Lead Mechanical Design Engineer (Remote)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Home office setup allowance

Online courses and conferences access

Flexible schedule

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Mechanical Design Engineer to spearhead the design and development of advanced robotic systems and automated machinery. This fully remote role leads a cross-functional team of engineers, driving innovation, quality, and manufacturing efficiency from a globally distributed hub.

You will guide multi-disciplinary projects, ensure rigorous design practices, and communicate progress to senior stakeholders while maintaining a flexible, remote-friendly work

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years in mechanical design with at least 3 years in leadership.
• Extensive experience with CATIA V5 and SolidWorks Premium.
• Strong knowledge of robotics, mechatronics, kinematics, and control systems.
• Experience leading multi-disciplinary teams and projects.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills; ability to convey complex concepts remotely.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, remote environment.
• Experience with high-volume manufacturing and industrial automation.
• Passion for innovation and proactive problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization, design, and development of advanced mechanical systems for robotic and automation applications.
• Mentor and manage a team of mechanical design engineers; provide technical direction.
• Oversee creation of 3D models, drawings, and BOMs using CAD software.
• Conduct and review engineering analyses (FEA, CFD, dynamic simulations) to validate designs.
• Collaborate with software, electrical, and controls teams for seamless integration.
• Drive DFA/DFM processes to optimize production efficiency and cost.
• Champion new technologies and materials in product designs.
• Develop and maintain project schedules and allocate resources for design activities.
• Ensure designs meet quality, safety, and industry standards.
• Present proposals and updates to senior management and stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Project management

Communication

Problem-solving

Remote collaboration

Education

PhD/Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA V5

SolidWorks Premium

FEA/CFD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneer in advanced automation and robotics, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Mechanical Design Engineer to join their globally distributed engineering team. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere while leading critical design initiatives. You will be responsible for spearheading the design and development of sophisticated robotic systems and automated machinery. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional leadership qualities, a deep technical expertise in mechanical design, and a proven track record of successfully delivering complex engineering projects. You will guide a team of talented engineers, foster innovation, and ensure the highest standards of design excellence. This role is crucial to our continued growth and our mission to revolutionize industrial automation through cutting-edge technology. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive remote workforce where talented individuals can thrive and make a significant impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and development of advanced mechanical systems for robotic and automation applications.
• Manage and mentor a team of mechanical design engineers, providing technical direction and performance feedback.
• Oversee the creation of detailed 3D models, engineering drawings, and Bills of Materials (BOMs) using advanced CAD software.
• Conduct and review complex engineering analyses, including FEA, CFD, and dynamic simulations, to validate designs.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams (software, electrical, controls) to ensure seamless system integration.
• Drive the DFM (Design for Manufacturing) and DFA (Design for Assembly) processes to optimize for production efficiency and cost.
• Champion innovation by exploring and integrating new technologies and materials into product designs.
• Develop and maintain project schedules and resource allocation plans for mechanical design activities.
• Ensure all designs adhere to rigorous quality standards, safety regulations, and industry best practices.
• Present design proposals, progress updates, and technical solutions to senior management and stakeholders.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in mechanical design, with at least 3 years in a leadership or team lead role.
• Extensive experience with advanced CAD packages (e.g., CATIA V5, SolidWorks Premium) and complex simulation tools.
• Deep understanding of robotics, mechatronics, kinematics, and control systems.
• Proven experience in leading multi-disciplinary engineering teams and projects.
• Exceptional problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic thinking abilities.
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills, adept at articulating technical concepts to diverse audiences remotely.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, remote environment.
• Experience with high-volume manufacturing processes and industrial automation.
• Passion for innovation and a proactive approach to identifying and solving engineering challenges.

Benefits

• This fully remote role offers a highly competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive health benefits.
• Our client provides a generous home office setup allowance and encourages continuous learning through access to online courses, workshops, and industry conferences.
• You will have the opportunity to work on groundbreaking projects with a global impact, collaborating with some of the brightest minds in the automation industry.
• We offer a flexible work schedule and a culture that prioritizes innovation, collaboration, and employee well-being.
• This position provides significant autonomy and the chance to shape the future of robotic technology from your chosen location.