Remote Lead Mechanical Engineer - Advanced Materials Processing

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Healthcare coverage

Stock option plan

Remote work

Paid time off

Bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Lead Mechanical Engineer to drive innovation in advanced materials processing. This fully remote role requires leading design and development of complex mechanical systems, guiding a dispersed team of engineers, and delivering high-quality results in a virtual environment.

You should have a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering (PhD a plus) and 10+ years of experience with CAD/CAE (SolidWorks, ANSYS), plus expertise in materials science, thermodynamics, and process

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field; PhD is a strong asset.
• 10+ years of progressive mechanical engineering experience designing complex equipment for specialized processes (high-temperature, high-pressure, vacuum).
• Experience leading engineering teams in remote or distributed settings.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAE software; strong structural, thermal, and dynamic analysis.
• Strong knowledge of materials science, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and process engineering.
• Innovative problem-solving and excellent virtual communication.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and integration of advanced mechanical systems for materials processing.
• Oversee the design lifecycle from conceptualization to commissioning.
• Develop and mentor a team of mechanical engineers in a remote setting.
• Utilize CAD/CAE tools (SolidWorks, ANSYS) for modeling, simulation, and analysis.
• Ensure designs meet performance, reliability, safety, and cost targets.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams in a virtual setting.
• Define and execute testing protocols for equipment and upgrades.
• Conduct root cause analyses for mechanical failures and implement solutions.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies in mechanical engineering and materials science.
• Prepare and present detailed technical documentation and proposals.

Skills

Lead engineering teams

CAD/CAE proficiency

Structural analysis

Thermal analysis

Dynamic analysis

Remote collaboration

Project leadership

Mechatronics expertise

Control systems integration

Communication skills

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

PhD (asset)

Tools

SolidWorks

ANSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering company at the forefront of advanced materials processing technology, is seeking an exceptional Remote Lead Mechanical Engineer to drive innovation and excellence. This role is entirely remote, offering unparalleled flexibility to collaborate with a world-class, geographically dispersed team of experts. You will be instrumental in conceptualizing, designing, and developing sophisticated mechanical systems and equipment essential for the processing and manufacturing of novel materials. This position demands a deep understanding of complex mechanical principles, creative problem-solving, and the ability to lead projects from initial ideation through to successful implementation. The ideal candidate is a self-starter, capable of managing multiple priorities and delivering high-quality results in a virtual environment. Join us in pushing the boundaries of material science and engineering, working on cutting-edge projects that will shape future industries.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and integration of advanced mechanical systems and equipment for materials processing applications.
• Oversee the entire design lifecycle, from conceptualization and feasibility studies to detailed engineering, prototyping, and commissioning.
• Develop and mentor a team of mechanical engineers, providing technical guidance and fostering a collaborative remote work culture.
• Utilize advanced CAD/CAE tools (e.g., SolidWorks, ANSYS) for complex modeling, simulation, and analysis of mechanical designs.
• Ensure designs meet stringent performance, reliability, safety, and cost targets for unique material processing requirements.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including materials scientists, chemical engineers, and controls engineers, in a virtual setting.
• Define and execute comprehensive testing protocols for new equipment and system upgrades.
• Conduct thorough root cause analyses for any mechanical failures and implement effective, sustainable solutions.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and research in mechanical engineering, materials science, and process automation.
• Prepare and present detailed technical documentation, reports, and project proposals to stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field; PhD is a strong asset.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive mechanical engineering experience, with significant experience in designing complex equipment for specialized processes (e.g., high-temperature, high-pressure, vacuum environments).
• Proven experience in leading engineering teams and managing complex projects in a remote or distributed setting.
• Expert proficiency in advanced CAD/CAE software and a deep understanding of structural, thermal, and dynamic analysis.
• Strong knowledge of materials science, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and process engineering principles.
• Demonstrated ability to innovate and solve challenging engineering problems.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills, adapted for virtual collaboration.
• Experience with mechatronics, automation, and control systems integration is highly desirable.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and manage time effectively across different time zones.
• Track record of delivering successful R&D or new product development projects.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive healthcare coverage, and an attractive stock option plan. As a leading-edge technology company, we provide unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and development, including support for attending virtual conferences and advanced training.
• The fully remote nature of this role allows for exceptional work-life integration.
• We foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Additional benefits include a generous paid time off policy and performance-based bonuses.

Join a visionary team shaping the future of materials science.