Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Aerospace

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Annual bonus structure

Health, dental & vision insurance

Company-sponsored retirement fund &  l

Generous paid time off

Professional development & training

Access to aerospace technology & labs

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 in Paarl, Western Cape, is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to lead the aerospace design of components and systems from concept to detailed design. You will develop 3D CAD models, drawings, BOMs, and perform advanced FEA analyses to ensure producibility and compliance with aerospace standards.

The role requires deep knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, and assembly techniques, with leadership to mentor junior engineers and collaborate across cross-functional

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• 7+ years of mechanical design experience, with at least 5 years in aerospace.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (CATIA, SolidWorks, NX) and PDM/PLM systems.
• Strong experience with FEA software (ANSYS, NASTRAN) for structural, thermal, and vibration analysis.
• Deep knowledge of aerospace materials, manufacturing processes, and assembly techniques.
• Familiarity with aerospace standards, regulations, and certification requirements.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork in cross-functional teams.
• Ability to work on-site full-time in Paarl, Western Cape, ZA.
• Eligibility for security clearance may be required.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design of aerospace components and systems from concept to detailed design.
• Develop and maintain 3D CAD models, 2D drawings and BOMs using industry-standard software.
• Perform advanced engineering analysis including stress, thermal, vibration, and fatigue using FEA tools.
• Collaborate with manufacturing to ensure producibility, cost-effectiveness, and quality standards.
• Develop test plans for prototypes and production hardware, analyze results and implement improvements.
• Conduct design reviews internally and with clients and regulatory bodies.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior design engineers.
• Ensure designs comply with aerospace standards (AMS, MIL-STD) and customer specs.
• Manage project timelines and deliverables for design tasks.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of design processes.

Skills

Problem-solving

Analytical thinking

Teamwork

Pressure handling

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

CATIA

SolidWorks

NX

ANSYS

NASTRAN

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the aerospace industry, is actively seeking a highly experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their esteemed team in Paarl, Western Cape, ZA. This is a critical, on-site position where you will be instrumental in the design, development, and integration of complex mechanical systems for cutting-edge aerospace applications. You will leverage your deep understanding of mechanical principles, materials, and manufacturing processes to create robust and reliable designs. The role requires close collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of engineers, technicians, and program managers throughout the product lifecycle, from concept generation to final production and testing. We are looking for a candidate with a proven track record in aerospace design, exceptional problem-solving abilities, and a passion for innovation in a demanding environment. This position offers the opportunity to work on projects that push the boundaries of technology and contribute significantly to the advancement of aviation and space exploration. Our client is committed to fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment where talent is recognized and rewarded. You will have access to advanced design tools, rigorous testing facilities, and opportunities for continuous professional development. The role is based at our state-of-the-art facility in Paarl, Western Cape, ZA, requiring your full-time presence for optimal team integration and project execution.

Key Responsibilities

• - Lead the mechanical design of aerospace components, sub-systems, and systems from conceptualization to detailed design.


• - Develop and maintain 3D CAD models, 2D engineering drawings, and Bill of Materials (BOMs) using industry-standard software.


• - Perform advanced engineering analysis, including stress, strain, thermal, vibration, and fatigue analysis using FEA tools.


• - Collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure designs are producible, cost-effective, and meet quality standards.


• - Specify materials, tolerances, and surface finishes for critical aerospace components.


• - Develop and execute test plans for prototypes and production hardware, analyzing results and implementing design improvements.


• - Conduct design reviews, both internally and externally with clients and regulatory bodies.


• - Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior design engineers.


• - Ensure designs comply with stringent aerospace standards (e.g., AMS, MIL-STD) and customer specifications.


• - Troubleshoot and resolve design-related issues encountered during manufacturing, assembly, and testing.


• - Manage project timelines and deliverables for assigned design tasks.


• - Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and methodologies within the engineering department.

Requirements

• - Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering.


• - Minimum of 7 years of experience in mechanical design, with at least 5 years focused on the aerospace sector.


• - Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks, NX) and PDM/PLM systems.


• - Strong experience with FEA software (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN) for structural, thermal, and vibration analysis.


• - Deep understanding of aerospace materials, manufacturing processes (e.g., machining, casting, composite layup), and assembly techniques.


• - Knowledge of aerospace industry standards, regulations, and certification requirements.


• - Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.


• - Strong communication and teamwork abilities, with experience working in cross-functional teams.


• - Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet demanding project deadlines.


• - Experience with configuration management and design for manufacturability (DFM).


• - Eligibility for security clearance may be required.


• - Must be willing to work full-time on-site in Paarl, Western Cape, ZA.

Benefits

• - Competitive salary package and annual bonus structure.


• - Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.


• - Company-sponsored retirement fund and life insurance.


• - Generous paid time off and leave policies.


• - Opportunities for professional development, including advanced training and certifications.


• - Access to cutting-edge aerospace technology and facilities.


• - A stimulating work environment with challenging and rewarding projects.


• - Relocation assistance may be provided for qualified candidates.