Mechanical Engineer - Product Development & Innovation

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 640,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Career growth

Product discounts

Performance bonuses

Creative environment

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a hands-on Mechanical Engineer to join the R&D team in Benoni, Gauteng. You will drive the full product development lifecycle, from concept to prototyping, testing and production support, applying design and manufacturing know-how to deliver innovative consumer products.

The role demands proficiency in 3D CAD (SolidWorks/Fusion 360), strong problem-solving, and collaboration with cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering is required.
• 5+ years of experience in product development and mechanical design in consumer electronics/durables preferred.
• Strong CAD and simulation tool proficiency.
• Experience with injection molding, die casting, sheet metal fabrication, and assembly processes.
• Prototyping experience and rapid prototyping methods are desirable.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and assemblies for new consumer products using CAD software.
• Create prototypes, conduct performance testing, and analyze results to refine designs.
• Collaborate with industrial designers, electrical engineers, and software developers throughout the product development process.
• Specify materials and manufacturing processes, working with suppliers.
• Perform tolerance analysis and design for manufacturability (DFM) and assembly (DFA).
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues during development and production phases.
• Document designs, test procedures, and technical specifications.
• Stay current with new technologies and design methodologies in product development.
• Contribute to innovation workshops and brainstorm future concepts.
• Ensure designs meet performance, cost, and quality targets.

Skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Fusion 360

3D CAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic company at the forefront of developing innovative consumer products, is seeking a creative and skilled Mechanical Engineer to join their R&D team in Benoni, Gauteng . This exciting role involves the full product development lifecycle, from initial concept generation and design to prototyping, testing, and final production support. You will leverage your expertise in mechanical design, materials, and manufacturing processes to bring new and improved products to market. The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineer with a passion for innovation, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge product development and see your designs come to life.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and assemblies for new consumer products using CAD software.
• Create prototypes, conduct performance testing, and analyze results to refine designs.
• Collaborate with industrial designers, electrical engineers, and software developers throughout the product development process.
• Specify materials and manufacturing processes, working closely with suppliers.
• Perform tolerance analysis and design for manufacturability (DFM) and assembly (DFA).
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues encountered during development and production phases.
• Document designs, test procedures, and technical specifications.
• Stay current with new technologies and design methodologies in product development.
• Contribute to innovation workshops and brainstorming sessions for future product concepts.
• Ensure product designs meet performance, cost, and quality targets.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in product development and mechanical design, preferably in the consumer electronics or durables industry.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360) and related simulation tools.
• Understanding of injection molding, die casting, sheet metal fabrication, and assembly processes.
• Experience with prototyping techniques and rapid prototyping methods.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects effectively.
• A portfolio showcasing previous product development work is highly desirable.
• Must be able to work effectively in a hybrid model in Benoni, Gauteng .

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive medical and dental insurance plans.
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional growth.
• Employee product discounts.
• Performance bonuses.
• Creative and dynamic work environment.
• Generous paid time off.