Lead Mechanical Engineer - Industrial Automation

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Health and retirement benefits

Performance-based bonuses

Flexible hybrid work environment

Training and certifications

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer in Rustenburg to guide a team in the design and development of industrial automation equipment and robotic systems.

You will drive innovation, oversee CAD/CAE work, ensure safety and performance standards, and collaborate with controls and software teams to deliver robust automation solutions for diverse industries. Extensive leadership, project management, and communication skills are essential, along with willingness to travel to client sites.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• 10+ years in mechanical engineering with 5+ years in automation/robotics.
• Experience leading engineering teams and complex projects.
• Proficient in CAD/CAE software (SolidWorks, Inventor, ANSYS).
• Understanding of machine design, kinematics, dynamics, control systems, and material handling.
• Experience with PLM software and project management methodologies.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with servo-mechanisms and automated systems.
• Willingness to travel occasionally to client sites or manufacturing facilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers in the design and development of industrial automation equipment and systems.
• Oversee the conceptualization, detailed design, prototyping, and testing of complex machinery, including robotic cells, material handling systems, and specialized production equipment.
• Ensure designs meet performance specifications, safety standards, and client requirements, leveraging CAD/CAE tools.
• Collaborate with controls engineers, software developers, and project managers for seamless system integration.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources, ensuring timely and cost-effective completion.
• Drive innovation by staying abreast of advancements in automation technology and robotics.
• Conduct rigorous design reviews, risk assessments, and performance analyses.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance to the engineering team for continuous improvement.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation including design specifications, BOMs, and user manuals.

Skills

Team leadership

Mechanical design

Project management

CAD/CAE proficiency

Problem-solving

Communication

Robotics/automation

Travel willingness

Mentorship

Education

Bachelor's/Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

ANSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of advanced industrial automation solutions, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Mechanical Engineer to guide their engineering efforts in Rustenburg, North West, ZA . This pivotal role requires a strong leader with extensive expertise in the design and development of complex automated machinery and robotic systems. You will be responsible for overseeing a team of mechanical engineers, driving innovation, and ensuring the successful delivery of robust and efficient automation solutions for various industries. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of mechanical design principles, project management acumen, and a proven ability to tackle challenging engineering problems. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of industrial automation and lead a talented team within a growth-oriented company.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers in the design and development of industrial automation equipment and systems.


• Oversee the conceptualization, detailed design, prototyping, and testing of complex machinery, including robotic cells, material handling systems, and specialized production equipment.


• Ensure designs meet performance specifications, safety standards, and client requirements, leveraging advanced CAD/CAE tools.


• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including controls engineers, software developers, and project managers, to ensure seamless system integration.


• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources, ensuring timely and cost-effective project completion.


• Drive innovation by staying abreast of the latest advancements in automation technology, robotics, and mechanical engineering.


• Conduct rigorous design reviews, risk assessments, and performance analyses.


• Provide technical leadership and guidance to the engineering team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.


• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including design specifications, BOMs, and user manuals.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.


• A minimum of 10 years of experience in mechanical engineering, with at least 5 years focused on industrial automation or robotics.


• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing engineering teams and complex projects.


• Expertise in CAD/CAE software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, ANSYS) for design and simulation.


• Strong understanding of machine design, kinematics, dynamics, control systems, and material handling principles.


• Proven experience with PLM software and project management methodologies.


• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.


• Exceptional communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.


• Experience with servo-mechanisms and automated systems is essential.


• Willingness to travel occasionally to client sites or manufacturing facilities.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, and performance-based bonuses.


• We are committed to fostering professional growth through extensive training opportunities, advanced certifications, and support for continuing education.


• Employees benefit from a flexible hybrid work environment, promoting work-life balance.


• Career advancement within this innovative and expanding company is significant.


• Join a dynamic team that is at the forefront of industrial automation technology.