Principal Mechanical Engineer

Placements24; Welkom; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Relocation assistance

Career development

International travel

Paid time off

Employee assistance program

Job summary

Placements24 in Welkom, Free State, is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead design and development of complex mechanical systems. You will drive innovation, oversee prototyping, testing, and validation, and mentor a team of engineers.

The role requires a Master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, 10+ years of experience, and expert CAD/FEA skills. On-site collaboration with cross-functional teams is essential, with opportunities to shape technology roadmaps and manufacturing

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineering.
• 10+ years in mechanical design and product development.
• Expert CAD (SolidWorks/CATIA) and FEA/CFD tools (ANSYS/Abaqus).
• Experience in industrial automation or heavy machinery.
• On-site in Welkom, Free State.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of complex mechanical systems from concept to production.
• Apply advanced engineering principles (FEA, CFD) to optimise designs.
• Develop detailed 3D CAD models, drawings, and BOMs.
• Oversee prototyping, testing, and validation phases.
• Collaborate with electrical, software, and manufacturing teams for system integration.
• Provide technical mentorship to junior engineers.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Communication

Problem solving

Analytical thinking

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

ANSYS

Abaqus

Job description

About the Role Our client, a globally recognized leader in industrial automation, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Mechanical Engineer to join their esteemed engineering division in Welkom, Free State . This role represents a significant opportunity for an accomplished engineer to contribute to the design and development of next-generation machinery and complex electromechanical systems. You will be expected to provide expert technical guidance, drive innovation, and mentor junior team members. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of mechanical principles, extensive experience in product development, and a passion for solving challenging engineering problems. This position requires a hands‑on approach and close collaboration with cross‑functional teams within our state-of-the-art facility. We offer a stimulating work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and a chance to work on projects that are at the forefront of technological advancement in the Welkom region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of complex mechanical systems and components from concept to production, ensuring performance, reliability, and manufacturability.
• Apply advanced engineering principles and analytical techniques (FEA, CFD) to optimize designs and solve intricate technical challenges.
• Develop detailed 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, and comprehensive Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Oversee and contribute to the prototyping, testing, and validation phases of new product development.
• Collaborate closely with electrical, software, and manufacturing engineering teams to ensure seamless system integration.
• Provide expert technical mentorship and guidance to junior and mid-level mechanical engineers.
• Conduct thorough design reviews and risk assessments, ensuring compliance with industry standards and safety regulations.
• Investigate and resolve complex mechanical issues that arise during production or field deployment.
• Research and recommend innovative materials, technologies, and manufacturing processes to enhance product capabilities.
• Contribute to strategic planning for future product development and technology roadmaps.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in mechanical design and product development, with a proven track record of leading complex projects.
• Expert proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) and advanced simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus).
• In-depth knowledge of mechanics of materials, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, vibrations, and control systems.
• Experience with various manufacturing processes (machining, casting, molding, fabrication).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced team environment.
• Experience in the industrial automation or heavy machinery sector is highly desirable.
• Must be able to work on-site in Welkom, Free State .

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance bonus structure.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Generous retirement fund contributions.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning, and career advancement.
• Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and research facilities.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• A challenging and rewarding work environment at our Welkom facility.
• Employee assistance program.
• Potential for international travel for key projects.