Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Aerospace

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Annual leave

Training & conferences

Performance-based bonuses

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for a Midrand, South Africa role focused on aerospace systems. You will lead the design, analysis, and documentation from concept through production, coordinating with systems engineers, manufacturing, and project management.

A strong track record in aerospace design and mentoring junior engineers is required. The position offers a challenging, collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth, exposure to

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 8 years in mechanical design with aerospace focus.
• Proficient in 3D CAD and FEA tools (CATIA, SolidWorks, Inventor; ANSYS, NASTRAN).
• Experience leading design projects and mentoring junior engineers.
• Familiarity with DO-160, MIL-STD aerospace standards.
• Eligibility to work in South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and systems for aerospace applications.
• Perform stress, thermal, and vibration analyses using simulations.
• Create 3D CAD models and 2D manufacturing drawings.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and procurement for producibility.
• Lead design reviews and mentor junior engineers.
• Troubleshoot design issues during prototyping and production.
• Document analyses and test results.
• Stay updated on industry best practices.

Skills

Mechanical design

FEA analysis

Mentoring juniors

Cross-functional collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA

SolidWorks

Inventor

ANSYS

NASTRAN

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in aerospace technology, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their dynamic team. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge projects that are shaping the future of flight. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in the design, development, and testing of complex mechanical systems for aircraft and spacecraft. This position is based in the vibrant industrial hub of Midrand, Gauteng , offering a blend of challenging work and a collaborative environment. We are looking for a proactive individual with a passion for engineering excellence and a proven track record in delivering high-quality solutions. The role involves working closely with cross-functional teams, including systems engineers, manufacturing specialists, and project managers, to ensure successful product realization from concept to completion. The company fosters a culture of continuous learning and professional growth, providing ample opportunities for skill development and career advancement within the organization. If you are a driven engineer looking to make a significant impact in the aerospace sector, this role is for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and systems for aerospace applications, adhering to stringent industry standards and safety regulations.
• Conduct detailed analysis, including stress, thermal, and vibration analysis, using advanced simulation tools to validate designs.
• Create detailed 3D CAD models and 2D manufacturing drawings for prototypes and production.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and procurement teams to ensure designs are producible, cost-effective, and meet quality specifications.
• Lead design reviews and provide technical guidance to junior engineers.
• Troubleshoot and resolve design-related issues during prototype development and production phases.
• Document all design work, analyses, and testing results comprehensively.
• Stay abreast of the latest technological advancements and industry best practices in mechanical design.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in mechanical design, with a significant focus on the aerospace industry.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks, Inventor) and FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN).
• Strong understanding of material science, manufacturing processes, and mechanical system integration.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Proven experience in leading design projects and mentoring junior engineers.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with diverse teams.
• Familiarity with DO-160, MIL-STD, and other relevant aerospace standards.
• Eligibility to work in South Africa is required.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Employees enjoy comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits, contributing to their long-term financial security and well-being.
• A generous annual leave allowance ensures a healthy work-life balance.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development, including specialized training and conference attendance, are provided.
• The company also offers performance-based bonuses and a dynamic, innovative work environment that values creativity and collaboration.
• Relocation assistance may be available for highly qualified candidates outside the immediate Midrand area.
• Join a team where your contributions are recognized and where you can build a rewarding career.