Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Top-tier compensation

Remote autonomy

Engineering impact

Health & retirement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Mechanical Design Engineer for a fully remote role. This senior position drives innovation by leading the design of highly complex mechanical systems, mentoring engineers, and setting the technical direction for major projects.

The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D. or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering, brings 12+ years of leadership in design, and demonstrates expertise in CAD/FEA, materials, robotics, and manufacturing processes.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 12+ years of progressive mechanical design and engineering leadership experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in a specialized area of mechanical engineering (e.g., advanced materials, complex mechanisms, robotics).
• Expert proficiency in CAD and FEA software tools.
• Strong understanding of product development lifecycles, manufacturing processes, and quality assurance.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization, design, and development of highly complex mechanical systems and products.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to engineering teams.
• Define and establish design standards, best practices, and methodologies.
• Conduct advanced analyses, including stress, thermal, and dynamic simulations, to ensure optimal performance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional leadership to set technical strategy and roadmaps.
• Oversee prototype development, testing, and validation for critical projects.

Skills

CAD

Leadership

Mentoring

Remote leadership

Materials expertise

Education

Ph.D. or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CAD software

FEA software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished Principal Mechanical Design Engineer for a fully remote position. This senior role is critical to driving innovation and technical excellence within our client's engineering division. You will be responsible for leading the design of highly complex mechanical systems, mentoring junior engineers, and setting the technical direction for major projects. The ideal candidate is a visionary leader with deep expertise in mechanical design principles and a passion for solving the most challenging engineering problems, contributing to the company's technological advancements from a remote setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and development of highly complex mechanical systems and products.


• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to engineering teams.


• Define and establish design standards, best practices, and methodologies.


• Conduct advanced analysis, including stress, thermal, and dynamic simulations, to ensure optimal performance.


• Collaborate with cross-functional leadership to set technical strategy and roadmaps.


• Oversee prototype development, testing, and validation for critical projects.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.


• 12+ years of progressive experience in mechanical design and engineering leadership.


• Demonstrated expertise in a specialized area of mechanical engineering (e.g., advanced materials, complex mechanisms, robotics).


• Expert proficiency in CAD and FEA software tools.


• Strong understanding of product development lifecycles, manufacturing processes, and quality assurance.


• Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills for leading remote teams.

Benefits

• Top-tier compensation package, including substantial bonuses and equity options.


• Fully remote work arrangement with significant autonomy.


• Opportunity to shape the future of mechanical engineering within the company.


• Comprehensive health, wellness, and retirement benefits.


• Access to cutting-edge technology and resources for innovation.