Remote Lead Mechanical Engineer - Advanced Materials

Placements24; Vrystaat; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation package

Full remote work flexibility

Professional development opportunities

Access to state-of-the-art simulation

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Lead Mechanical Engineer to drive mechanical design initiatives from a remote location within South Africa. You will spearhead a globally distributed team, guiding conceptualization to validation of complex systems using advanced materials.

This remote-first role requires a seasoned leader with a track record in materials science and engineering leadership. You will oversee CAD/CAE/FEA-driven design processes, mentor engineers, and collaborate with R&D to push

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in Mechanical Engineering with materials science/advanced manufacturing focus.
• 12+ years in mechanical design, incl. 5+ years in leadership roles.
• Experience with advanced materials (composites, ceramics, specialty alloys).
• Proficiency in CAD/FEA tools and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of complex mechanical systems using advanced materials.
• Mentor and manage a globally distributed team of engineers.
• Oversee conceptual design, feasibility, and validation efforts.
• Perform simulations and analyses for performance, durability, and material behavior.
• Collaborate with R&D to apply new material technologies in designs
• Establish and enforce best practices for design documentation and quality control.
• Oversee prototyping, testing, and validation activities.
• Serve as a technical contact for cross-functional teams and partners.
• Stay ahead of advancements in mechanical engineering, materials science, and additive manufacturing.

Skills

Leadership

Remote leadership

CAD proficiency

FEA expertise

Education

PhD or MSc in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

ANSYS

SolidWorks

CATIA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, at the forefront of materials science innovation, is seeking a visionary Lead Mechanical Engineer to spearhead mechanical design initiatives from a remote location, anywhere within **South Africa**. This fully remote role requires a seasoned professional with extensive experience in designing complex systems incorporating advanced materials. You will lead a globally distributed team of engineers, guiding them through the entire design process from conceptualization to validation, ensuring cutting‑edge solutions are delivered. This is a unique opportunity to drive innovation in a flexible, remote‑first environment, making significant contributions to groundbreaking projects without geographical limitations. If you are a leader passionate about materials engineering and advanced design, this role offers unparalleled impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of intricate mechanical systems, with a focus on integrating advanced and novel materials.
• Manage and mentor a team of remote mechanical engineers, overseeing project execution and technical direction.
• Develop and refine conceptual designs, ensuring feasibility and alignment with project objectives.
• Utilize advanced CAD, CAE, and FEA tools to perform complex simulations and analyses for performance, durability, and material behavior.
• Collaborate with research and development teams to explore and implement new material applications in mechanical designs.
• Establish and enforce best practices for mechanical design, documentation, and quality control within the remote team.
• Oversee prototyping, testing, and validation efforts, ensuring designs meet rigorous specifications.
• Act as a key technical point of contact for cross‑functional teams and external partners.
• Stay at the forefront of advancements in mechanical engineering, materials science, and additive manufacturing.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, with a specialization in materials science or advanced manufacturing.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in mechanical design, with at least 5 years in a leadership or lead engineer role.
• Extensive experience designing with advanced materials (e.g., composites, ceramics, specialty alloys) and understanding their mechanical properties.
• Expert proficiency in advanced CAD, FEA software, and data analysis tools.
• Proven track record of leading successful engineering projects and teams, particularly in a remote or distributed setting.
• Exceptional problem‑solving abilities and a deep understanding of failure analysis.
• Superior communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills, suitable for managing a global remote team.
• Demonstrated experience with R&D and bringing new technologies to market.
• Ability to travel occasionally for critical meetings or project oversight.

Benefits

• Executive‑level compensation package, including base salary and significant performance bonuses.
• Full remote work flexibility, allowing work from anywhere in **South Africa**.
• Opportunity to lead innovation at the intersection of mechanical engineering and advanced materials.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art simulation tools and resources.
• Professional development opportunities, including conferences and specialized training.
• Be part of a world‑class research and development organization.
• Flexible working hours to accommodate global team collaboration.