Principal Mechanical Systems Engineer

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Global projects

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, South Africa, is seeking a Principal Mechanical Systems Engineer to lead the design, development, and integration of complex mechanical systems, driving innovation, quality, and reliability. This senior role involves mentoring teams and shaping technical roadmaps.

The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering with 10+ years of leadership in multi-disciplinary projects, and hands-on experience with CAD/CAE tools and system-level design.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive mechanical design and systems engineering experience.
• Experience leading complex, multi-disciplinary engineering projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization, design and development of complex mechanical systems and subsystems.
• Provide senior technical leadership and mentorship to mechanical engineering teams.
• Perform advanced engineering analyses including stress, thermal, vibration and dynamics simulations.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Mentoring

Education

PhD or MSc in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SOLIDWORKS

NX

CATIA

ANSYS

Abaqus

COMSOL

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in specialized industrial equipment, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Mechanical Systems Engineer to join their advanced engineering team in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This senior role will be responsible for leading the design, development, and integration of complex mechanical systems, driving innovation and technical excellence. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in mechanical design, system dynamics, and product lifecycle management, with a proven track record of delivering robust and high-performance solutions. You will play a critical role in mentoring engineering teams, defining technical roadmaps, and ensuring the highest standards of quality and reliability are met. This is an unparalleled opportunity to make a significant impact within a forward-thinking organization based in Durban.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and development of complex mechanical systems and subsystems.
• Provide senior technical leadership and mentorship to mechanical engineering teams.
• Perform advanced engineering analysis, including stress, thermal, vibration, and dynamic simulations, using sophisticated software tools.
• Define system requirements, specifications, and architecture for new product development.
• Oversee the integration of mechanical systems with other engineering disciplines (e.g., electrical, software, controls).
• Develop and execute rigorous testing and validation plans for complex mechanical assemblies.
• Troubleshoot and resolve challenging technical issues encountered during design, development, or in the field.
• Contribute to strategic technology roadmaps and identify opportunities for innovation.
• Ensure designs meet stringent performance, reliability, safety, and cost targets.
• Author and review technical documentation, including design reports, patents, and technical publications.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mechanical design and systems engineering, with a significant portion in a lead or principal capacity.
• Deep expertise in multiple areas of mechanical engineering, such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, structural mechanics, kinematics, and dynamics.
• Advanced proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, NX, CATIA) and CAE/FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus, COMSOL).
• Proven experience in leading complex, multi-disciplinary engineering projects from inception to completion.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision‑making capabilities.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and guide technical teams.
• Experience with system‑level design and integration.
• Published research or patents in relevant engineering fields are highly desirable.
• Must be authorized to work in South Africa and reside in or be willing to relocate to Durban.

Benefits

• Exceptional remuneration package commensurate with the seniority of the role.
• Opportunity to lead groundbreaking engineering projects and shape technological advancements.
• Significant investment in professional development and continuous learning.
• Comprehensive health, life insurance, and retirement benefits.
• Relocation assistance available for exceptional candidates.
• Join a globally recognized company with a strong presence in Durban.