Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Aerospace

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Advanced training & certifications

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer with aerospace expertise in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, to lead design efforts on complex aerospace systems. You will mentor engineers, perform advanced CAD modeling, and ensure regulatory compliance across projects.

The role requires 7–10 years in mechanical design for aerospace, proficiency in CATIA V5/SolidWorks, and experience with FEA/CFD tools. A hybrid work arrangement and opportunities for certifications are offered.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• 7–10 years of progressive mechanical design experience in aerospace.
• Proficiency in CATIA V5 and SolidWorks; FEA/CFD tools such as ANSYS or MSC Nastran.
• Deep knowledge of aerospace materials (composites, high-strength alloys).
• Familiarity with aerospace design principles, manufacturing processes, and regulatory frameworks.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent leadership and cross-functional communication skills.
• Experience with DFMEA and PFMEA is highly desirable.
• Ability to work in a hybrid work model.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of mechanical systems for aerospace using CAD.
• Perform structural, thermal, and vibration analysis with FEA/CFD.
• Create 3D models, 2D drawings, BOMs and tolerances documents.
• Collaborate with manufacturing to optimize producibility and costs.
• Oversee prototype fabrication, assembly, testing, and validation.
• Ensure designs meet FAA/EASA regulations and performance specs.
• Mentor junior engineers and lead design reviews.
• Contribute to project planning and risk assessment.
• Stay current with aerospace tech and industry best practices.

Skills

Mechanical design

Aerospace systems

CATIA V5

SolidWorks

FEA/CFD

Regulatory standards

Leadership

Project mentoring

DFMEA/P-FMEA

Hybrid work

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering

Tools

ANSYS

MSC Nastran

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer with a specialization in aerospace applications to join their innovative team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This role demands a high level of technical expertise in designing, developing, and integrating complex mechanical systems for aircraft and related technologies. You will lead design efforts, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to bring cutting-edge aerospace solutions to fruition. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of aerospace materials, manufacturing processes, and stringent regulatory requirements. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to advanced aerospace projects in a dynamic and collaborative environment. The Stellenbosch location offers a rich academic and technological ecosystem, ideal for an ambitious engineer.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of mechanical systems and components for aerospace applications using advanced CAD software.
• Perform detailed structural, thermal, and vibration analysis using FEA/CFD tools to ensure design integrity and compliance with aerospace standards.
• Create comprehensive engineering documentation, including 3D models, 2D drawings, tolerance analyses, and Bill of Materials (BOMs).
• Collaborate with manufacturing teams to optimize designs for producibility and cost-effectiveness in aerospace manufacturing environments.
• Oversee prototype fabrication, assembly, testing, and validation processes, troubleshooting any issues that arise.
• Ensure all designs meet stringent aerospace regulations, safety standards (e.g., FAA, EASA requirements), and performance specifications.
• Mentor and guide junior mechanical engineers, fostering technical growth and design excellence.
• Conduct thorough design reviews and contribute to project planning and risk assessment.
• Stay abreast of the latest technological advancements and industry best practices in aerospace engineering.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering.
• 7-10 years of progressive experience in mechanical design, with a strong focus on aerospace systems.
• Extensive proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5, SolidWorks) and FEA/CFD tools (e.g., ANSYS, MSC Nastran).
• Deep understanding of aerospace materials (e.g., composites, high-strength alloys), their properties, and applications.
• Familiarity with aerospace design principles, manufacturing processes, and regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to effectively lead design teams and collaborate across disciplines.
• Experience with DFMEA and P-FMEA is highly desirable.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work model.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including comprehensive health coverage, retirement plans, and opportunities for advanced training and professional certifications.
• Employees benefit from working on state-of-the-art aerospace projects, contributing to groundbreaking technological advancements.
• This role provides a hybrid work arrangement, blending collaboration with flexibility.
• Located in the vibrant hub of Stellenbosch, Western Cape , our facility provides an inspiring environment for innovation and career growth.
• Join a company that values technical expertise and offers a clear path for career advancement in the aerospace industry.