Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Advanced Manufacturing (Remote)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first work

Performance bonuses

Health and retirement benefits

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to lead the development of highly automated machinery and integrated manufacturing systems. This remote-first role allows you to work from anywhere in South Africa, with emphasis on autonomous project delivery and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

You will design, validate and optimize complex mechanical solutions, perform FEA and CAD analyses, and drive innovations that improve efficiency, reliability and manufacturability across

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• Minimum 8 years in mechanical design with automated machinery.
• Expert in 3D CAD modeling and FEA/simulation.
• Strong knowledge of automation, robotics and control systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of sophisticated automated machinery.
• Create detailed CAD designs, assemblies and BOMs.
• Perform FEA, thermal and motion analyses to optimize performance.
• Collaborate with electrical/software/process engineers in virtual teams.
• Oversee prototyping, testing and validation phases.
• Develop technical documentation and project reports.

Skills

CAD modelling

FEA/simulation

Automation

Robotics

Mechatronics

Leadership

Remote collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

CATIA

ANSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneer in advanced manufacturing solutions, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their cutting-edge development team on a fully remote basis. This role is pivotal in designing and developing highly complex, automated machinery and production systems for next-generation manufacturing processes. You will be instrumental in conceptualizing, designing, and validating robust mechanical solutions that drive efficiency, precision, and innovation in manufacturing. The ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in mechanical design, automation, CAD/CAE, and a proven ability to deliver complex projects from inception to completion. This position offers the unique advantage of working from anywhere in South Africa , contributing to groundbreaking industrial advancements. Strong self-management, excellent communication, and a passion for automation are essential for success in this remote-first opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of highly sophisticated automated machinery and integrated manufacturing systems.
• Utilize advanced 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, CATIA) to create detailed designs, assemblies, and tolerance analyses.
• Perform advanced stress, thermal, and motion analysis using FEA and other simulation tools to optimize designs for performance, reliability, and manufacturability.
• Specify and integrate various mechanical components, including motion control systems, robotics, actuators, and sensors.
• Collaborate closely with electrical engineers, software developers, and process engineers in a virtual team environment to achieve integrated system solutions.
• Oversee prototyping, system integration, testing, and validation phases, ensuring designs meet stringent performance criteria.
• Develop comprehensive technical documentation, including detailed drawings, BOMs, FMEAs, and user manuals.
• Drive innovation by researching and implementing new mechanical design concepts, materials, and manufacturing techniques.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant safety standards and industry best practices in advanced manufacturing.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in mechanical design engineering, with a strong focus on automated machinery and complex systems.
• Expert proficiency in advanced 3D CAD modeling and extensive experience with FEA/simulation software.
• Deep understanding of automation principles, robotics, mechatronics, and control systems.
• Proven experience in managing complex design projects from concept to production.
• Excellent problem-solving capabilities, analytical thinking, and a keen eye for detail.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with proven ability to collaborate effectively in a remote setting.
• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously and manage projects proactively in a remote-first environment.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including a significant salary, performance bonuses, and comprehensive health and retirement benefits designed for remote employees. We are dedicated to continuous professional development, offering access to cutting-edge training, workshops, and industry conferences. This role is a fully remote position, providing exceptional flexibility and work-life balance. You can work from any location within South Africa . Join a team that is shaping the future of manufacturing and pushing the boundaries of technological innovation.