Mechanical Design Engineer - Robotics and Automation

Placements24; Free State; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid and retirement fund

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape, seeks a Mechanical Design Engineer to design mechanical systems for robotic platforms, create 3D models and BOMs, and work with electrical and controls engineers for integrated solutions.

You will apply DFMA and motion analysis, support prototyping, and ensure compliance with automation safety standards. A Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering and 4+ years in robotics/automation design are required. Hybrid work setup with competitive salary and benefits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 4+ years of mechanical design experience in robotics/automation.
• Proficient in SolidWorks or Inventor and 2D drafting.
• Experience integrating mechanical with electrical and software components.
• Familiar with servo motors, linear actuators, sensors, pneumatics.
• Experience with DFM and DFA principles.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical systems, components, and sub-assemblies for robotic platforms and automation machinery using advanced CAD software.
• Create detailed 3D models, 2D manufacturing drawings, and BOMs.
• Perform engineering analyses, including stress, motion, and kinematic simulations.
• Integrate mechanical components into cohesive robotic systems.
• Collaborate with electrical and controls engineers for seamless integration.
• Support prototyping, testing, and validation activities; troubleshoot issues and implement design improvements.
• Ensure designs adhere to automation, safety, and quality standards.
• Research new technologies, materials, and processes to enhance innovation and efficiency.
• Prepare technical documentation including design reports and maintenance guidelines.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

2D drafting

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic innovator in robotics and automation solutions, is seeking a talented Mechanical Design Engineer to join their team in Upington, Northern Cape. This role is central to the design and development of cutting-edge robotic systems and automated manufacturing equipment. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of mechanical principles, mechatronics, and a passion for creating efficient and reliable automation solutions. You will work in a collaborative, hybrid environment, contributing to projects that are transforming industrial processes. This is an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of automation technology development.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical systems, components, and sub-assemblies for robotic platforms and automation machinery using advanced CAD software.
• Create detailed 3D models, 2D manufacturing drawings, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Perform engineering analyses, including stress, motion, and kinematic simulations, to optimize performance and reliability.
• Integrate various mechanical components, including motors, sensors, actuators, and end-effectors, into cohesive robotic systems.
• Collaborate closely with electrical and controls engineers to ensure seamless integration of mechanical and control systems.
• Support prototyping, testing, and validation activities, troubleshooting mechanical issues and implementing design improvements.
• Ensure designs adhere to industry standards for automation, safety, and quality.
• Research and evaluate new technologies, materials, and manufacturing processes to enhance product innovation and efficiency.
• Prepare technical documentation, including design reports, assembly instructions, and maintenance guidelines.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• A minimum of 4 years of experience in mechanical design, with a focus on robotics, automation, or complex machinery.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor) and 2D drafting.
• Understanding of mechatronics principles and experience integrating mechanical, electrical, and software components.
• Familiarity with automation components such as servo motors, linear actuators, sensors, and pneumatic systems.
• Experience with DFM (Design for Manufacturing) and DFA (Design for Assembly) principles.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Good communication and teamwork skills, crucial for a hybrid work setting.
• Ability to manage design tasks effectively and contribute to project timelines.
• Experience with motion control and kinematic simulations is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Employees benefit from opportunities for professional development and training, along with exposure to exciting and innovative projects.
• The hybrid work model provides flexibility, fostering a healthy work-life balance.
• You will be part of a forward-thinking company dedicated to advancing automation technology, working within a supportive and collaborative environment in Upington.
• Join us to shape the future of industry.