Principal Mechanical Engineer

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Profit sharing

Stock options

Hybrid work arrangement

Professional development budget

Job summary

Placements24 in Pretoria is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to provide technical leadership for advanced engineering initiatives. You will tackle the most challenging mechanical design problems, drive innovation, and influence the technical roadmap for critical projects.

You will mentor a team of engineers, champion best practices, and ensure the highest standards of technical execution. The role offers hybrid work, executive-level compensation with profit sharing, stock options, and

Qualifications

• Doctorate or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• 15+ years of progressive mechanical engineering experience with focus on complex system design and leadership
• Expertise in advanced materials, control systems, thermal management, robotics
• Proven track record leading large-scale, technically complex projects from concept to completion
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Strong communication, presentation and interpersonal skills to influence stakeholders

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of complex mechanical systems and components, ensuring alignment with strategic business objectives
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to engineering teams, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement
• Conduct advanced engineering analyses, including complex simulations and experimental validation, to solve critical design challenges
• Define and implement engineering standards, processes, and best practices across the department
• Collaborate with senior management and cross-functional leaders to define project scope, requirements, and technical strategies
• Represent the company in technical forums and contribute to industry standards development

Education

Doctorate or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Mechanical Engineer to provide expert technical leadership and strategic direction for their advanced engineering initiatives in Pretoria . This senior role involves tackling the most challenging mechanical design problems, driving innovation, and influencing the technical roadmap for critical projects. You will mentor a team of engineers, champion best practices, and ensure the highest standards of technical execution. This position is ideal for a seasoned engineer who possesses deep technical expertise and a passion for pushing the boundaries of mechanical engineering.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of complex mechanical systems and components, ensuring alignment with strategic business objectives.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to engineering teams, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Conduct advanced engineering analyses, including complex simulations and experimental validation, to solve critical design challenges.
• Define and implement engineering standards, processes, and best practices across the department.
• Collaborate with senior management and cross-functional leaders to define project scope, requirements, and technical strategies.
• Represent the company in technical forums and contribute to industry standards development.

Requirements

• Doctorate or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related advanced technical field.
• 15+ years of progressive experience in mechanical engineering, with a significant focus on complex system design and technical leadership.
• Demonstrated expertise in multiple specialized areas of mechanical engineering (e.g., advanced materials, control systems, thermal management, robotics).
• Proven track record of successfully leading large-scale, technically complex projects from concept to completion.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package including base salary and significant profit sharing.
• Comprehensive top-tier health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Executive retirement planning and stock options.
• Generous professional development budget for conferences and advanced training.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility and focused work time.