Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Robotics & Automation

Placements24; Gauteng; Remote; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Fully remote

Health coverage

Paid time off

Professional growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join a fully remote team focused on next‑gen robotics hardware and automation systems. You will own end‑to‑end mechanical design, from concept to prototyping, in a flexible remote environment that supports collaboration across distributed teams.

The role requires a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and 7+ years of experience in robotics or complex electromechanical systems, with strong CAD and simulation skills.

Qualifications

• Master's degree required in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years in mechanical design, preferably for robotics or automation.
• Proficiency with 3D CAD and simulation tools (FEA/CFD).

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of robotic components, manipulators, and automation systems.
• Translate requirements into detailed designs, specs, drawings using CAD tools (SolidWorks/Onshape).
• Perform mechanical simulations (stress, thermal, dynamic) to optimize performance.
• Oversee fabrication, assembly, testing of prototypes and troubleshoot issues.
• Collaborate with EEs, software, and systems engineers in a remote setting for integration.
• Contribute to material selection, manufacturing processes, and cost optimization.
• Document designs with BOMs, assembly instructions, and rationale for remote access.
• Provide technical mentorship to junior engineers.

Skills

Robotics & automation expertise

3D CAD proficiency

Remote collaboration

Project management

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Onshape

FEA

CFD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneer in robotic systems and industrial automation solutions, is seeking an exceptional Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their fully remote team. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of next-generation robotic hardware and automated machinery from the comfort of your home office. You will be responsible for the end-to-end mechanical design, from concept generation and detailed engineering to prototyping and testing, with a strong emphasis on innovation and performance. This role requires a proactive, self-driven individual who can collaborate effectively within a distributed engineering environment. The position is remote-first, designed to attract top talent regardless of geographical location, offering unparalleled flexibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of advanced robotic components, manipulators, and automation systems.
• Translate complex system requirements into detailed mechanical designs, specifications, and manufacturing drawings using advanced CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Onshape).
• Perform rigorous mechanical simulations and analyses, including stress, thermal, and dynamic analyses, to optimize design performance and reliability.
• Oversee the fabrication, assembly, and testing of prototypes, troubleshooting and resolving design-related issues.
• Collaborate closely with electrical engineers, software developers, and systems engineers in a remote setting to ensure seamless integration of mechanical components.
• Contribute to the selection of materials, manufacturing processes, and components, ensuring cost-effectiveness and performance.
• Document designs thoroughly, including Bills of Materials (BOMs), assembly instructions, and design rationale for remote team access.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior mechanical engineers within the remote team structure.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in mechanical design, with a focus on robotics, automation, or complex electromechanical systems.
• Expert proficiency in 3D CAD software and advanced simulation tools (FEA, CFD).
• Strong understanding of kinematics, dynamics, control systems, and mechatronics.
• Experience with precision mechanisms, actuators, sensors, and power transmission components.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple concurrent projects in a remote, deadline-driven environment.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly and concisely to a distributed team.
• Experience with agile development methodologies is a plus.
• Must be comfortable and effective working in a fully remote capacity.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package, including performance bonuses, comprehensive health coverage, and generous paid time off.
• This role provides the unique advantage of a fully remote work arrangement, offering exceptional flexibility and work-life balance.
• You’ll be part of an innovative company driving advancements in robotics and automation, with opportunities for significant professional growth and impact.
• Join a collaborative, forward-thinking team that embraces remote work and values creativity and technical excellence.