Lead Mechanical Engineer — Cape Town, Machinery Design

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Pension scheme

Annual bonuses

Paid time off

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer to head the engineering division, guiding a team of engineers and designers in the conceptualization, design, and refinement of high‑performance industrial equipment.

You will set technical direction, ensure safety and quality compliance, and drive innovation for a global clientele, leveraging expert CAD/FEA skills and a proven track record in delivering complex projects on time.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or closely related discipline.
• Minimum 10 years hands-on mechanical design experience, with at least 3 years in lead/supervisory role.
• Proven track record designing heavy industrial machinery or complex mechanical systems.
• Advanced proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Inventor) and FEA tools.
• Strong knowledge of materials science, manufacturing processes, and assembly techniques.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers and designers, fostering innovation and collaboration.
• Oversee full lifecycle of mechanical design projects from concept to product release.
• Develop detailed 3D models, drawings, and specifications for complex machinery components and assemblies.
• Perform advanced engineering calculations and simulations (stress, thermal, vibration).
• Ensure designs comply with industry standards, safety regulations, and client requirements.
• Collaborate with production, procurement, and sales to ensure manufacturability and cost-effectiveness.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex engineering issues during design, manufacturing, or field operation.
• Drive continuous improvement in design processes, tools, and methodologies.
• Prepare and present technical proposals and project updates to senior management and clients.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Project delivery

Analytical mindset

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

SolidWorks

Inventor

FEA tools

Job description

Placements24 in Cape Town is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer to head the engineering division, guiding a team of engineers and designers in the conceptualization, design, and refinement of high‑performance industrial equipment.

You will set technical direction, ensure safety and quality compliance, and drive innovation for a global clientele, leveraging expert CAD/FEA skills and a proven track record in delivering complex projects on time.