Principal Mechanical Engineer

Placements24; Richards Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental & vision insurance

Retirement savings plan

Relocation assistance

Professional development & training

International travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Mechanical Engineer to drive innovation in Richards Bay. You will lead the design of complex mechanical systems, mentor a team of engineers, and influence the company’s long‑term technology roadmap.

The role demands strategic leadership and hands‑on expertise in simulation tools and machine design. You will collaborate with R&D, manufacturing and project teams to deliver robust, safe, and cost‑effective solutions in a heavy industrial setting, with a hybrid

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering (or related field).
• 10–15 years in mechanical engineering with focus on complex system design.
• Proven track record leading large‑scale mechanical projects.
• Expertise in CATIA, Siemens NX and FEA/CFD tools.
• Deep understanding of machine design, dynamics, materials science and manufacturing.
• Strong leadership, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in heavy industrial machinery is desirable.
• Strategic thinker; capable of solving complex problems.
• Proficient in project management and risk assessment.
• Willingness to work a hybrid schedule in Richards Bay.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of highly complex mechanical systems from concept to production.
• Provide expert guidance and mentorship to engineers and designers.
• Conduct advanced structural, thermal and vibration analyses with state‑of‑the‑art tools.
• Define technical strategies and roadmaps for mechanical engineering.
• Oversee prototype development, testing and performance validation.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing and project management for project success.
• Identify and implement innovative design solutions and new technologies.
• Troubleshoot critical issues and develop robust corrective actions.
• Represent engineering in high‑level technical reviews.
• Ensure designs comply with safety standards and customer requirements.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Communication

Problem solving

Strategic thinking

Education

Master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA

Siemens NX

FEA/CFD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in heavy industrial machinery, is seeking an exceptional Principal Mechanical Engineer to drive innovation and technical excellence within their Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal facility. This senior role demands a visionary leader with extensive experience in the design, development, and optimization of complex mechanical systems. You will be responsible for tackling the most challenging engineering problems, mentoring a team of talented engineers, and influencing the company's long-term technological roadmap. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of mechanical principles, advanced simulation techniques, and a proven ability to deliver robust solutions in demanding environments. This position requires a blend of technical mastery, strategic thinking, and leadership capabilities, contributing significantly to the company's competitive edge in the global market. You will play a crucial role in shaping future product generations and ensuring the highest standards of quality and performance. This is an unparalleled opportunity for a seasoned engineer to make a substantial impact in the Richards Bay industrial landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of highly complex mechanical systems and equipment from concept to production.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to a team of mechanical engineers and designers.
• Conduct advanced engineering analysis, including structural, thermal, and vibration analysis, using state-of-the-art simulation tools.
• Define technical strategies and roadmaps for mechanical engineering within the organization.
• Oversee and validate prototype development, testing, and performance validation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional departments, including R&D, manufacturing, and project management, to ensure project success.
• Identify and implement innovative design solutions and new technologies to enhance product performance and cost-effectiveness.
• Troubleshoot critical engineering issues and develop robust corrective actions.
• Represent the engineering department in high-level technical discussions and reviews.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant safety standards, regulations, and customer requirements.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in mechanical engineering, with a significant focus on complex system design.
• Proven track record of successfully leading large-scale mechanical engineering projects.
• Expertise in advanced CAD software (e.g., CATIA, Siemens NX) and sophisticated FEA/CFD tools.
• Deep understanding of machine design, dynamics, materials science, and manufacturing processes.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in the heavy industrial machinery sector is highly desirable.
• Ability to think strategically and solve complex, multifaceted problems.
• Proficiency in project management and risk assessment.
• Willingness to work a hybrid schedule, balancing remote work with on-site collaboration in Richards Bay.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
• Access to advanced technologies and cutting-edge research.
• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.
• A dynamic work environment with a focus on innovation and excellence in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.
• Potential for international travel and collaboration.