Senior Mechanical Engineer - Product Development (Remote)

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,969,000 - 2,789,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Bonuses based on performance

Health/dental/vision insurance

Flexible hours

Home office setup allowance

Career growth opportunities

Learning resources & online courses

Regular virtual team events

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to join a remote-first product development team shaping mechanical design for consumer electronics from concept to mass production.

You will create 3D CAD models, run FEA simulations, select materials, and collaborate across design, electrical, and software teams to ensure manufacturability and optimal thermal performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years in mechanical design and product development, preferably consumer electronics.
• Proficient in CAD software (SolidWorks, Creo, Fusion 360).
• Experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, SolidWorks Simulation).
• Knowledge of plastic injection molding, metal fabrication, and assembly processes.
• Experience with thermal management for electronic devices.
• Strong remote-team collaboration and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design and development from concept to manufacturing readiness.
• Create detailed 3D CAD models and 2D drawings for components and assemblies.
• Perform mechanical stress analyses, thermal simulations, and vibration analyses (FEA).
• Select materials and processes (injection molding, die casting, CNC) for performance and cost.
• Collaborate with industrial designers to translate aesthetics into manufacturable designs.
• Work with electrical/firmware teams to ensure integration within enclosures.
• Develop and execute testing plans (environmental, durability, performance).
• Troubleshoot design issues and implement effective solutions.
• Manage relationships with suppliers and contract manufacturers for quality and delivery.
• Contribute to cost-reduction initiatives and DFM improvements.

Skills

CAD proficiency

FEA simulations

Remote collaboration

Strong communication

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Creo

Fusion 360

ANSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and rapidly growing consumer electronics company, is looking for a highly motivated Senior Mechanical Engineer to join their fully remote product development team. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the mechanical design of innovative consumer products from concept through to mass production. As a remote-first organization, we foster a culture of trust, autonomy, and seamless virtual collaboration. You will be responsible for the end-to-end mechanical engineering aspects of new product initiatives, working closely with industrial designers, electrical engineers, and software teams. This role demands a strong blend of creative problem-solving, hands-on design skills, and a deep understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, and thermal management. If you are passionate about bringing exciting new products to market and thrive in a flexible, remote work environment, this is the perfect fit. We are committed to empowering our engineers to do their best work, wherever they are.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of new consumer electronic products, from initial concept to manufacturing readiness.
• Create detailed 3D CAD models and 2D manufacturing drawings for components and assemblies.
• Perform mechanical stress analysis, thermal simulations, and vibration analysis using FEA tools.
• Select appropriate materials and manufacturing processes (e.g., injection molding, die casting, CNC machining) for optimal product performance and cost-efficiency.
• Collaborate closely with industrial design teams to translate aesthetic requirements into manufacturable designs.
• Work with electrical engineering and firmware teams to ensure seamless integration of electronic components within mechanical enclosures.
• Develop and execute rigorous product testing plans, including environmental, durability, and performance testing.
• Troubleshoot design issues and implement effective solutions during the development cycle.
• Manage relationships with external suppliers and contract manufacturers to ensure quality and timely delivery.
• Contribute to product cost reduction initiatives and DFM (Design for Manufacturability) improvements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in mechanical design and product development, preferably within the consumer electronics industry.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo, Fusion 360).
• Experience with FEA simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, SolidWorks Simulation).
• Solid understanding of plastic injection molding, metal fabrication, and assembly processes.
• Experience with thermal management techniques for electronic devices.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, adept at working within a remote team structure.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Self-motivated and able to manage priorities effectively in a remote setting.
• Familiarity with product compliance and regulatory standards is a plus.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package tailored for remote professionals.
• Generous stock options and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Flexible working hours and a supportive remote work environment.
• Company-provided equipment and home office setup allowance.
• Opportunities for rapid career advancement in a fast-growing company.
• Involvement in the development of exciting, cutting-edge consumer products.
• Access to online learning platforms and professional development resources.
• Regular virtual team events and social activities.