Principal Mechanical Systems Engineer

Placements24; Rustenburg; Presencial; ZAR 1.200.000 - 1.800.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Relocation assistance

Private medical aid

Pension fund

Professional development programs

Cutting-edge facilities

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Mechanical Systems Engineer for our client’s R&D division in Rustenburg, North West, South Africa. You will lead the design and integration of highly complex mechanical systems, guiding projects from concept to production release while mentoring engineers and shaping technical direction.

The role demands a strong background in CAD (Siemens NX, CATIA), advanced simulations (FEA/CFD), and a proven ability to translate requirements into robust, innovative

Formación

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or closely related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in mechanical design and systems engineering, with focus on complex product development.
• Proven ability to lead significant engineering projects and manage technical teams.
• Expert proficiency in advanced CAD software (Siemens NX, CATIA) and complex simulation suites (FEA, CFD).
• Strong understanding of mechanics, dynamics, control systems, and materials science.

Responsabilidades

• Lead conceptualization, design and development of highly complex mechanical systems from concept to production release.
• Provide technical leadership to project teams including engineers, designers and technicians.
• Perform advanced engineering analyses using FEA and CFD tools.
• Develop and optimize system architectures for seamless integration of components.
• Create and review detailed drawings, specifications, and documentation for clarity and completeness.
• Oversee prototyping, testing and validation activities; implement design refinements.

Conocimientos

Leadership

Mentoring

Project management

Analytical thinking

Communication

Educación

Master’s or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering

Herramientas

Siemens NX

CATIA

FEA

CFD

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client, a world-renowned leader in advanced manufacturing technologies, is seeking an exceptional Principal Mechanical Systems Engineer to join their prestigious research and development division in Rustenburg, North West. This is a senior-level role where you will spearhead the design and integration of complex mechanical systems, driving innovation and setting new benchmarks in product performance and reliability. You will be responsible for the technical direction of major projects, mentoring junior engineers, and ensuring that designs meet stringent performance, cost, and schedule requirements. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of mechanical engineering principles, a proven track record in leading complex design initiatives, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. This role is critical to our client’s ongoing commitment to technological excellence and market leadership in the Rustenburg industrial landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and development of highly complex mechanical systems from initial concept through to production release.
• Provide technical leadership and direction to project teams, including mechanical engineers, designers, and technicians.
• Perform advanced engineering analyses, including stress, vibration, thermal, and dynamic simulations, utilizing state-of-the-art FEA and CFD tools.
• Develop and optimize system architectures, ensuring seamless integration of various mechanical components and subsystems.
• Create and review detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation to ensure clarity, accuracy, and completeness.
• Oversee prototyping, experimental testing, and validation activities, analyzing results and implementing necessary design refinements.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional departments, including R&D, manufacturing, quality assurance, and supply chain, to ensure successful product realization.
• Identify and evaluate emerging technologies and materials that can enhance product performance and competitive advantage.
• Champion best practices in mechanical design, engineering standards, and project management.
• Mentor and develop engineering talent within the team, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Master’s or Ph.D. degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in mechanical design and systems engineering, with a significant focus on complex product development.
• Demonstrated experience in leading significant engineering projects and managing technical teams.
• Expert proficiency in advanced CAD software (e.g., Siemens NX, CATIA) and complex simulation suites (FEA, CFD).
• Deep understanding of advanced mechanics, dynamics, control systems, and materials science.
• Proven ability to translate complex technical requirements into robust and innovative engineering solutions.
• Exceptional problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Outstanding communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience working within regulated industries is highly desirable.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive compensation package, including a substantial base salary, annual bonus, and comprehensive benefits.
• This includes private medical aid, an excellent pension fund, and extensive opportunities for professional growth through advanced training programs, conferences, and certifications.
• Employees enjoy access to cutting-edge research facilities, challenging projects, and a collaborative environment dedicated to innovation.
• Additional benefits include relocation assistance if required, generous paid time off, and the opportunity to shape the future of mechanical engineering within a leading global company based in Rustenburg.

This is a career-defining role for a highly accomplished engineer.