Remote Principal Mechanical Engineer (Thermal Systems)

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote work

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer with a specialization in thermal systems to lead the design, analysis and optimization of advanced thermal management solutions. This fully remote role allows contribution from anywhere in South Africa while driving thermodynamics, heat transfer and fluid dynamics in next-generation products.

You will mentor engineers, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and influence long-term thermal strategy for product roadmaps.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Thermal Sciences or Heat Transfer.
• 10+ years of extensive experience in mechanical design with a focus on thermal system design/analysis.
• Proven CFD expertise and thermal modeling techniques (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+).
• Strong knowledge of heat transfer, thermodynamics and fluid dynamics.
• Experience designing/testing thermal solutions for demanding environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead thermal management system design (heat sinks, cooling loops, heat exchangers) for high-performance applications.
• Perform advanced thermal analysis using CFD and simulations to optimize designs.
• Develop and validate experimental test setups for thermal performance characterization.
• Define technical specs for thermal components and subsystems.
• Mentor junior engineers and lead technical teams.

Skills

Thermal systems design

Leadership

Remote collaboration

Thermodynamics & heat transfer

Fluid dynamics

Education

Master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering (Thermal Sciences / Heat Transfer)

Tools

ANSYS Fluent

STAR-CCM+

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in cutting-edge renewable energy technology, is actively seeking a highly experienced Principal Mechanical Engineer with specialized expertise in thermal systems. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to contribute from anywhere in South Africa while being an integral part of our innovative team. You will be instrumental in driving the design, analysis, and optimization of advanced thermal management solutions for our next-generation products. This role requires a deep understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics, coupled with a proven track record of leading complex engineering projects from concept to production. We are looking for a strategic thinker who can anticipate future challenges and develop robust, scalable solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of intricate thermal management systems, including heat sinks, cooling loops, and heat exchangers, for high-performance applications.
• Conduct advanced thermal analysis using CFD and other simulation tools to predict performance, identify potential issues, and optimize designs.
• Develop and validate experimental test setups for thermal performance characterization.
• Define technical specifications and requirements for thermal components and subsystems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical, materials, and software engineering, to ensure integrated system performance.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in thermal management technologies and industry best practices.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and innovation.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, design documentation, and presentations for stakeholders.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex thermal-related issues encountered during product development and manufacturing.
• Influence the long-term thermal strategy for product roadmaps.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Thermal Sciences or Heat Transfer.
• 10+ years of extensive experience in mechanical design, with a significant focus on thermal system design and analysis.
• Demonstrated expertise in CFD software (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+) and thermal modeling techniques.
• In-depth knowledge of heat transfer principles, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics.
• Proven experience in designing and testing thermal solutions for demanding environments.
• Experience with system-level thermal testing and validation methodologies.
• Strong leadership capabilities and the ability to mentor and technically lead teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly.
• Proven ability to work effectively in a remote, collaborative environment.

Benefits

• This fully remote position offers unparalleled flexibility.
• Our client provides a highly competitive salary, commensurate with experience and expertise, along with performance-based incentives and a comprehensive benefits package.
• We invest in our employees' growth through continuous learning opportunities, access to cutting-edge research, and support for professional development.
• As a key member of our team, you will have the opportunity to shape the future of renewable energy technology from the comfort of your home, working with a globally distributed and talented group of engineers.
• This is an exceptional chance to make a significant impact in the **George, Western Cape, ZA** region and beyond.