Mechanical Engineer - Product Development

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 640,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Collaborative team atmosphere

Generous paid leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join the product development team in Kimberley, Northern Cape. You will design mechanical components for consumer products, create 3D models and BOMs, and perform simulations to ensure reliability across new and existing lines.

Collaborate with industrial designers and electrical teams to integrate aesthetics with mechanical integrity, while supporting prototypes, DFMs, and safety certifications. On-site work is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• 3–5 years of mechanical design and product development experience.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks or Fusion 360.
• Experience with plastics, sheet metal, and injection molding.
• Familiarity with FEA and simulations.
• On-site work in Kimberley, Northern Cape.

Responsibilities

• Design mechanical components and assemblies for consumer products using CAD.
• Create 3D models, drawings, and BOMs.
• Perform stress, thermal, and vibration simulations to ensure reliability.
• Collaborate with industrial designers to balance aesthetics and mechanics.
• Work with electrical/firmware teams for integrated systems.
• Support prototypes, testing, and issue resolution.
• Ensure designs are optimized for mass production (DFM).
• Contribute from concept through launch.
• Stay updated on materials and manufacturing techniques.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and certifications.

Skills

3D CAD software

Mechanical design

Problem solving

Teamwork

Education

BEng Mechanical

Tools

SolidWorks

Fusion 360

FEA tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an established innovator in consumer electronics and appliances, is seeking a dedicated Mechanical Engineer to join their product development team in Kimberley, Northern Cape . This role is central to the design, development, and refinement of mechanical aspects for new and existing product lines. You will work closely with industrial designers, electrical engineers, and manufacturing teams to bring high-quality, user-centric products to market. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of mechanical design principles, materials, and manufacturing processes, with a keen eye for detail and a passion for product innovation. This position offers a dynamic environment and the chance to contribute to products used by consumers daily.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and assemblies for consumer products using CAD software.
• Create detailed 3D models, 2D drawings, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Conduct mechanical analysis, including stress, thermal, and vibration simulations, to ensure product reliability.
• Collaborate with industrial designers to achieve desired aesthetics and ergonomics while maintaining mechanical integrity.
• Work closely with electrical engineering and firmware teams to ensure seamless integration of mechanical and electronic systems.
• Support prototype builds, testing, and validation efforts, identifying and resolving design issues.
• Liaise with manufacturing partners to ensure designs are optimized for mass production (DFM).
• Contribute to the product development process from concept through to launch and beyond.
• Stay updated on new materials, manufacturing techniques, and technologies relevant to consumer products.
• Ensure compliance with product safety standards and certifications.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• 3-5 years of experience in mechanical design and product development, preferably in consumer electronics or appliances.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360).
• Understanding of injection molding, plastic part design, and sheet metal fabrication.
• Basic knowledge of FEA and other simulation tools is a plus.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Good communication and collaboration abilities.
• Experience working in an R&D or product development environment.
• Familiarity with product testing procedures and quality control.
• Commitment to working on-site in Kimberley, Northern Cape .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package tailored to the candidate's experience and qualifications, along with potential performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits are provided.
• Opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement are available.
• Employees will have the chance to work on exciting new product development projects within a collaborative team atmosphere.
• The work environment in Kimberley, Northern Cape encourages innovation and teamwork.
• Benefits include generous paid leave and access to modern design and testing facilities.