Principal Mechanical Engineer - R&D Trailblazer (Hybrid)

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 2,000,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level compensation

Hybrid work arrangement

Professional growth & patent support

Health & retirement benefits

Discretionary bonuses

Flexible time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer to head R&D efforts in Sandton, Gauteng. You will guide projects from concept to prototype, lead a team of engineers, and translate innovative ideas into viable mechanical solutions.

The role requires a Ph.D. or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering, 8–10 years in R&D, and strong CAD/FEA skills. Hybrid work arrangement and collaboration with cross-functional teams are central to the position.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or closely related field.
• 8–10 years in mechanical design and development with R&D focus.
• Proven experience leading engineering teams on complex projects.
• Expertise in advanced CAD and simulation tools (FEA, CFD).
• Strong background in materials science, thermodynamics and fluid dynamics.
• Knowledge of rapid prototyping and modern manufacturing processes.
• Excellent communication, leadership and collaboration in hybrid settings.
• Experience with patent applications is a plus; based in Sandton as required by hybrid model.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical engineering aspects of R&D projects from ideation to prototype.
• Direct and mentor a team of mechanical engineers.
• Design innovative systems, components and mechanisms.
• Perform advanced analyses (FEA, CFD) to validate designs.
• Stay updated on new technologies and materials relevant to the industry.
• Collaborate with cross-functional R&D teams (electrical, software, systems).
• Develop and execute testing and validation strategies.
• Manage project timelines, resources and budgets.
• Prepare technical reports and IP disclosures.
• Foster innovation and continuous improvement within the team.

Skills

Leadership

CAD software

FEA/CFD simulations

Materials science

Thermodynamics & fluids

Rapid prototyping

Education

Ph.D. or Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

None specified

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer to head R&D efforts in Sandton, Gauteng. You will guide projects from concept to prototype, lead a team of engineers, and translate innovative ideas into viable mechanical solutions.

The role requires a Ph.D. or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering, 8–10 years in R&D, and strong CAD/FEA skills. Hybrid work arrangement and collaboration with cross-functional teams are central to the position.