Principal Mechanical Design Engineer - Aerospace Components

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a highly experienced Principal Mechanical Design Engineer for its client in Sandton, Gauteng. You will conceptualize, design, and validate complex aerospace components and systems, mentoring junior engineers and ensuring safety and performance through advanced analytical methods.

You will lead 3D CAD development, simulations, and cross-functional collaboration across systems engineering, manufacturing, and QA to deliver high-stakes aerospace projects with rigorous standards.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of progressive mechanical design experience, focused on aerospace applications.
• Advanced degree required (Master's or PhD) in mechanical or aerospace engineering.
• Experience with aerospace materials, manufacturing processes, and certification concepts.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of aerospace components and systems in accordance with industry standards.
• Create detailed 3D models and drawings using CATIA/SolidWorks and write specifications.
• Perform FEA/CFD and thermal analyses to ensure structural integrity and performance.
• Collaborate with systems engineers, aerodynamicists, materials specialists and manufacturing teams.
• Oversee prototype development, testing, and validation activities.
• Ensure compliance with ARP, DO-160 and customer specifications.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers.
• Drive design concepts and technologies to enhance product capabilities.
• Manage project timelines and maintain thorough technical documentation.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication

Systems engineering

Education

Master's or PhD in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering

Tools

CATIA V5/V6

SolidWorks

FEA

CFD

Job description

About the Role Our client, a distinguished player in the aerospace manufacturing sector, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Mechanical Design Engineer to join their esteemed team in Sandton, Gauteng. This role is pivotal in the conceptualization, design, and validation of complex aerospace components and systems. You will leverage your extensive engineering expertise to drive innovation, ensure the highest standards of safety and performance, and mentor junior engineers. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of aerospace mechanical design principles, advanced analytical techniques, and a proven track record in delivering critical aerospace projects. This is an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to the advancement of aerospace technology in Sandton, Gauteng.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of critical aerospace components and systems, adhering to stringent industry requirements.
• Develop detailed 3D models, engineering drawings, and specifications using advanced CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5/V6, SolidWorks).
• Conduct advanced engineering analyses, including Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and thermal analysis, to ensure structural integrity and performance.
• Collaborate closely with systems engineers, aerodynamicists, materials specialists, and manufacturing teams throughout the design lifecycle.
• Oversee and guide prototype development, rigorous testing (component and system level), and validation procedures.
• Ensure designs comply with aerospace standards (e.g., ARP, DO-160), regulatory requirements, and customer specifications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical design and performance issues.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of mechanical engineers and designers.
• Research and implement innovative design concepts and technologies to enhance product capabilities.
• Manage project timelines and technical documentation with meticulous attention to detail.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mechanical design, with a significant focus on aerospace applications.
• Expertise in CAD software and advanced simulation tools specifically for aerospace applications.
• In-depth knowledge of aerospace materials, manufacturing processes, and quality assurance protocols.
• Proven experience with systems engineering principles within an aerospace context.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership qualities and excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Familiarity with aerospace certification processes.
• Must hold or be eligible for security clearance and be legally authorized to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• Exceptional salary package commensurate with principal-level expertise.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings plan.
• Paid time off and excellent holiday allowances.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional development in aerospace engineering.
• Involvement in high-impact, cutting-edge aerospace projects in Sandton, Gauteng.
• A stimulating and challenging work environment.