Lead Mechanical Systems Engineer - Aerospace Applications

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct in Cape Town, Western Cape, is seeking a Lead Mechanical Systems Engineer to lead the design, development and integration of advanced mechanical systems.

You will guide a team of engineers, oversee end-to-end lifecycle from concept through testing and production support, and ensure robust system architecture and performance across demanding industries. Relocation assistance may be available.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• 10+ years in mechanical design and systems engineering with leadership.
• Experience in aerospace, automotive, or similar demanding industries.
• Proficiency with CAD/CAE tools (ANSYS, SolidWorks, NX).
• Strong knowledge of system dynamics, control, and mechatronics.
• Residency or willingness to relocate to Cape Town.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership to a team of mechanical engineers.
• Oversee lifecycle from concept to production support.
• Develop system architecture and ensure integration with subsystems.
• Conduct stress, thermal, and vibration analyses to validate design.
• Define best practices for design, documentation, and quality control.
• Collaborate with project managers, stakeholders, and customers on roadmaps.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends.
• Manage technical risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Champion continuous improvement and innovation within the team.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Team collaboration

Stakeholder communication

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

ANSYS

SolidWorks

NX

Job description

About the Role Our client, WhatJobs Direct, is seeking an accomplished Lead Mechanical Systems Engineer to spearhead innovative projects in **Cape Town, Western Cape**. This critical role involves leading the design, development, and integration of sophisticated mechanical systems for high-stakes applications. You will be at the forefront of technological advancement, working with a talented team to deliver solutions that meet stringent performance and reliability standards. The successful candidate will possess extensive experience in mechanical design, systems engineering principles, and a proven track record of leadership. This position is office-based, fostering a collaborative environment for intense project development and immediate problem-solving within our client’s advanced engineering hub in **Cape Town**. This is an unparalleled chance to make a significant impact in a challenging and rewarding industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership and guidance to a team of mechanical engineers.
• Oversee the entire lifecycle of mechanical systems development, from initial concept and requirements definition through design, analysis, prototyping, testing, and production support.
• Develop and refine system architecture, ensuring mechanical components seamlessly integrate with other subsystems.
• Conduct rigorous mechanical analysis, including stress, thermal, and vibration analysis, to validate design robustness.
• Define and implement best practices for mechanical design, documentation, and quality control.
• Collaborate with project managers, stakeholders, and customers to define technical roadmaps and ensure project success.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends, recommending and integrating them where appropriate.
• Manage technical risks and develop mitigation strategies for complex engineering challenges.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the engineering team.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in mechanical design and systems engineering, with a significant portion focused on leadership roles.
• Demonstrated expertise in aerospace, automotive, or similar demanding industries.
• Advanced proficiency in CAD/CAE tools (e.g., ANSYS, SolidWorks, NX) for complex modeling and simulation.
• In-depth knowledge of system dynamics, control systems, and mechatronics.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and fabrication techniques relevant to aerospace applications.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building capabilities.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects, budgets, and timelines.
• Residency or willingness to relocate to **Cape Town, Western Cape**.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary with performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement and professional growth.
• Exposure to pioneering technologies and challenging projects.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for qualified candidates.
• Access to advanced research and development facilities.
• A dynamic and forward-thinking work environment in **Cape Town**.
• Annual performance reviews and salary adjustments.