Senior Mechanical Engineer - Renewable Energy Systems

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid work arrangement

Stellenbosch location

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, to lead mechanical design for renewable energy projects. The role demands expertise in CAD/FEA, thermodynamics, and structural analysis, with collaboration across electrical and control disciplines to ensure seamless system integration.

You will oversee prototyping, testing, and validation, manage timelines, and guide junior engineers while contributing to innovative solutions for solar, wind, and energy storage

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• 7+ years of mechanical design/engineering experience.
• Experience in renewable energy systems (solar, wind, energy storage).
• Proficiency in CAD and FEA tools (SolidWorks, Inventor, CATIA, ANSYS, Abaqus).
• Strong thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer and structural dynamics.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design of key components and systems for renewable energy projects.
• Conduct stress, thermal, and fatigue analyses using FEA and other tools.
• Develop and refine 3D models, 2D drawings, and technical specifications.
• Collaborate with electrical and control engineers for seamless integration.
• Oversee prototyping, testing, and validation of designs for performance and reliability.
• Manage project timelines and budgets to meet scope and quality.
• Coordinate with manufacturing partners to optimize for cost-effective production.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Communication

Analytical skills

Team collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

CATIA

ANSYS

Abaqus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the renewable energy sector, is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Senior Mechanical Engineer to join their dedicated team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This role is central to the design, development, and optimization of mechanical systems for renewable energy technologies, such as solar, wind, or energy storage solutions. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in mechanical design, thermodynamics, and structural analysis, coupled with a passion for sustainable energy solutions. You will be involved in projects from conceptualization through to deployment, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of engineers and technical experts. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the advancement of clean energy technologies and drive significant environmental impact. The role is based at our main engineering hub in Stellenbosch, Western Cape , and operates on a hybrid model.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and engineering of key components and systems for renewable energy projects.
• Conduct detailed engineering analysis, including stress, thermal, and fatigue analysis, using FEA and other simulation tools.
• Develop and refine conceptual designs, creating detailed 3D models, 2D drawings, and technical specifications.
• Collaborate with electrical and control engineers to ensure seamless integration of mechanical and electrical systems.
• Oversee the prototyping, testing, and validation of mechanical designs to ensure performance, reliability, and durability.
• Manage project timelines and deliverables, ensuring adherence to budget and quality standards.
• Work with manufacturing partners to ensure designs are optimized for efficient and cost-effective production.
• Contribute to the selection of materials and manufacturing processes suitable for renewable energy applications.
• Identify and implement innovative solutions to enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of renewable energy systems.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers on the team.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in mechanical design and engineering, with a significant portion focused on renewable energy systems (solar, wind, energy storage, etc.).
• Expertise in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, CATIA) and advanced FEA simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus).
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer and structural dynamics.
• Experience with project management methodologies and tools.
• Proven ability to lead technical projects and collaborate effectively in a team environment.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of relevant industry standards and regulations in the renewable energy sector.
• Experience with materials selection for harsh environmental conditions is advantageous.
• Demonstrated passion for sustainability and renewable energy technologies.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, and a generous retirement savings plan.
• We provide extensive opportunities for professional development, including advanced training, conference attendance, and potential for international assignments.
• Join a forward-thinking company that is making a tangible difference in the world.
• The work environment is dynamic, collaborative, and focused on innovation.
• This role is based in the vibrant academic and technological hub of Stellenbosch, Western Cape , with the benefit of a hybrid work arrangement.