Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Robotics & Automation

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,350,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Health coverage

Generous paid time off

Fully remote work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join a fully remote team developing next-generation robotic hardware and automation systems. From concept to prototyping and testing, you will drive end-to-end mechanical design in a distributed environment.

The role demands a Master's in Mechanical Engineering and 7+ years in robotics or electromechanical design, with strong CAD and simulation skills and a proven ability to manage multiple remote projects.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years in mechanical design, robotics, or electromechanical systems.
• Proficient in 3D CAD and advanced simulation tools (FEA, CFD).
• Strong knowledge of kinematics, dynamics, control systems, and mechatronics.
• Experience with precision mechanisms, actuators, sensors, and power transmission components.
• Ability to work independently on multiple remote projects.
• Excellent communication for distributed teams.
• Experience with agile development is a plus.
• Comfortable working in a fully remote capacity.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of robotic components, manipulators, and automation systems.
• Translate system requirements into detailed mechanical designs, specs, and drawings using CAD (SolidWorks, Onshape).
• Perform mechanical simulations and analyses (stress, thermal, dynamic) to optimize performance.
• Oversee fabrication, assembly, and testing of prototypes; troubleshoot design issues.
• Collaborate with electrical, software, and systems engineers in a remote setup.
• Contribute to materials selection, processes, and components for cost-effectiveness.
• Document designs with BOMs, assembly instructions, and design rationale for remote access.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior mechanical engineers.

Skills

Kinematics

Dynamics

Control systems

Mechatronics

3D CAD

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Onshape

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.