Senior Mechanical Engineer - Mechatronics & Automation

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Performance bonuses

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer with mechatronics and automation expertise for our Stellenbosch facility. You will lead design, validate systems, mentor junior engineers, and ensure mechanical integrity of automated machinery.

The role requires a Masters in Mechanical Engineering, 8+ years in mechanical design, CAD (SolidWorks/CATIA), FEA/CFD, and hands-on robotics and PLC integration.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 8+ years of progressive mechanical design experience with emphasis on mechatronics & automation.
• Proven CAD modeling, FEA, and system integration expertise.
• Hands-on experience with robotic systems and PLC-controlled automation.

Responsibilities

• Lead design of advanced mechatronic and automated systems, including robotic cells and precision machinery.
• Perform detailed mechanical design using CAD and conduct comprehensive FEA and CFD analyses.
• Integrate mechanical systems with electrical components, sensors, actuators, and PLCs.
• Develop and manage BOMs, technical specifications, and manufacturing documentation.
• Oversee assembly, testing, and commissioning of automated systems, ensuring safety & performance.
• Collaborate with electrical engineers, software developers, and project managers throughout the life cycle.
• Troubleshoot complex mechanical/mechatronic issues during design, manufacturing, and operation.
• Mentor junior engineers and promote technical excellence within the team.
• Stay current with robotics, automation, and mechatronics advancements.

Skills

Mechatronics

Automation

CAD modeling

FEA

CFD

Robotics

Leadership

Project management

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

FEA

CFD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in automated industrial solutions and advanced manufacturing technologies, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer with expertise in mechatronics and automation for their facility in **Stellenbosch, Western Cape**. This role is critical for the conceptualization, design, and implementation of complex automated systems that drive efficiency and innovation in various industries. You will be responsible for leading design projects, mentoring junior engineers, and ensuring the mechanical integrity and performance of cutting-edge automated machinery. The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of mechanical engineering principles, coupled with hands-on experience in mechatronic systems, robotics, and control integration. Join a dynamic team in **Stellenbosch, Western Cape**, focused on delivering state-of-the-art solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of advanced mechatronic and automated systems, including robotic cells and precision machinery.
• Perform detailed mechanical design using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) and conduct comprehensive FEA and CFD analyses.
• Integrate mechanical systems with electrical components, sensors, actuators, and control systems (PLCs).
• Develop and manage Bills of Materials (BOMs), technical specifications, and manufacturing documentation.
• Oversee the assembly, testing, and commissioning of automated systems, ensuring adherence to performance and safety standards.
• Collaborate closely with electrical engineers, software developers, and project managers throughout the product development life-cycle.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical and mechatronic issues during design, manufacturing, and operation.
• Mentor and guide junior engineering staff, fostering a culture of technical excellence.
• Stay current with advancements in robotics, automation, and mechatronics technologies.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in mechanical design, with a strong emphasis on mechatronics and automation.
• Proven expertise in CAD modeling, FEA, and system integration.
• Hands-on experience with robotic systems, automated machinery, and control systems.
• Solid understanding of sensors, actuators, motion control, and PLCs.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in project management and leading engineering teams.
• Familiarity with industrial automation standards and best practices.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and performance-based bonuses. Professional development opportunities, including specialized training and access to cutting-edge research, are provided. This role is based in **Stellenbosch, Western Cape**, offering a stimulating work environment and the chance to be part of groundbreaking automation projects. Employees enjoy a supportive team culture, access to excellent facilities, and opportunities for career advancement within a leading technology company. This is a full-time, on-site position within the **Stellenbosch, Western Cape** area, requiring dedicated in-person collaboration.