Senior Mechanical Engineer - Aerospace Components

Placements24; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Retirement plan

Training & development

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer for our client in Benoni, Gauteng, to drive design, development, and qualification of complex aerospace systems. You will apply CATIA V5 and FEA tools to push performance while ensuring compliance with AS9100/FAA standards.

The role requires a track record of 8+ years in aerospace or defense mechanical design, strong analytical skills, and the ability to mentor junior engineers in a highly regulated environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• 8+ years of progressive mechanical design experience in aerospace/defense.
• Proficiency in CATIA V5 and FEA tools like ANSYS/NASTRAN.
• Knowledge of aerospace materials and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with qualification testing and certification.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design and development of aerospace components and systems.
• Use CATIA/FEA tools to perform stress, thermal, and modal analyses.
• Conduct design reviews ensuring compliance with specs and safety.
• Oversee qualification and testing of components (vibration, vacuum, functional).
• Collaborate with manufacturing to optimize production and assembly.
• Mentor junior engineers and document design procedures.
• Prepare technical documentation and reports.
• Stay updated on aerospace materials and design methods.

Skills

Aerospace design experience

Structural analysis

Team mentoring

Regulated environment

Independent worker

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

CATIA V5

ANSYS

NASTRAN

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly reputable manufacturer of specialized aerospace components, is actively recruiting a Senior Mechanical Engineer for their facility in Benoni, Gauteng . This role demands a high level of expertise in the design, development, and qualification of critical aerospace mechanical systems and components. You will be instrumental in conceptualizing innovative designs, performing rigorous analysis, and ensuring compliance with stringent aerospace industry standards (e.g., AS9100, FAA regulations). The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of materials, stress analysis, fatigue, thermal management, and complex manufacturing processes within the aerospace sector. You will collaborate with a dedicated team of engineers and technicians to deliver cutting-edge solutions for aircraft and space applications. Join an organization committed to precision, quality, and innovation at the forefront of aerospace technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of complex aerospace components and systems, such as structural elements, actuation systems, and thermal management solutions.
• Utilize advanced CAD/CAE tools (e.g., CATIA, ANSYS) for detailed design, stress analysis, thermal analysis, and modal analysis.
• Perform thorough design reviews, ensuring adherence to aerospace specifications, tolerances, and safety requirements.
• Conduct trade studies and material selection processes to identify optimal solutions based on performance, weight, cost, and environmental factors.
• Oversee and participate in the qualification and testing of aerospace components, including vibration, thermal vacuum, and functional testing.
• Collaborate closely with manufacturing engineers to ensure designs are optimized for production and assembly.
• Mentor and guide junior mechanical engineers, fostering technical excellence and adherence to best practices.
• Prepare comprehensive technical documentation, including design reports, test plans, qualification reports, and manufacturing instructions.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in aerospace materials, technologies, and design methodologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in mechanical design, with a significant portion dedicated to the aerospace or defense industries.
• Proven expertise in designing and analyzing components for flight hardware.
• Proficiency in advanced CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5) and FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN).
• Strong understanding of aerospace materials (e.g., aluminum alloys, composites, titanium), manufacturing processes, and aerospace standards.
• Experience with qualification testing and certification processes for aerospace components.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a high-performing team in a highly regulated environment.
• Security clearance or ability to obtain one may be required.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and bonus structure reflecting experience and expertise.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Opportunities for advanced training, certifications, and professional development in aerospace engineering.
• Access to cutting-edge technologies and facilities in Benoni .
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Involvement in groundbreaking aerospace projects with significant industry impact.