Senior Mechanical Engineer - Advanced Materials

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund with employer contribu

Professional growth opportunities

Research publication opportunities

Stock options

Bonuses

Paid vacation and statutory leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to join its East London team. You will drive mechanical design, testing, and integration of novel material-based systems on-site, collaborating closely with researchers and technicians.

The role emphasizes leadership in design, material science integration, and hands-on experimentation within a multidisciplinary R&D environment in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or Materials Science is required.
• 7+ years of experience in mechanical design and advanced materials.
• Strong knowledge of material properties, failure mechanisms and mechanical behavior.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of systems using advanced materials.
• Perform CAD-based design, FEA, fatigue analysis, and simulations.
• Design and oversee material characterization and testing setups.
• Collaborate with scientists to integrate material data into designs.
• Mentor engineers and technicians on projects.

Skills

Material properties

Failure mechanisms

Mechanical behavior

CAD software

FEA

Mechanical testing

Multidisciplinary collaboration

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or Materials Science

Tools

CAD software

FEA software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge research and development firm specializing in advanced materials, is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to join their innovative team in East London, Eastern Cape . This role will focus on the mechanical design, testing, and integration of novel material-based systems and components. You will be instrumental in translating material science breakthroughs into practical, high-performance engineering solutions for a variety of demanding applications. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in mechanical design, material properties, and testing methodologies, with a passion for pushing the boundaries of engineering. This position requires your consistent presence on-site in East London to collaborate closely with research scientists, engineers, and technicians, and to manage hands-on experimental work and product development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of systems and components utilizing advanced materials.
• Perform detailed mechanical design, analysis (FEA, fatigue), and simulation of new products and prototypes.
• Select appropriate materials and manufacturing processes for components made from novel composites, ceramics, or alloys.
• Design and oversee experimental setups for material characterization and product performance testing.
• Collaborate with materials scientists to understand material behavior and integrate findings into designs.
• Develop and document design specifications, test procedures, and manufacturing guidelines.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical design and material integration challenges.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians, providing technical guidance and support.
• Ensure designs meet rigorous performance, safety, and reliability requirements.
• Stay current with advancements in materials science and mechanical engineering relevant to R&D applications.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or Materials Science.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in mechanical design and development, with a significant focus on advanced materials.
• Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of material properties, failure mechanisms, and mechanical behavior.
• Proficiency in CAD software and engineering simulation tools (FEA).
• Experience in designing and conducting mechanical testing is essential.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary R&D environment.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and lead technical initiatives.
• Familiarity with various manufacturing processes for advanced materials (e.g., additive manufacturing, composites fabrication).
• Must be willing to work full-time on-site in East London, Eastern Cape .

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and benefits package.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement fund with generous employer contributions.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, advanced training, and research publication.
• Work on groundbreaking projects at the forefront of materials engineering.
• A stimulating and collaborative R&D environment in East London, Eastern Cape .
• Paid vacation and other statutory leave benefits.Potential for stock options or significant bonuses.