Principal Mechanical Engineer - Advanced Manufacturing

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus potential

Stock options

Relocation support

R&D facilities access

Publish research

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Mechanical Engineer to drive innovation and technical excellence in Rustenburg, North West. You will lead design, development, and optimization of complex manufacturing equipment and automated systems, defining future product roadmaps and guiding multi-disciplinary teams.

Bring 12+ years in mechanical engineering with a strong background in advanced manufacturing, automation, or robotics, plus mastery of CAD/CAE tools and simulation software.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering.
• 12+ years in mechanical engineering with focus on advanced manufacturing, automation, or robotics.
• Expertise in complex system design, kinematics, dynamics, and control systems integration.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAE tools and simulation software (ANSYS, COMSOL, Siemens NX).
• Proven ability to lead technical teams and manage multi-disciplinary projects.
• Strong problem-solving skills and track record of innovation.

Responsibilities

• Spearhead conceptualization and design of next‑gen manufacturing machinery and automation systems.
• Provide expert technical leadership and mentorship to engineering teams.
• Conduct advanced analysis including dynamic simulations, fatigue analysis, and thermal management.
• Define technical specifications and architectural requirements for new product developments.
• Evaluate emerging technologies for enhancing manufacturing processes.
• Collaborate with R&D to translate innovations into viable solutions.
• Lead design reviews ensuring performance, safety, and quality standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues in development and production.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

ANSYS

COMSOL

Siemens NX

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in advanced manufacturing solutions, is looking for a highly experienced Principal Mechanical Engineer to drive innovation and technical excellence within their Rustenburg, North West facility. This senior position will focus on the design, development, and optimization of complex manufacturing equipment and automated systems. You will be a key contributor to strategic R&D initiatives, leveraging your deep technical expertise to solve challenging problems and define future product roadmaps. This role requires a visionary thinker with a proven track record in delivering breakthrough engineering solutions. You will collaborate with international teams and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of manufacturing technology for our client. We are committed to providing a stimulating work environment where top engineering talent can thrive and contribute to significant technological advancements. The successful candidate will act as a technical authority, guiding project teams and influencing design decisions at the highest level.

Key Responsibilities

• Spearhead the conceptualization and design of next-generation manufacturing machinery and automation systems.
• Provide expert technical leadership and mentorship to engineering teams across multiple projects.
• Conduct advanced analysis, including dynamic simulations, fatigue analysis, and thermal management, to ensure system reliability and performance.
• Define technical specifications and architectural requirements for new product developments.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and their potential application in enhancing manufacturing processes.
• Collaborate with research and development departments to translate innovative concepts into viable engineering solutions.
• Lead design reviews, ensuring all designs meet stringent performance, safety, and quality standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues encountered during product development and production.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• 12+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, with a significant focus on advanced manufacturing, automation, or robotics.
• Demonstrated expertise in complex system design, kinematics, dynamics, and control systems integration.
• Proficiency in advanced CAD/CAE tools and simulation software (e.g., ANSYS, COMSOL, Siemens NX).
• Proven ability to lead technical teams and manage complex, multi-disciplinary projects.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills and a track record of innovation.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and industry best practices.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information to diverse audiences.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and executive benefits package.
• Significant bonus potential and stock options.
• Relocation support for candidates relocating to Rustenburg, North West.
• Access to state-of-the-art research and development facilities.
• Opportunities to publish research and present at international conferences.
• Professional development and leadership training programs.
• A challenging and intellectually stimulating work environment with high visibility.