Senior Mechanical Engineer - Aerospace Structures

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Job summary

Placements24 in Polokwane, Limpopo, is seeking an experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead design and analysis of aerospace structures. You will perform advanced FEA, CAD design with CATIA/NX, and guide cross-functional teams through product lifecycles.

The role requires 8+ years in aerospace design/analysis, proficiency in ANSYS/Abaqus, and familiarity with ARP 4754/DO-160-like standards. A collaborative, results-driven leader will thrive in this regulated environment.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering is required.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in mechanical design and analysis within aerospace.
• Proven experience with structural design, analysis (FEA), and testing of aircraft components.
• Advanced proficiency in CAD software (CATIA, NX) and FEA tools (ANSYS, Abaqus).
• Knowledge of aerospace materials and manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and analysis of aerospace structural components and assemblies.
• Perform advanced stress, fatigue, vibration, and thermal analysis using FEA software.
• Develop and optimize designs using CAD software to meet aerospace requirements.
• Collaborate with materials specialists, manufacturing engineers, and QA teams.
• Define testing requirements and oversee validation and verification activities.
• Ensure designs comply with aerospace standards and customer specifications.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to technical development.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for project reviews.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies in aerospace structural engineering.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication

Regulatory compliance

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

CATIA

NX

ANSYS

Abaqus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in aerospace manufacturing and innovation, is seeking an experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer to contribute to critical projects within their state-of-the-art facility in Polokwane, Limpopo. This role requires a deep expertise in the design, analysis, and testing of complex aerospace structures, ensuring they meet the highest standards of performance, safety, and reliability. You will play a key role in the development of advanced aircraft components, working with cutting-edge materials and manufacturing techniques. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in aerospace engineering, a thorough understanding of structural mechanics, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of aerospace technology. This is an exceptional opportunity to join a highly respected organization at the forefront of aviation innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and analysis of aerospace structural components and assemblies.
• Perform advanced stress, fatigue, vibration, and thermal analysis using FEA software.
• Develop and optimize designs using CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5/V6, NX) to meet stringent aerospace requirements.
• Collaborate with materials specialists, manufacturing engineers, and quality assurance teams throughout the product lifecycle.
• Define testing requirements and procedures for structural components, overseeing validation and verification activities.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant aerospace standards (e.g., ARP 4754, DO-160) and customer specifications.
• Troubleshoot complex technical issues and propose effective engineering solutions.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the technical development of the engineering team.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, documentation, and presentations for project reviews.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and best practices in aerospace structural engineering.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in mechanical design and analysis, specifically within the aerospace sector.
• Proven experience with structural design, analysis (FEA), and testing of aircraft components.
• Advanced proficiency in CAD software (e.g., CATIA, NX) and FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus).
• In-depth knowledge of aerospace materials (e.g., aluminum alloys, titanium, composites) and manufacturing processes.
• Strong understanding of aerospace systems, aerodynamics, and flight mechanics is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a highly regulated and demanding environment.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health and welfare benefits, a generous retirement plan, and significant opportunities for professional development, training, and career advancement within the aerospace industry. Employees enjoy a stimulating work environment in Polokwane , with access to advanced facilities and the chance to work on highly innovative projects that contribute to the future of flight. The company fosters a culture of excellence, teamwork, and continuous improvement.