Lead Mechanical Engineer - Thermal Systems

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Generous leave

Professional growth

R&D facilities

On-site meals

Well-being focus

Job summary

Placements24's client, a global leader in renewable energy solutions, seeks a Lead Mechanical Engineer to head the thermal systems division in Soweto, Gauteng. You will lead design, development, and deployment of advanced thermal management for next-generation products, guiding a team of engineers and researchers to deliver innovative, reliable solutions.

The ideal candidate has a master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering (Thermal Sciences), 10+ years of experience, and strong leadership.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Thermal Sciences or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in mechanical engineering, with a significant focus on thermal systems design.
• Demonstrated experience in leading engineering teams and managing complex projects.
• Expertise in thermal analysis software (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, COMSOL Multiphysics) and CAD tools.
• In-depth knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer principles, and fluid mechanics.
• Experience with various cooling technologies and methods (e.g., natural convection, forced convection, heat pipes).
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic planning abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of sophisticated thermal management systems for new and existing products.
• Oversee and execute detailed thermal analysis, including heat transfer calculations and CFD simulations.
• Define technical specifications and performance requirements for thermal components and sub-systems.
• Manage and mentor a team of mechanical engineers specializing in thermal design.
• Collaborate with R&D, product development, and manufacturing departments to integrate thermal solutions effectively.
• Develop and implement rigorous testing protocols for thermal performance validation.
• Identify and evaluate emerging thermal technologies for potential application in our products.
• Ensure all designs meet stringent performance, reliability, and safety standards.
• Contribute to project planning, resource allocation, and timeline management for thermal engineering initiatives.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation for internal stakeholders and external partners.

Skills

Leadership

Thermal analysis

ANSYS Fluent

COMSOL Multiphysics

Heat transfer

Thermodynamics

Fluid dynamics

CAD tools

Education

Master’s or PhD in Mechanical Engineering (Thermal Sciences)

Tools

ANSYS Fluent

COMSOL Multiphysics

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in renewable energy solutions, is actively searching for an accomplished Lead Mechanical Engineer to spearhead their thermal systems division in Soweto, Gauteng . This critical position involves leading the design, development, and implementation of advanced thermal management systems for our innovative products. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of sustainable energy technologies, working with a talented team of engineers and researchers. The successful candidate will bring extensive expertise in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics, combined with strong leadership capabilities and a passion for environmental innovation. This role is based at our state-of-the-art facility and offers an exceptional career growth path within a company dedicated to making a positive global impact. We are looking for a visionary leader who can inspire a team and drive complex projects to successful completion. Your deep technical knowledge and strategic thinking will be key to maintaining our competitive edge and expanding our market presence in the rapidly evolving green technology sector. The ideal candidate possesses a proven track record in thermal engineering and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of sophisticated thermal management systems for new and existing products.
• Oversee and execute detailed thermal analysis, including heat transfer calculations and CFD simulations.
• Define technical specifications and performance requirements for thermal components and sub-systems.
• Manage and mentor a team of mechanical engineers specializing in thermal design.
• Collaborate with R&D, product development, and manufacturing departments to integrate thermal solutions effectively.
• Develop and implement rigorous testing protocols for thermal performance validation.
• Identify and evaluate emerging thermal technologies for potential application in our products.
• Ensure all designs meet stringent performance, reliability, and safety standards.
• Contribute to project planning, resource allocation, and timeline management for thermal engineering initiatives.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation for internal stakeholders and external partners.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Thermal Sciences or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in mechanical engineering, with a significant focus on thermal systems design.
• Demonstrated experience in leading engineering teams and managing complex projects.
• Expertise in thermal analysis software (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, COMSOL Multiphysics) and CAD tools.
• In-depth knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer principles, and fluid mechanics.
• Experience with various cooling technologies and methods (e.g., natural convection, forced convection, heat pipes).
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic planning abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
• Experience working in the renewable energy or high-tech manufacturing industry is highly desirable.
• Ability to work full-time on-site in our Soweto, Gauteng facility.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package with annual bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and life insurance coverage.
• Company-sponsored retirement fund.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Extensive opportunities for professional growth, including advanced training and conference attendance.
• Access to cutting-edge research and development facilities.
• A dynamic work environment focused on innovation and sustainability.
• Significant career advancement prospects within a growing international company.
• Subsidized meals and on-site amenities.
• Commitment to employee well-being and work-life balance.