Mechanical Design Engineer

Simera Sense; Somerset West; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A technology firm in Earth observation seeks a Mechanical Design Engineer in Somerset West to support production through design, integration, and testing. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and experience in mechanical design. Responsibilities include collaborating with teams, designing assembly processes, and ensuring quality standards. Competitive salary and opportunities for impact in the space industry await the successful applicant.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Cutting-edge technology access

Friendly working environment

Qualifications

• 0 - 5 years in mechanical or optomechanical engineering roles, preferably in regulated industries.
• Experience assembling precision mechanical assemblies.
• Skills in managing timelines for mechanical activities.

Responsibilities

• Design and improve assembly processes for optomechanical systems.
• Analyse test data to validate system performance.
• Implement quality control procedures.

Skills

Mechanical design

Attention to detail

Optical integration techniques

CAD software proficiency

Education

Bachelor's Honours Degree in Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Siemens Teamcenter

NX

Job description

Simera Sense is a leading provider of Earth observation camera solutions for the global small satellite market. Committed to excellence and innovation, we deliver superior products and services to our worldwide customer base.

Shape the future of space technology with Simera Sense as a Mechanical Design Engineer. We seek a technically skilled and solutions-driven engineer to support our production team through the design, integration, and testing of mechanical equipment and systems. In this role, you will contribute to the development of high-performance space hardware by creating robust system definitions and clear, production-ready documentation. If you are passionate about precision engineering and thrive in a fast-paced, innovation-focused environment, we invite you to join our mission to deliver world-class optical payloads for space applications.

Job Purpose

Provide technical support to the production team by means of equipment design, integration and testing, in addition to creating system definitions and supporting documentation.

Responsibilities

Collaboration and Communication:

• Work closely with engineers, technicians, and other stakeholders
• Provide technical support and guidance to junior team members
• Communicate effectively to resolve issues and ensure project success

Assembly and Integration:

• Design and improve assembly and integration processes for optomechanical systems
• Integrate optical and mechanical components to ensure proper alignment and functionality
• Maintain the integrity of optical systems in a cleanroom environment
• Mature and improve the company’s AIT procedures
• Maintain and improve AIT equipment

Testing and Validation:

• Analyse test data to validate system performance and make necessary adjustments

Project Management:

• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure project milestones are met
• Manage timelines and resources for optomechanical AIT support activities
• Prepare and present project status reports

Quality Assurance:

• Implement quality control procedures to ensure compliance with industry standards
• Conduct inspections and audits of optomechanical systems
• Address and resolve any non-conformances

Documentation and Reporting:

• Prepare technical documentation, including integration procedures, design documentation, work instructions, build history documentation, test reports, and customer documentation
• Ensure all documentation is up-to-date and accessible

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s Honours Degree in Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering, Physics, Optomechanical Engineering, or a related field

Required Experience

0 - 5 years in mechanical or optomechanical engineering roles, preferably in the space, defence, medical or highly regulated industry

• Experience in mechanical design, development and manufacturing.
• Experience assembling precision mechanical assemblies
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, NX).
• Proficiency in designing high-precision mechanical systems
• Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail
• Experience with optical alignment and integration techniques
• Ability to develop and execute test plans for mechanical systems
• Implementation of quality control procedures to ensure compliance with industry standards
• Conducting inspections and audits of mechanical systems
• Proficiency in generating technical documentation, procedures, including design requirements, test protocols, and reports
• Ability to maintain detailed records of assembly, integration, and testing activities
• Skills in managing timelines and resources for mechanical AIT activities.

Recommendations

• Experience and knowledge of optical/optomechanical systems.
• Experience with Siemens Teamcenter and NX software
• Experience performing AIT of optical payloads or other high-precision optical instrumentation.
• Experience working in a cleanroom environment and complying with quality processes.
• Hands-on experience with interferometry techniques and equipment.
• Proficiency in optical metrology.

Special requirement(s)

Will be required to work on weekends and after hours

What we offer

• The opportunity to work in the fast-growing space industry.
• Niche global market for optical payloads for microsatellites.
• Cutting-edge technology at your fingertips
• A competitive salary
• A friendly working environment.

Ready to make an impact?

Apply now by submitting your CV and cover letter.