Lead Mechanical Engineer - Industrial Automation

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Generous leave

Professional development

Advanced engineering tech

Hybrid work

Career advancement

Travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer in Cape Town to spearhead industrial automation projects. You will lead a team of engineers, develop CAD designs, and ensure reliable, safe systems.

The role blends hands-on design with client liaison and project leadership in a hybrid Cape Town setting. The ideal candidate will have 8+ years in mechanical engineering with automation/robotics, strong CAD/CAE skills, and proven leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 8 years in mechanical engineering with automation/robotics focus.
• Experience leading engineering teams and managing complex projects.
• Proficiency in CAD tools: Inventor, SolidWorks, Siemens NX; CAE for simulation.
• Strong knowledge of automation, pneumatics, hydraulics and servo systems.
• Ability to manage client relationships and communicate technical information.
• Familiar with project management methodologies and tools.
• Hybrid work model based in Cape Town, Western Cape, ZA.

Responsibilities

• Oversee mechanical design and development of industrial automation systems and robotic applications.
• Lead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers, designers, and technicians, providing technical direction and feedback.
• Develop conceptual designs, detailed drawings, and specifications using CAD software.
• Conduct mechanical analyses (stress, thermal, vibration) for system integrity.
• Collaborate with electrical/control engineers to integrate designs with PLCs.
• Manage project scope, budgets, and schedules for timely delivery.
• Develop and implement testing protocols for prototypes and final systems.
• Interface with clients to define requirements and present design solutions.
• Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical issues during integration and commissioning.
• Ensure designs comply with safety standards and regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Team mentoring

Client communication

Automation concepts

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Inventor

SolidWorks

Siemens NX

CAE tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a dynamic and experienced Lead Mechanical Engineer to spearhead their industrial automation projects. Based in the vibrant city of Cape Town, Western Cape, ZA, this role offers a hybrid work model, combining the benefits of in-office collaboration with the flexibility of remote work. You will be responsible for the overall mechanical design and implementation of automated systems, ensuring efficiency, reliability, and safety. This position requires a deep understanding of automation technologies, robotics, and control systems, alongside exceptional leadership skills. The Lead Mechanical Engineer will guide a team of engineers, manage project timelines, and work closely with clients to understand and fulfill their automation needs. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a growing industry and contribute to the technological advancement of manufacturing processes in South Africa. We are dedicated to fostering an environment where innovation thrives and engineers can excel.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the mechanical design and development of complex industrial automation systems and robotic applications.
• Lead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers, designers, and technicians, providing technical direction and performance feedback.
• Develop conceptual designs, detailed engineering drawings, and specifications using CAD software.
• Conduct thorough mechanical analysis, including stress, thermal, and vibration analysis, to ensure system integrity and performance.
• Collaborate with electrical and control engineers to integrate mechanical designs with automation components and PLCs.
• Manage project scope, budgets, and schedules, ensuring timely and successful project delivery.
• Develop and implement testing protocols for prototypes and final systems.
• Interface directly with clients to define project requirements and present design solutions.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical issues during system integration and commissioning.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant safety standards and regulations for industrial automation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of professional experience in mechanical engineering, with a strong focus on industrial automation or robotics.
• Proven experience in leading engineering teams and managing complex projects.
• Expertise in CAD software (e.g., Inventor, SolidWorks, Siemens NX) and CAE tools for simulation.
• Strong understanding of automation principles, pneumatics, hydraulics, and servo systems.
• Excellent knowledge of machine design, material selection, and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to manage client relationships and communicate technical information effectively.
• Familiarity with project management methodologies and tools.
• Must be able to work effectively in a hybrid model from Cape Town, Western Cape, ZA.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package up to ZAR per annum.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Generous leave allowance.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Access to advanced engineering technologies.
• A stimulating and collaborative work environment.
• Hybrid work arrangement for improved work-life integration.
• Potential for career advancement within the organization.
• Travel opportunities for site visits and client meetings.