Principal Mechanical Design Engineer - Industrial Machinery

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1.200.000 - 1.800.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Medical insurance

Retirement fund

Performance-based incentives

Professional development

Zusammenfassung

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Mechanical Design Engineer in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, to lead the design and innovation of heavy industrial machinery. You will drive technical direction and oversee the complete design lifecycle from concept to production, mentoring the engineering team.

The role requires a PhD or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering, 10+ years’ experience in industrial design, expert CAD/CAE skills (Siemens NX, CATIA V5), and a proven ability to manage multiple complex projects

Qualifikationen

• PhD or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering required.
• Minimum 10 years' experience in mechanical design for heavy industrial equipment.
• Proven leadership of design projects and mentoring teams.
• Expert CAD/CAE skills with Siemens NX and CATIA V5.

Aufgaben

• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to the mechanical design team.
• Lead the complete design lifecycle from concept to production release.
• Develop complex 3D models and detailed drawings.
• Perform advanced calculations and simulations (FEA/CFD).
• Collaborate with manufacturing and service to optimize for production and field support.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations.

Kenntnisse

Leadership

Mentoring

Project management

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Technical leadership

Ausbildung

PhD/Master’s in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Siemens NX

CATIA V5

CAE/FEA tools

Jobbeschreibung

About the Role Our client, a highly respected manufacturer of industrial machinery, is seeking an experienced Principal Mechanical Design Engineer to join their esteemed engineering department in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This senior position is critical for leading the design and innovation of complex industrial equipment. You will be responsible for driving the technical direction of new product development, ensuring robust, efficient, and reliable machinery solutions. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of mechanical principles, extensive experience in designing heavy industrial equipment, and exceptional leadership qualities. This role offers a significant opportunity to influence product strategy and contribute to the company's continued success in the global market. We are dedicated to nurturing talent and providing a challenging yet rewarding career path within a supportive environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to the mechanical design engineering team.
• Lead the complete design lifecycle of industrial machinery, from conceptualization through to detailed design, prototyping, and production release.
• Develop complex 3D models, detailed engineering drawings, and comprehensive technical documentation using advanced CAD software.
• Perform advanced engineering calculations and simulations (e.g., FEA, CFD, dynamic analysis) to validate design integrity and performance under demanding conditions.
• Collaborate closely with the manufacturing, assembly, and service departments to ensure designs are optimized for production and field support (DFM/DFA).
• Specify materials, components, and sub-assemblies, ensuring adherence to quality standards and cost targets.
• Research and evaluate new technologies, materials, and design methodologies to drive innovation and competitive advantage.
• Troubleshoot and resolve intricate mechanical design issues encountered during product development or in the field.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and roadmap development for future product lines.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant safety standards, regulations, and industry best practices.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in mechanical design engineering, with a substantial focus on industrial machinery or heavy equipment.
• Proven expertise in leading complex design projects and mentoring engineering teams.
• Expert-level proficiency in industry-standard CAD software (e.g., Siemens NX, CATIA V5) and advanced CAE/FEA tools.
• Deep understanding of mechanical systems, including hydraulics, pneumatics, power transmission, and structural mechanics.
• Strong knowledge of material selection, metallurgy, and advanced manufacturing processes.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Experience with international design standards and compliance requirements.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including top-tier medical insurance, a robust retirement fund, and performance-based incentives. We provide ample opportunities for professional development, including further education, specialized training, and attending industry conferences. Employees benefit from a dynamic work environment in Durban, access to cutting-edge technology, and the chance to work on globally significant engineering projects. Join our team and make a lasting impact on the industrial engineering landscape.