Senior Mechanical Engineer : Gimbal Systems

Top Recruitment; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 700 000; Full time

Job summary

An industry-leading R&D organisation in South Africa is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer. This role involves leading the design of advanced gimbal systems for optical payloads while collaborating with various engineering teams. Ideal candidates hold a Mechanical Engineering degree and have gimbal design experience. This position offers a chance to work in a cutting-edge environment focused on innovation and engineering excellence.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in gimbal design is essential.
• Experience with DTV or electro-optical camera systems will be highly advantageous.
• Strong background in precision mechanical systems and dynamic balancing.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design of gimbal systems for optical payloads.
• Collaborate with engineering teams for seamless integration.
• Conduct mechanical simulations and testing for reliability.

Skills

Gimbal design expertise

Mechanical problem solving

3D CAD proficiency

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Creo

Job description

Introduction

An industry-leading R&D organisation specialising in advanced optical systems for the international civil and security sectors is seeking a highly skilled Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their dynamic team in Centurion.

Duties & Responsibilities

This exciting role calls for a mechanical engineer with deep expertise in the design and development of precision gimbal systems, used in DTV (Day TV) and electro-optical camera applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of advanced gimbal systems for optical payloads.
• Collaborate closely with optical, electronic, and control engineering teams to ensure seamless integration.
• Drive innovation and optimisation in gimbal design for performance, weight, and durability.
• Conduct mechanical simulations, tolerance analyses, and environmental testing for reliability and precision.
• Support prototype builds, verification, and validation in R&D and field testing environments.
• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior engineers and technicians.

Desired Experience & Qualification

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent).
• Proven experience in gimbal design is essential.
• Experience with DTV or electro-optical camera systems will be highly advantageous.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo, or similar).
• Strong background in precision mechanical systems, dynamic balancing, and motion assemblies.
• Excellent problem solving skills and a passion for mechanical innovation in complex systems.

Why This Opportunity?

This is an exceptional opportunity to join a world-class R&D environment, contributing to cutting‑edge optical technology deployed globally in both civil and security domains.

The organisation offers a collaborative, forward‑thinking culture where engineering excellence and innovation are at the core of every project.

Applications are invited from senior‑level mechanical engineers who are ready to take on a technically challenging and rewarding role in advanced gimbal design.