Remote Lead Mechanical Engineer - Advanced Prototyping

Placements24; South Africa; Remote; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first

Home office stipend

Professional development budget

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Lead Mechanical Engineer for a global robotics leader. You will oversee design, development, and rapid prototyping of advanced robotic systems while managing a remote team across SA.

This role emphasizes strong CAD and simulation skills, project leadership, and collaboration with software and electrical teams; remote-first culture with flexible work-from-anywhere in South Africa; competitive package.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering.
• 10+ years of mechanical design and robotics experience.
• Experience leading remote engineering teams.
• Expert CAD and simulation proficiency.
• Knowledge of prototyping methods (SLA, SLS, FDM, CNC).
• Strong control systems, actuators and sensors knowledge.
• Excellent remote communication and stakeholder management.
• Experience with Agile development is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design for robotic platforms, ensuring performance and reliability.
• Mentor and manage a remote team of engineers.
• Oversee rapid prototyping: SLA/SLS/FDM printing and CNC machining.
• Develop project plans, timelines, and budgets.
• Conduct design reviews, simulations, and testing.
• Collaborate with software, electrical, and systems teams.
• Drive design process improvements and manufacturing quality.
• Stay ahead of robotics and automation trends.
• Produce technical documentation and presentations.

Skills

Leadership

Remote team management

CAD: SolidWorks

CAD: Inventor

CAD: Onshape

FEA/CFD simulations

Prototyping methods

Control systems

Materials science

Agile

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

Onshape

ANSYS

3D printing

CNC machining

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in advanced robotics and automation, is actively seeking a highly experienced and motivated Remote Lead Mechanical Engineer. This position is crucial for overseeing the design, development, and rapid prototyping of cutting‑edge robotic systems and components. The role is fully remote, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere within South Africa. You will be responsible for leading a talented team of engineers, driving innovation, and ensuring the successful execution of complex projects from concept to deployment. The ideal candidate will possess a strong blend of technical expertise, leadership acumen, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of mechanical engineering. This is a unique opportunity to work with state‑of‑the‑art technology and make a significant impact in a rapidly evolving industry, all while enjoying the benefits of a remote‑first work environment. We are looking for a strategic thinker who can inspire and guide their team effectively from afar.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of mechanical systems for advanced robotic platforms, ensuring performance, reliability, and scalability.
• Manage and mentor a remote team of mechanical engineers, fostering a collaborative and productive environment.
• Oversee the rapid prototyping process, including material selection, 3D printing, CNC machining, and assembly.
• Develop and execute comprehensive project plans, timelines, and budgets for mechanical engineering initiatives.
• Conduct rigorous design reviews, simulations (FEA, CFD), and performance testing to validate system integrity.
• Collaborate effectively with remote software, electrical, and systems engineering teams to ensure seamless integration.
• Drive continuous improvement in design processes, manufacturing techniques, and product quality.
• Stay at the forefront of emerging technologies in robotics, automation, and advanced manufacturing.
• Prepare detailed technical documentation, reports, and presentations for stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in mechanical design and development, with a significant focus on robotics, mechatronics, or complex electromechanical systems.
• Proven experience in leading and managing engineering teams, preferably in a remote setting.
• Expert proficiency in advanced CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, Onshape) and simulation tools.
• In-depth knowledge of various prototyping methods, including SLA, SLS, FDM 3D printing, and CNC machining.
• Strong understanding of control systems, actuators, sensors, and material science.
• Exceptional problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making capabilities.
• Excellent remote communication, collaboration, and stakeholder management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects from conception through to successful deployment.
• Experience with Agile development methodologies is a plus.

Benefits

• This fully remote position offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical insurance, life insurance, and generous performance bonuses.
• Employees benefit from a flexible work schedule, allowing for optimal work-life integration.
• Our client provides a substantial budget for professional development, including access to online courses, conferences, and relevant certifications.
• You will have the opportunity to work with groundbreaking technology and contribute to projects that are shaping the future of automation.
• We foster a culture of innovation, continuous learning, and mutual respect.
• Additional benefits include home office stipends, potential for stock options, and regular virtual team-building activities.
• The freedom of a remote-first role based out of Tembisa, Gauteng allows you to work from a location that best suits your needs while contributing to a world‑class organization.