Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Industrial Machinery

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental coverage

Paid leave

Professional development

Hybrid work

Retirement plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for its Johannesburg, Gauteng team. The role focuses on conceiving, designing, and developing complex mechanical systems for cutting-edge industrial machinery.

You will drive product development from ideation to production, ensuring performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. You will leverage CAD tools (SolidWorks, CATIA, Inventor) and engineering simulations (FEA, CFD) while collaborating with electrical and software teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelors or Masters degree in mechanical engineering or related field.
• Strong background in mechanical design and product development.
• Experience with CAD tools and simulation methods.
• Experience in industrial machinery is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design process for new industrial machinery from concept to prototyping.
• Model, draft, and assemble complex components using CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA).
• Perform FEA and CFD to validate designs and optimize performance.
• Collaborate with electrical, software and manufacturing teams for integration.
• Develop technical documentation and BOMs; support design reviews and changes.
• Mentor junior engineers and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Mechanical design

FEA

CFD analysis

Cross-functional

Leadership

Education

Bachelors/Masters in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

Inventor

PLM systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in industrial automation solutions, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their dynamic team in Johannesburg, Gauteng . This pivotal role will involve conceptualizing, designing, and developing complex mechanical systems and components for a range of cutting-edge machinery. You will be instrumental in driving product development from initial ideation through to final production, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical foundation in mechanical engineering principles coupled with extensive practical experience in CAD software and simulation tools. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a forward-thinking company and make a significant impact on the future of industrial technology. The hybrid work model offers a blend of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility, fostering a balanced and productive work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design process for new industrial machinery, from concept development to detailed design and prototyping.
• Utilize advanced CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) for 3D modeling, drafting, and assembly of intricate mechanical components and systems.
• Perform rigorous engineering analysis, including Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), to validate designs and optimize performance.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers, software developers, and manufacturing specialists, to ensure seamless integration of mechanical systems.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including design specifications, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and manufacturing drawings.
• Conduct design reviews, identify potential issues, and implement effective solutions to ensure product quality and adherence to specifications.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting during the manufacturing and testing phases of new product introductions.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in mechanical engineering technologies and industry best practices.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in mechanical design and development, preferably within the industrial machinery sector.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, CATIA) and PDM/PLM systems.
• Strong understanding of mechanical principles, including statics, dynamics, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics.
• Experience with engineering simulation software (FEA, CFD) is highly desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with a keen attention to detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with diverse teams.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes such as machining, fabrication, and injection molding.
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulations relevant to industrial machinery.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and public holiday allowance.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and career advancement.
• Exposure to innovative technologies and challenging projects in the industrial automation field.
• Collaborative and supportive work environment in Johannesburg, Gauteng .
• Hybrid work arrangement promoting work-life balance.
• Retirement savings plan with company contributions.