Senior Automation Mechanical Engineer

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Life cover

Retirement planning

Advanced training

Centurion facility

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automation Mechanical Engineer for our Centurion, Gauteng facility. You will design and implement automated systems, broaden mechanical capabilities, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver robust machinery.

The role involves leading mechanical design, selecting components, and ensuring safety and reliability across diverse projects within the automation field.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• 5+ years in mechanical design with emphasis on automation or robotics.
• Proficient in CAD software (SolidWorks, Inventor) and FEA tools.
• Strong knowledge of kinematics, dynamics, and materials science.
• Experience with PLCs, servos, pneumatics in industrial automation.
• Knowledge of machine safety standards and risk assessment.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design mechanical elements of automated systems and robotic cells.
• Create 3D CAD models, 2D drawings, and Bills of Materials.
• Perform stress and kinematic analyses to verify designs.
• Select motors, gears, actuators, bearings, and sensors.
• Collaborate with electrical, controls, and software teams.
• Oversee fabrication, assembly, and testing of prototypes.
• Develop technical specs, manuals, and maintenance procedures.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues during integration and operation.
• Stay informed on automation, robotics, and new technologies.
• Ensure designs meet safety standards and regulations.

Skills

CAD

SolidWorks

Inventor

FEA

Kinematics

Dynamics

Materials science

Pneumatics

Servos

PLCs

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

FEA tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in industrial automation solutions, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Automation Mechanical Engineer to join their growing team in Centurion, Gauteng . This role is crucial for the design, development, and implementation of innovative automated systems and machinery that drive efficiency and productivity for our clients. You will be responsible for conceptualizing mechanical designs, selecting appropriate components, and ensuring the robust performance of automated equipment. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mechanical engineering with a specialization in automation, robotics, or mechatronics. This position offers a challenging yet rewarding career path, allowing you to work on diverse projects and contribute to the technological advancement of various industries. We are committed to fostering an environment of continuous learning and innovation, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and skill enhancement within the dynamic Gauteng technological landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical aspects of automated systems, including robotic cells, conveyor systems, and custom machinery.
• Create detailed 3D CAD models, 2D drawings, and Bills of Materials using industry-standard software.
• Perform engineering calculations and simulations (e.g., stress analysis, kinematic analysis) to ensure design integrity and performance.
• Select appropriate mechanical components such as motors, gears, actuators, bearings, and sensors.
• Collaborate closely with electrical engineers, controls engineers, and software developers to integrate mechanical designs with control systems.
• Oversee the fabrication, assembly, and testing of automated equipment prototypes and final products.
• Develop and document technical specifications, operational manuals, and maintenance procedures.
• Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical issues during system integration, commissioning, and operation.
• Stay current with emerging technologies in automation, robotics, and mechanical design.
• Ensure designs comply with safety standards and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in mechanical design, with a significant focus on automation or robotics.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor) and experience with FEA tools.
• Strong understanding of mechanical principles, including kinematics, dynamics, and materials science.
• Experience with industrial automation components and systems (PLCs, servos, pneumatics).
• Knowledge of machine safety standards and risk assessment.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective teamwork and client interaction.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
• Experience in developing technical documentation.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based incentives, and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, life cover, and retirement planning support.
• This role provides significant opportunities for professional development, including advanced training and exposure to cutting-edge automation technologies.
• The position is based in our modern facility in Centurion, Gauteng , a hub of technological innovation.
• We foster a collaborative work environment that values creativity and encourages career progression within the company.