Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Industrial Machinery (Remote)

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for a fully remote role in South Africa. You will design, analyze, and optimize industrial machinery and automated systems, advancing manufacturing efficiency for diverse clients.

You will perform FEA/thermal analyses, create detailed drawings and BOMs, and collaborate with electrical, software and fabrication teams. Remote collaboration, strong problem-solving, and self-management are essential; ECSA registration is preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering from a recognized institution.
• Minimum 7 years of professional experience in mechanical design for industrial machinery, automation, or electromechanical systems.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SOLIDWORKS, Inventor, CATIA) and FEA tools (ANSYS, ABAQUS).
• In-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials science, and mechanisms design.
• Experience with robotics, automated assembly lines, or material handling systems is advantageous.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills; remote-work readiness; ECSA registration preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize mechanical components, sub-assemblies, and complete systems for industrial machinery.
• Perform stress, thermal, vibration, and fatigue analyses using FEA to ensure design integrity.
• Create manufacturing drawings, BOMs, and technical documentation per industry standards.
• Collaborate with electrical engineers, software developers, and manufacturing teams to integrate mechanical designs.
• Develop and execute testing procedures for prototypes and production units; implement design modifications.
• Mentor junior engineers and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Skills

Mechanical design experience

3D CAD tools

FEA simulation

Electromechanical systems

Remote collaboration

ECSA registration eligibility

Education

Bachelor's/Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SOLIDWORKS

Inventor

CATIA

ANSYS

ABAQUS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneer in automated industrial solutions, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for a fully remote position. This role is critical for the design and development of robust, high-performance industrial machinery and automated systems. You will be at the forefront of innovation, contributing to projects that enhance manufacturing efficiency and productivity for clients across various sectors. This is an ideal opportunity for an experienced engineer looking to apply their expertise in a flexible, remote-first environment. You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of experts, driving projects from conceptualization through to successful implementation. We are looking for a proactive problem-solver with a passion for creating intricate mechanical designs that meet stringent performance and safety standards. Join our client's esteemed team and play a key role in shaping the future of industrial automation.

Key Responsibilities

Design, develop, and optimize mechanical components, sub-assemblies, and complete systems for industrial machinery using advanced CAD software. Perform detailed engineering analyses, including stress, thermal, vibration, and fatigue analysis, utilizing FEA tools to ensure design integrity and longevity. Create comprehensive manufacturing drawings, BOMs (Bills of Materials), and technical documentation in accordance with industry best practices and client specifications. Collaborate closely with electrical engineers, software developers, and manufacturing teams to integrate mechanical designs into complete automated solutions. Develop and execute testing procedures for prototypes and production units, analyzing results, and implementing necessary design modifications. Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical issues that arise during design, manufacturing, or field deployment. Stay updated on the latest advancements in mechanical engineering, materials, and industrial automation technologies. Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers within the design team. Ensure designs comply with relevant safety regulations, industry standards, and environmental requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering from a recognized institution. A minimum of 7 years of professional experience in mechanical design, with a significant focus on industrial machinery, automation, or complex electromechanical systems. Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SOLIDWORKS, Inventor, CATIA) and strong capabilities in FEA simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, ABAQUS). In-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials science, and mechanisms design. Proven ability to manage design projects from concept to production, demonstrating strong problem-solving and analytical skills. Experience with robotics, automated assembly lines, or material handling systems is a significant advantage. Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a fully remote team environment. Self-motivated, proactive, and able to manage time efficiently to meet project deadlines. ECSA registration or eligibility for registration is preferred.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary package, reflecting the candidate's expertise and experience. As a fully remote position, you will enjoy the flexibility to work from your preferred location in South Africa, promoting an excellent work-life balance. Our client is committed to employee growth, providing access to continuous learning opportunities, professional development programs, and advanced training. Comprehensive medical aid, a retirement fund, and performance-based incentives are included. You will be part of an innovative and supportive team, working on challenging and impactful projects that are shaping the future of industrial automation. Join a company that values technical excellence and fosters a collaborative remote culture.