candidate has a master's in mechanical engineering, 8+ years of design experience, and proficiency in SolidWorks or CATIA, with expertise in FEA/CFD and DFMA.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum 8 years in mechanical product design with at least 2 years in a lead or senior role.
• Proficient in SolidWorks or CATIA and simulation tools (FEA/CFD).
• Experience designing and launching complex electromechanical products.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design process for new product development from concept to final production release.
• Develop detailed 3D CAD models, 2D drawings, and schematics for mechanical components and assemblies.
• Conduct design validation through simulations (FEA, CFD) and physical prototyping.
• Collaborate with industrial designers, electrical engineers, and software developers for integrated subsystems.
• Oversee materials selection and manufacturing processes with a focus on DFMA and DFA.
• Mentor and manage a team of mechanical design engineers.
• Coordinate with manufacturing partners and suppliers to ensure efficient production.
• Define and maintain design documentation including BOMs and test procedures.
• Identify innovative design solutions to meet performance, cost, and timeline targets.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Mentoring

Communication

CAD Software

FEA/CFD

Electromechanical design

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

FEA tools

CFD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, WhatJobs Direct, is looking for an experienced and visionary Lead Mechanical Design Engineer to join their dynamic product development team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA. This hybrid role requires a balance of on-site collaboration for critical design reviews and brainstorming sessions, alongside remote flexibility for focused design work. You will spearhead the mechanical design aspects of innovative new products, from conceptualization through to production launch. The ideal candidate is a creative problem-solver with a proven track record of bringing complex mechanical designs to life, a strong understanding of modern manufacturing techniques, and excellent leadership capabilities. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of our client's product offerings and mentor a talented team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design process for new product development, from initial concept generation to final production release.
• Develop detailed 3D CAD models, 2D drawings, and schematics for mechanical components and assemblies.
• Conduct rigorous design validation through simulations (FEA, CFD) and physical prototyping.
• Collaborate closely with industrial designers, electrical engineers, and software developers to ensure seamless integration of all product subsystems.
• Oversee the selection of materials and manufacturing processes, focusing on DFM (Design for Manufacturability) and DFA (Design for Assembly).
• Manage and mentor a team of mechanical design engineers, providing technical guidance and fostering professional growth.
• Coordinate with manufacturing partners and suppliers to ensure efficient and high-quality production.
• Define and maintain design documentation, including BOMs, specifications, and test procedures.
• Identify and implement innovative design solutions to meet product performance, cost, and timeline targets.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and design trends relevant to product innovation.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in mechanical product design, with at least 2 years in a lead or senior role.
• Expert proficiency in advanced CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) and simulation tools (FEA/CFD).
• Demonstrated experience in designing and launching complex electromechanical products.
• Strong understanding of various manufacturing processes (e.g., injection molding, CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively in a hybrid work setting.
• Experience with New Product Introduction (NPI) processes.
• A portfolio showcasing innovative mechanical designs is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and incentive programs.
• Comprehensive health, wellness, and retirement benefits.
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement and leadership.
• A stimulating and innovative work environment.
• Supportive hybrid work model to promote flexibility.