Mechanical Design Engineer - Automation

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 540,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary based on experience

Medical and retirement benefits

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid work environment

Exposure to cutting-edge automation

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to join our client in Paarl, Western Cape. You’ll design and develop automated machinery, create CAD drawings and BOMs, and collaborate with electrical/controls engineers to deliver integrated solutions.

Requirements include a Mechanical Engineering degree and 3–5 years in design, with SolidWorks/Inventor/AutoCAD proficiency. Hybrid on-site/remote work is available in Paarl.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 3-5 years of mechanical design experience, preferably in automation or machinery.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Inventor, AutoCAD).
• Strong understanding of kinematics, dynamics and statics.
• Experience with automation components and integration with controls.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components, assemblies and systems for automated machinery using CAD software.
• Create detailed drawings, schematics and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Perform engineering calculations and simulations to validate designs.
• Collaborate with electrical and controls engineers to integrate mechanical designs with automation systems.
• Specify and select mechanical components such as motors, actuators, bearings and sensors.
• Assist in assembly, testing and commissioning of automated machinery.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues and optimize for manufacturability and cost.
• Maintain design documentation and stay updated on new technologies.

Skills

3-5 years experience

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

AutoCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the design and manufacturing of automated industrial solutions, is looking for a skilled Mechanical Design Engineer to join their team in Paarl, Western Cape . This role focuses on the design and development of bespoke machinery and automated systems for diverse industrial applications. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of mechanical principles, motion control, and automation technologies. You will be responsible for creating detailed designs using CAD software, conducting performance analyses, and collaborating with electrical and controls engineers to deliver integrated solutions. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work on challenging projects, contribute to technological advancements in automation, and grow your career within a reputable company. We are seeking a creative and meticulous engineer who is passionate about designing efficient and reliable automated systems. Join our innovative team in Paarl and help us build the future of industrial automation.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components, assemblies, and systems for automated machinery using CAD software.
• Create detailed engineering drawings, schematics, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Perform engineering calculations and simulations (e.g., stress analysis, kinematic analysis) to validate designs.
• Collaborate closely with electrical and controls engineers to integrate mechanical designs with automation systems.
• Specify and select mechanical components such as motors, actuators, bearings, and sensors.
• Assist in the assembly, testing, and commissioning of automated machinery.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues during development, manufacturing, and field service.
• Optimize designs for manufacturability, cost-effectiveness, and performance.
• Maintain and update design documentation and technical records.
• Stay updated on new technologies and best practices in mechanical design and automation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in mechanical design, preferably with a focus on automation or machinery.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, AutoCAD).
• Solid understanding of mechanical principles, including kinematics, dynamics, and statics.
• Familiarity with automation components (e.g., PLCs, servos, robotics) is a significant advantage.
• Experience with engineering analysis tools (FEA) is a plus.
• Good problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, contributing both remotely and on-site in Paarl .
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to quality.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning in automation technology.
• Engaging work environment with exposure to cutting-edge automation projects in Paarl .
• Paid time off and statutory holidays.
• Team-based culture with opportunities for collaboration.
• Potential for career growth within the company.
• Contribute to the advancement of industrial automation.