Principal Mechanical Engineer - R&D Trailblazer (Hybrid)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Executive health insurance

Retirement plan

Bonuses and equity

Global conferences

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead complex product development in Sandton, Gauteng. You will drive advanced mechanical design, mentor engineers, and set architecture and performance targets for next‑generation systems.

The role requires a PhD or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering with 10+ years in product development, and expertise in CATIA/Siemens NX and ANSYS/Abaqus for cutting‑edge simulations. On‑site collaboration is essential for this senior position.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years of progressive mechanical product development experience.
• Experience leading complex projects from concept to production.
• Expertise in CAD and advanced simulation tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of advanced mechanical systems from ideation to launch.
• Mentor and guide a team of mechanical engineers.
• Perform advanced analyses (FEA, CFD, multi-physics) to validate designs.
• Define mechanical architecture, requirements and detailed specs.
• Oversee materials, manufacturing processes, and technology choices.
• Collaborate with electrical, software, industrial design and testing teams.
• Drive innovation and resolve complex technical challenges.
• Promote DFM/DFA, reliability, and design-for-testability practices.
• Engage suppliers and stakeholders to align on objectives.
• Contribute to strategic product development directions and roadmaps.

Skills

Technical leadership

Mentoring

Project leadership

Cross-functional teamwork

Education

PhD or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA

Siemens NX

ANSYS

Abaqus

Job description

Principal Mechanical Engineer - Product Development

About the RoleOur client, a highly innovative technology firm renowned for its cutting‑edge product development, is seeking an exceptional Principal Mechanical Engineer to join their elite team in Sandton, Gauteng. This senior role is pivotal in leading the design and development of complex mechanical systems for next‑generation products. The successful candidate will be a technical authority, driving innovation, mentoring junior engineers, and ensuring the highest standards of design integrity and performance. This is a demanding, on‑site position for an experienced professional looking to make a significant impact in a leading‑edge organization. You will be at the forefront of product innovation in a sophisticated Sandton, Gauteng setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and development of advanced mechanical systems and products from ideation through to market launch.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to a team of mechanical engineers, fostering technical excellence.
• Conduct sophisticated engineering analyses, including advanced FEA, CFD, and multi‑physics simulations to validate complex designs.
• Define and maintain mechanical architecture, system requirements, and detailed design specifications.
• Oversee the selection of materials, manufacturing processes, and technology solutions to meet product objectives.
• Collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams, including electrical, software, industrial design, and testing departments, to ensure seamless product integration.
• Drive problem‑solving efforts for complex technical challenges, architecting robust and innovative solutions.
• Champion best practices in mechanical engineering, including DFM/DFA, reliability engineering, and design for testability.
• Engage with external suppliers, partners, and stakeholders to ensure alignment and successful outcomes.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of product development and technology roadmaps.

Requirements

• PhD or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related advanced technical field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in mechanical product development, with a strong track record of leading complex projects from concept to production.
• Demonstrated expertise as a technical leader or principal engineer in a demanding product development environment.
• Exceptional proficiency in advanced CAD (e.g., CATIA, Siemens NX) and sophisticated simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus).
• Deep understanding of a wide range of materials, advanced manufacturing techniques, and industry‑specific standards.
• Outstanding analytical, problem‑solving, and strategic thinking capabilities.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and guide technical teams.
• Experience in areas such as mechatronics, robotics, or high‑performance systems is highly desirable.
• Proven ability to drive innovation and deliver successful, market‑leading products.

Benefits

• Highly competitive senior‑level annual salary of R.
• Comprehensive executive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement plan with significant company matching.
• Performance‑based bonuses and equity options.
• Substantial opportunities for professional growth, leadership development, and attending global conferences.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art research and development facilities.
• A highly stimulating and rewarding work environment in Sandton, Gauteng.