Senior Mechanical Engineer - R&D

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary & benefits

Hybrid work environment

Access to research facilities

Patent filing opportunities

Creative work culture

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Mechanical Engineer to join its R&D team in Stellenbosch. This hybrid role drives conceptualization and development of next-generation mechanical technologies, translating ideas into prototypes and solutions.

The ideal candidate will have a strong theoretical foundation, hands-on prototyping skills, and a drive for discovery in a technologically advanced setting.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• 8+ years of experience in R&D focusing on new product development or advanced technology research.
• Extensive experience with prototyping and experimental validation methodologies.
• Proficiency in advanced simulation software and data analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of mechanics of materials, thermodynamics, and control systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead the research and development of novel mechanical concepts and technologies, driving innovation from ideation to feasibility studies.
• Design, build, and test complex prototypes, validating performance and functionality through rigorous experimentation.
• Conduct in-depth theoretical analysis and computational modeling (e.g., CFD, FEA) to predict and optimize system behavior.
• Collaborate with cross-functional R&D teams, including electrical engineers and software developers, to integrate mechanical systems.
• Document research findings, technical specifications, and intellectual property disclosures comprehensively.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior R&D engineers and technicians.

Skills

R&D experience

Prototyping

CFD/FEA

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CFD software

FEA

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an innovative Senior Mechanical Engineer to join their Research and Development team in Stellenbosch . This hybrid role is crucial for driving the conceptualization and development of next-generation mechanical technologies and products. You will work at the forefront of engineering innovation, tackling complex challenges and translating novel ideas into tangible prototypes and solutions. The ideal candidate possesses a strong theoretical foundation, hands-on prototyping skills, and a relentless drive for discovery within a supportive and technologically advanced setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research and development of novel mechanical concepts and technologies, driving innovation from ideation to feasibility studies.
• Design, build, and test complex prototypes, validating performance and functionality through rigorous experimentation.
• Conduct in-depth theoretical analysis and computational modeling (e.g., CFD, FEA) to predict and optimize system behavior.
• Collaborate with cross-functional R&D teams, including electrical engineers and software developers, to integrate mechanical systems.
• Document research findings, technical specifications, and intellectual property disclosures comprehensively.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior R&D engineers and technicians.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in R&D, focusing on new product development or advanced technology research.
• Extensive experience with prototyping and experimental validation methodologies.
• Proficiency in advanced simulation software & data analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of diverse engineering principles, including mechanics of materials, thermodynamics, and control systems.
• Excellent critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills for a research-intensive environment.

Benefits

• Attractive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Hybrid work environment fostering collaboration and flexibility.
• Access to cutting-edge research facilities and equipment.
• Opportunities for patent filing and participation in academic conferences.
• A stimulating work culture that encourages creativity and scientific exploration.