Mechanical Design Engineer - Industrial Automation Systems

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement savings plan

Continuous learning opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to join a remote team focused on designing custom machinery and automated systems for manufacturing sectors around Nelspruit. You will work on robotics, conveyors, and assembly equipment using advanced CAD and simulation tools to deliver efficient mechanical designs.

The role emphasizes independent work, strong collaboration with cross-functional teams, and adherence to safety standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 3–5 years of mechanical design experience in industrial machinery, automation or robotics.
• Proficiency with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Inventor, AutoCAD).
• Understanding of mechanics, kinetics, dynamics and machine elements.
• Experience with automation components (servos, pneumatics, hydraulics, sensors, PLCs).

Responsibilities

• Design mechanical components, assemblies and systems for industrial automation using 3D CAD.
• Produce drawings, specifications and BOMs.
• Conduct kinematic and dynamic analyses of moving parts.
• Collaborate remotely with electrical engineers, software developers, and project managers.
• Perform design reviews and implement robust, safe solutions.
• Select materials and components based on application needs.
• Support prototyping, testing and validation; refine designs from results.
• Research and apply innovative design approaches for performance and cost savings.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and maintain design documentation.

Skills

Mechanical design

Kinematics and dynamics

Remote collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

AutoCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in providing innovative solutions for industrial automation, is seeking a talented Mechanical Design Engineer to join their remote team. This role focuses on the design and development of custom machinery and automated systems used in various manufacturing sectors. You will work on exciting projects that involve robotics, conveyor systems, and specialized assembly equipment. As part of a distributed team, you will leverage advanced CAD and simulation tools to create efficient and reliable mechanical designs. The successful candidate will contribute to enhancing manufacturing processes, with a particular focus on projects relevant to the industrial needs around **Nelspruit**.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components, assemblies, and systems for industrial automation equipment using 3D CAD software.
• Create detailed technical drawings, specifications, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Perform kinematic and dynamic analysis of moving parts and mechanisms.
• Collaborate remotely with electrical engineers, software developers, and project managers to integrate mechanical solutions into complete automated systems.
• Conduct design reviews, identify potential issues, and implement solutions to ensure performance, reliability, and safety.
• Select appropriate materials, bearings, actuators, and other components based on application requirements.
• Support prototyping, testing, and validation activities, interpreting results to refine designs.
• Research and recommend innovative design approaches and technologies to improve product performance and cost-effectiveness.
• Ensure designs adhere to relevant industry standards and safety regulations for industrial machinery.
• Maintain accurate and organized design documentation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in mechanical design, with a focus on industrial machinery, automation, or robotics.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, AutoCAD).
• Understanding of mechanical principles, including kinematics, dynamics, strength of materials, and machine elements.
• Experience with automation components such as servo motors, pneumatic and hydraulic systems, sensors, and PLCs.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, essential for remote teamwork.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet project deadlines.
• Familiarity with machine safety standards (e.g., ISO 13849) is a plus.
• Must have a suitable home office environment for remote work.

Benefits

• This is a remote position with opportunities to contribute to projects servicing the industrial sector around **Nelspruit**.
• Our client offers a competitive salary, medical aid, and retirement savings plan.
• We provide continuous learning opportunities through online resources and virtual training sessions.
• Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and employee development.
• You'll work on exciting automation projects and have the flexibility to work from home.