Remote Lead Mechanical Engineer - Aerospace Components

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Remote Lead Mechanical Engineer to spearhead the design of advanced aerospace systems from a remote setting. You will guide a distributed team, oversee 3D models, 2D drawings, and rigorous analyses to ensure flight-critical safety and reliability.

The role demands a master's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering, 10+ years in aerospace design, and strong leadership with proficiency in CATIA V5, NX, ANSYS, and NASTRAN.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering from an accredited institution.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in mechanical design within aerospace.
• Proven experience in leadership or lead engineer roles managing complex projects and teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, analysis, and verification of complex aerospace mechanical systems and components.
• Provide technical direction and mentorship to a remote engineering team.
• Oversee 3D modeling, 2D drawings, and documentation using CAD/CAE tools.
• Conduct structural, thermal, vibration, and fatigue analyses to meet aerospace specs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams in a virtual environment.
• Define technical requirements, specs, and test plans for aerospace components.
• Ensure compliance with AS9100, FAA standards, and internal policies.
• Manage project schedules, resources, and deliverables for mechanical design tasks.
• Drive innovation through new materials and design methodologies.
• Lead design reviews and present findings to senior management and external stakeholders.

Skills

Lead Engineer

Aerospace Design

Team Leadership

Remote Collaboration

CAD/CAE Leadership

Education

Master's in Mechanical/Aerospace Eng

Tools

CATIA V5

Siemens NX

ANSYS

NASTRAN

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering firm in the aerospace sector known for its innovative component design, is seeking a highly experienced Remote Lead Mechanical Engineer to spearhead their design initiatives. This position is fully remote, enabling top-tier talent to contribute from anywhere while working on mission-critical aerospace projects. The Lead Mechanical Engineer will guide the development of advanced mechanical systems and components, ensuring adherence to the stringent standards of the aerospace industry. This role demands exceptional technical leadership, a deep understanding of aerospace mechanics, and the ability to foster collaboration within a distributed engineering team. If you are passionate about aerospace engineering and excel in an autonomous, remote work environment, this is an unparalleled opportunity. The core focus will be on innovation, design excellence, and ensuring the highest levels of safety and reliability for flight-critical systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, analysis, and verification of complex mechanical systems and components for aerospace applications.
• Provide technical direction and mentorship to a team of mechanical engineers working remotely.
• Oversee the development of detailed 3D models, 2D manufacturing drawings, and comprehensive documentation using industry-standard CAD/CAE tools.
• Conduct advanced analyses, including structural, thermal, vibration, and fatigue analysis, to ensure designs meet rigorous aerospace requirements.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including systems engineering, materials science, manufacturing, and quality assurance, in a virtual environment.
• Define technical requirements, specifications, and test plans for new aerospace components.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant aerospace standards (e.g., AS9100, FAA regulations) and internal company policies.
• Manage project schedules, resources, and deliverables for mechanical design tasks.
• Drive innovation by exploring and implementing new materials, technologies, and design methodologies relevant to aerospace.
• Lead design reviews and present technical findings to senior management and external stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mechanical design and engineering, with a significant portion within the aerospace industry.
• Proven experience in a leadership or lead engineer role, managing complex projects and teams.
• Expert proficiency in advanced CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5, Siemens NX) and CAE/FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN).
• In-depth knowledge of aerospace materials, manufacturing processes, and design-for-manufacturability (DFM).
• Strong understanding of aerospace regulations, standards, and certification processes.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills, particularly for remote team dynamics.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects, lead technical discussions, and make sound engineering decisions autonomously.
• Must be eligible to work remotely and legally in South Africa.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers unparalleled flexibility and the opportunity to work on some of the most exciting projects in the aerospace industry. Our client provides a top-tier compensation package, including a highly competitive salary, performance bonuses, comprehensive medical and dental coverage, and robust retirement planning options. Employees benefit from extensive opportunities for professional development, including advanced training, certifications, and participation in leading industry conferences (virtually). The company culture emphasizes innovation, continuous learning, and employee well-being. This role allows for significant impact and career advancement within a dynamic and forward-thinking organization, all managed from a remote setting.