Remote Principal Mechanical Engineer - Advanced Materials

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

Benefits offered by this job

Top-tier compensation

Stock options

Fully remote position

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead the mechanical design and analysis of advanced materials projects. You will design experimental setups, develop theoretical models, and validate performance of components made from composites, alloys, and polymers in a fully remote environment.

You will guide senior engineers, collaborate with researchers globally, apply FEA/CAD tools, and contribute to IP through patents and publications while staying at the forefront of

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field.
• 10+ years of experience in mechanical design and analysis with emphasis on advanced materials.
• Extensive experience with mechanical testing techniques and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design and analysis for projects involving advanced materials (composites, ceramics, alloys).
• Develop designs for experimental setups, testing equipment, and prototypes to characterize material properties.

Skills

Mechanical design

FEA

Materials science

Leadership

Remote collaboration

Technical writing

Education

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

MS in Materials Science

Tools

ANSYS

Abaqus

SolidWorks

CATIA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneer in developing and applying advanced materials for high-performance applications, is seeking a Remote Principal Mechanical Engineer to join their innovative research and development team. This senior role is instrumental in pushing the boundaries of material science through mechanical design and engineering. We are looking for a seasoned professional who excels in a remote setting, possesses deep expertise in the mechanical behavior of novel materials, and has a proven history of leading complex R&D projects. You will be responsible for designing experimental apparatus, developing theoretical models, and validating the performance of components made from advanced composites, alloys, and polymers. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to contribute to groundbreaking advancements from anywhere.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and analysis efforts for projects involving advanced materials, including composites, ceramics, and high-performance alloys.
• Develop novel designs for experimental setups, testing equipment, and prototypes to characterize the mechanical properties of new materials under various conditions.
• Utilize advanced simulation tools (FEA, CFD) to predict material behavior and component performance under extreme loads and environments.
• Collaborate closely with material scientists, researchers, and external partners globally to integrate mechanical design with material development.
• Define material testing protocols and oversee testing procedures to ensure data integrity and validity.
• Analyze test results, interpret complex data, and prepare comprehensive technical reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to intellectual property generation through patents and technical publications.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and researchers within the team.
• Stay at the forefront of advancements in mechanical engineering, materials science, and related fields.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in mechanical design and analysis, with a significant focus on advanced materials research and development.
• Extensive experience with mechanical testing techniques and equipment.
• Proficiency in FEA software (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus) and CAD software.
• Deep understanding of material mechanics, failure analysis, and constitutive modeling.
• Proven track record of leading R&D projects and delivering innovative solutions.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional communication, collaboration, and technical writing abilities, suited for remote interaction.
• Must be legally authorized to work remotely for a South African-based company.

Benefits

• Our client offers a top-tier compensation package, including a substantial base salary, performance bonuses, and stock options.
• This is a fully remote position, providing maximum flexibility and work-life integration.
• We offer extensive opportunities for professional development, including funding for advanced training, conferences, and research collaborations.
• You will work on cutting-edge projects with a world-class team of experts.
• Contribute to significant advancements in materials technology and shape the future of multiple industries.
• This role offers substantial autonomy and the chance to make a profound impact.