Principal Mechanical Engineer - Energy Systems

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer in Welkom, Free State, to lead innovative energy systems design and analysis. The role requires deep expertise in turbomachinery, thermodynamics, and structural mechanics, guiding a team of engineers and interacting with multi-disciplinary teams.

You will drive CAE analyses, develop specs, drawings, and documentation for complex assemblies, and shape the technology roadmap for advanced energy solutions in a fast-evolving sector.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in Mechanical Engineering with specialization in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural mechanics.
• 12+ years of progressive mechanical design/analysis experience focused on energy systems or turbomachinery.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of advanced mechanical systems for energy generation and storage.
• Perform detailed stress, thermal, vibration, and fatigue analyses using CAE tools.
• Develop technical specifications, drawings, and documentation for complex assemblies.
• Collaborate with electrical, materials, and project teams to deliver integrated solutions.
• Oversee testing/validation to meet performance and reliability standards.
• Mentor a team of engineers and drive technical excellence.
• Stay updated on new materials, technologies, and energy sector trends.
• Champion design for manufacturability, assembly, and serviceability.
• Contribute to strategic planning and technology roadmapping.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Mentoring

Interpersonal skills

Education

PhD or MSc in Mechanical Engineering (thermo/fluids/structures)

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

ANSYS

Abaqus

Star-CCM+

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic leader in renewable energy technology, is seeking an exceptional Principal Mechanical Engineer to drive innovation in energy systems. This senior role, based in Welkom, Free State , requires deep expertise in the design, analysis, and optimization of mechanical components and systems for power generation. You will be instrumental in leading complex projects, mentoring junior engineers, and influencing the strategic direction of our client's technological advancements in the rapidly evolving energy sector. This is a premier opportunity for a seasoned engineer to make a significant impact in Welkom .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and development of advanced mechanical systems for energy generation and storage applications.
• Perform detailed engineering analyses, including stress, thermal, vibration, and fatigue analysis, using state-of-the-art CAE tools.
• Develop comprehensive technical specifications, drawings, and documentation for complex mechanical assemblies.
• Collaborate closely with electrical engineers, materials scientists, and project managers to deliver integrated, high-performance solutions.
• Oversee the testing and validation of mechanical designs, ensuring they meet stringent performance and reliability standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical engineering challenges encountered throughout the product lifecycle.
• Mentor and guide a team of mechanical engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and innovation.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies, materials, and methodologies in the energy sector and mechanical engineering.
• Champion best practices in design for manufacturability, assembly, and serviceability.
• Contribute to strategic planning and technology roadmapping for future energy systems.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural mechanics.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in mechanical engineering design and analysis, with a significant focus on energy systems, turbomachinery, or related fields.
• Expert-level proficiency in advanced CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) and advanced FEA/CFD analysis tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus, Star-CCM+).
• In-depth knowledge of energy conversion principles, renewable energy technologies (solar, wind, etc.), and energy storage systems.
• Demonstrated experience in leading complex R&D projects from conception to implementation.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Proven track record of innovation and problem-solving in demanding technical environments.
• Experience with project management and a strong understanding of commercialization processes.

Benefits

Our client offers an exceptionally competitive salary package, excellent health and retirement benefits, and unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and innovation in the renewable energy sector. Join a forward-thinking company in Welkom that is shaping the future of energy and values its engineering talent.