Principal Mechanical Engineer - Industrial Systems

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Base salary + bonuses

Medical coverage

Retirement fund

Life insurance

Paid time off

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead design initiatives at our Centurion, Gauteng facility. This senior role demands extensive technical expertise, mentoring, and a strategic vision to develop next-generation machinery.

You will tackle complex mechanical challenges, drive design excellence, and collaborate across R&D, manufacturing, QA, and project management to ensure successful product realization.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering with 10–12 years in mechanical design.
• Proven leadership in complex industrial equipment projects; strong CAD/FEA/CFD skills.
• Excellent communication and mentoring abilities; eligible to work in Centurion, Gauteng.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization, design, and development of large-scale mechanical systems.
• Perform advanced engineering calculations (stress, thermal, vibration) with simulation tools.
• Provide technical leadership and mentor engineers.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, QA, and project management.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Analytical thinking

Communication

Mentoring

System dynamics

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks Premium

CATIA

FEA

CFD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier manufacturer of specialized industrial equipment, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead design initiatives in their Centurion, Gauteng facility. This senior role demands extensive technical expertise and strategic vision to drive the development of next-generation machinery. You will be responsible for tackling the most complex mechanical challenges, mentoring junior engineers, and ensuring the highest standards of design excellence and product reliability. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in leading complex projects, a deep understanding of advanced mechanical principles, and a passion for innovation within the industrial sector. This is an on-site position offering direct engagement with state-of-the-art facilities and a collaborative engineering environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and development of large-scale, complex mechanical systems and machinery.
• Perform advanced engineering calculations, including stress, thermal, vibration, and fatigue analysis, using sophisticated simulation tools.
• Develop and implement innovative design solutions that enhance performance, efficiency, and maintainability.
• Create and maintain comprehensive design documentation, including detailed CAD models, engineering drawings, specifications, and BOMs.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of mechanical engineers and designers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, manufacturing, quality assurance, and project management, to ensure successful product realization.
• Oversee and guide prototyping, testing and validation activities to verify design integrity.
• Investigate and resolve complex technical issues encountered during product development and in the field.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in mechanical engineering.
• Contribute to strategic technical planning and roadmap development for new product lines.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum of 10-12 years of relevant experience in mechanical design and engineering, with significant experience in leading complex projects within the industrial equipment sector.
• Expert proficiency in advanced CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks Premium, CATIA) and simulation tools (FEA, CFD).
• In-depth knowledge of material science, manufacturing processes (machining, welding, casting, forging), and structural mechanics.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities and experience mentoring engineering teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong understanding of system dynamics and control principles.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Eligibility to work in Centurion, Gauteng is essential.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive compensation package, including an excellent base salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Benefits include comprehensive medical coverage, a robust retirement fund, life insurance, and generous paid time off.
• You will have access to ongoing professional development, training programs, and opportunities for career advancement within a leading organization.
• The role is based in our modern facility in Centurion, Gauteng , providing a dynamic and stimulating work environment.
• We foster a culture of innovation and collaboration, where your contributions are recognized and rewarded.
• Join a company committed to engineering excellence and technological advancement.