Lead Mechanical Engineer - Robotics and Automation

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off & holidays

Remote work

Conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer for a fully remote role focused on robotics and automation. You will guide a distributed team, drive mechanical design for robotic systems, and collaborate with electrical and software engineers to deliver integrated solutions.

The role requires a Master's in Mechanical Engineering, 8+ years in robotics, strong CAD/CAE skills, and proven leadership in fast-paced environments. Remote collaboration and growth opportunities are emphasized.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 8+ years in mechanical design/engineering focusing on robotics and automation.
• Proven experience leading engineering teams and managing complex projects.
• Strong CAD/CAE skills (SolidWorks, CATIA, Inventor, ANSYS).
• Solid understanding of kinematics, dynamics, control systems, and mechatronics.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design of robotic systems, end-effectors, and automated machinery.
• Mentor and manage a distributed team of mechanical engineers.
• Perform advanced analyses: stress, dynamics, kinematics, thermal simulations.
• Collaborate with electrical/software/control teams for integrated solutions.
• Oversee design documentation, BOMs, and testing/validation procedures.

Skills

Robotics design

Leadership

3D CAD

Mechanical analysis

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

Inventor

ANSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a trailblazer in industrial automation and robotics, is seeking a highly experienced Lead Mechanical Engineer for a fully remote position. This is an exceptional opportunity to drive innovation in the design and development of sophisticated robotic systems and automated manufacturing solutions. You will lead a team of talented engineers, guiding them through complex design challenges, from concept ideation to final implementation. The role demands exceptional technical expertise in mechanical design, a strong understanding of control systems and mechatronics, and the ability to manage projects effectively in a distributed team environment. We are looking for a visionary leader who is passionate about robotics and automation and thrives in a remote-first, collaborative culture. This role is crucial for developing the next generation of automated solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of robotic systems, end-effectors, and automated machinery.
• Manage and mentor a team of mechanical engineers, providing technical guidance and project oversight.
• Conceptualize and design complex mechanical assemblies, ensuring high performance, reliability, and precision.
• Perform advanced engineering analyses, including stress, dynamics, kinematics, and thermal simulations.
• Collaborate closely with electrical engineers, software developers, and control systems specialists to ensure seamless integration of all subsystems.
• Develop and implement robust testing and validation procedures for robotic and automation hardware.
• Oversee the selection of components, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Create comprehensive design documentation, including detailed drawings, BOMs, and technical specifications.
• Drive innovation by researching and applying new technologies in robotics, automation, and materials science.
• Effectively manage project timelines, resources, and deliverables in a fully remote setting.
• Communicate project status, technical challenges, and solutions clearly to stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in mechanical design and engineering, with a significant focus on robotics and automation.
• Proven experience in leading engineering teams and managing complex projects.
• Expertise in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, Inventor) and CAE tools (e.g., ANSYS, Adams).
• Strong understanding of kinematics, dynamics, control systems, and mechatronics principles.
• Experience with automation components such as motors, sensors, actuators, and transmissions.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, vital for remote collaboration.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and take initiative in a remote environment.
• Familiarity with agile development methodologies is a plus.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and bonus structure.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings plan with employer match.
• Extensive paid time off and company holidays.
• Significant opportunities for professional development, training, and conference attendance.
• Fully remote work arrangement providing ultimate flexibility.
• Access to advanced simulation tools and high-performance computing resources.
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge robotics and automation projects.
• A culture that fosters innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.