Robotics Mechanical Design Engineer

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 780,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Professional development opportunities

Collaborative engineering team

Competitive salary

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Robotics Mechanical Design Engineer to design robust robotic hardware and sub-systems. You will develop mechanical components, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings while collaborating with electrical and software teams to ensure seamless integration.

Hybrid work enables hands-on testing and remote collaboration. The role requires 3+ years in robotic/mechanical design, strong CAD skills (SolidWorks, Inventor, Fusion 360), and experience with simulation tools for kinematics

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechatronics.
• 3+ years of mechanical design experience with a robotics focus.
• Proficient in 3D CAD tools (SolidWorks, Inventor, Fusion 360).
• Experience with simulation tools for kinematic, dynamic and stress analyses.
• Understanding of motors, encoders, gears and robotic actuators.
• Familiarity with materials used in robotics (metals, plastics, composites).
• Ability to work in a hybrid environment balancing remote and in-office tasks.

Responsibilities

• Design mechanical components, sub-assemblies, and full robotic systems using CAD.
• Create detailed drawings, BOMs, and specs for manufacturing.
• Perform kinematic and dynamic analyses of robotic arms and end-effectors.
• Conduct stress, fatigue, and vibration analyses for durability.
• Collaborate with electrical/software teams to integrate designs with controls.
• Select motors, actuators, bearings, and related components.
• Develop and run test plans for robotic mechanisms and systems.
• Troubleshoot design issues during prototyping and production.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of robotic designs and processes.

Skills

Robotics design

3D CAD

Kinematic analysis

Dynamic analysis

Materials knowledge

Hybrid work

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical or Mechatronics

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

Fusion 360

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in industrial automation and robotics, is seeking a talented Robotics Mechanical Design Engineer. This role offers a hybrid work model, allowing for flexibility between remote collaboration and essential in-office work for hands-on development and testing. You will be at the forefront of designing and developing the mechanical systems for cutting-edge robotic platforms. This position, supporting operations near **Polokwane, Limpopo**, is ideal for engineers passionate about automation, mechatronics, and the intricate mechanics of robotic systems. You will work within a dynamic team environment, contributing to projects that push the boundaries of what robots can achieve in manufacturing and logistics. The focus will be on creating robust, efficient, and reliable robotic hardware.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components, sub-assemblies, and full robotic systems using advanced CAD software.
• Create detailed engineering drawings, BOMs, and specifications for manufacturing.
• Conduct kinematic and dynamic analysis of robotic arms and end-effectors.
• Perform stress, fatigue, and vibration analysis to ensure structural integrity and durability.
• Collaborate with electrical and software engineers to integrate mechanical designs with control systems and sensors.
• Specify and select motors, actuators, bearings, and other robotic components.
• Develop and execute test plans for validating robotic mechanisms and systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical design issues during prototyping and production.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of robotic designs and manufacturing processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechatronics Engineering.
• 3+ years of experience in mechanical design, with a strong emphasis on robotics or automated machinery.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, Fusion 360).
• Experience with simulation tools for kinematic, dynamic, and stress analysis.
• Understanding of robotic components such as motors, servos, encoders, and gearboxes.
• Familiarity with materials commonly used in robotics (metals, plastics, composites).
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment, balancing remote and in-office tasks.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and contract rate.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility.
• Opportunity to work on innovative robotic technologies.
• Exposure to diverse automation and manufacturing challenges.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Collaborative team environment with experienced engineers.
• Contribution to shaping the future of industrial automation.