Mechanical Design Engineer - Advanced Materials

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 680,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer for a cutting-edge research and manufacturing client in Kimberley, Northern Cape. You will design and develop mechanical components and systems using composites, ceramics, and advanced alloys, performing stress, thermal, and vibration analyses, and overseeing prototyping and testing.

You will use SolidWorks or CATIA to create detailed designs and manufacturing drawings, and collaborate with material scientists to understand material

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Materials Science/Engineering.
• 3–5 years of mechanical design experience.
• Proficiency in CAD tools SolidWorks or CATIA.
• Understanding of material properties and manufacturing for composites, ceramics, or advanced metals.
• Experience with FEA is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and systems using advanced materials.
• Create detailed designs, 3D models, and drawings with CAD.
• Conduct stress, thermal, and vibration analyses.
• Collaborate with material scientists on material properties and constraints.
• Specify materials, tolerances, and manufacturing processes.
• Oversee prototyping and testing to validate designs.
• Document design procedures and test results.
• Troubleshoot design and manufacturing challenges.
• Stay informed about developments in advanced materials.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Materials Science/Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

Fusion 360

Job description

About the Role

A cutting-edge research and manufacturing firm specializing in advanced materials and their applications is seeking a talented Mechanical Design Engineer to join their innovative team in Kimberley, Northern Cape. This role focuses on designing and developing components and systems utilizing novel materials such as composites, ceramics, and advanced alloys. You will be involved in conceptual design, material selection, stress analysis, prototyping, and testing, working closely with material scientists and R&D specialists. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in mechanical design principles and a keen interest in the application of new material technologies. This is a unique opportunity to push the boundaries of engineering design in Kimberley.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and systems using advanced materials, applying principles of solid mechanics and material science.
• Utilize CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360) to create detailed designs, 3D models, and manufacturing drawings.
• Perform engineering analysis, including stress, thermal, and vibration analysis, considering the unique properties of advanced materials.
• Collaborate with material scientists to understand material characteristics, manufacturing constraints, and performance limits.
• Specify materials, tolerances, and manufacturing processes for components fabricated from composites, ceramics, or specialty alloys.
• Oversee prototyping and testing activities to validate designs and material performance.
• Document design procedures, test results, and material application guidelines.
• Troubleshoot design and manufacturing challenges related to advanced materials.
• Stay informed about the latest developments in advanced materials and their engineering applications.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Materials Science/Engineering.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in mechanical design, with exposure to or a strong interest in advanced materials.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA).
• Solid understanding of material properties, behavior under load, and manufacturing processes for composites, ceramics, or advanced metals.
• Experience with engineering analysis (FEA) is desirable.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a research-intensive environment.
• A passion for innovation and working with new technologies.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including comprehensive health coverage and retirement planning. Opportunities for professional development, attending industry conferences, and working on pioneering projects are abundant. This role is based at our advanced facility in Kimberley, Northern Cape, providing a stimulating environment for innovation. Join a team that is defining the future of material applications in engineering.