Senior Mechanical Systems Engineer - Industrial Automation

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical aid

Provident fund

Career development

Site travel allowance

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein is seeking a Senior Mechanical Systems Engineer to lead design and deployment of automated manufacturing systems. You will work on robotic cells, material handling, and custom machinery within a hybrid work model.

You will create 3D CAD models and manufacturing drawings using SolidWorks or Inventor, perform FEA and kinematic simulations, and select components such as motors and sensors.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in mechanical design and engineering for automation.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD and GD&T.
• Strong understanding of automation, robotics, and control systems.
• Experience with simulation and analysis tools (FEA).
• Knowledge of pneumatics, hydraulics, and material handling technologies.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Good communication and teamwork for a hybrid work environment.
• Experience with PLC programming or HMI is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design mechanical systems for industrial automation, incl. robotic cells and custom machinery.
• Create 3D CAD models and manufacturing drawings using SolidWorks or Inventor.
• Perform simulations (FEA, kinematic) to verify structural integrity and motion.
• Select motors, actuators, sensors, and power transmission components.
• Collaborate with electrical, control, and software teams for system integration.
• Develop test plans and troubleshoot mechanical issues.
• Prepare design docs, BOMs, and user manuals.
• Support installation, commissioning, and ongoing maintenance.
• Stay updated on automation tech and engineering practices.

Skills

Mechanical design

Automation principles

Robotics

FEA

GD&T

Problem-solving

Teamwork

PLC/HMI

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of advanced industrial automation solutions, is seeking a talented Senior Mechanical Systems Engineer to join their team in Bloemfontein. This hybrid role focuses on the design, development, and implementation of sophisticated mechanical systems for automated manufacturing processes. You will be instrumental in creating innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, precision, and reliability in industrial environments. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in mechanical design, automation principles, and a passion for problem-solving in complex industrial settings. You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team of engineers and technicians, contributing to projects from conceptualization through to final deployment and support. This is a significant opportunity to shape the future of automation technology and make a tangible impact on industrial productivity.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical systems for industrial automation, including robotic cells, material handling equipment, and custom machinery.
• Create detailed 3D CAD models, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings using industry-standard software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor).
• Perform engineering calculations and simulations (FEA, kinematic analysis) to validate designs for structural integrity, motion, and performance.
• Select appropriate components such as motors, actuators, sensors, bearings, and power transmission elements.
• Collaborate with electrical engineers, control engineers, and software developers to ensure seamless integration of mechanical and automated systems.
• Develop and execute test plans for mechanical systems, troubleshooting and resolving any issues encountered.
• Prepare technical documentation, including design specifications, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and user manuals.
• Support the installation, commissioning, and ongoing maintenance of automation systems at client sites.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automation technology and mechanical engineering practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in mechanical design and engineering, with a focus on industrial automation or machinery.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software and experience with GD&T.
• Solid understanding of automation principles, robotics, and control systems.
• Experience with simulation and analysis tools (FEA).
• Knowledge of industrial components, pneumatics, hydraulics, and material handling technologies.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities, suitable for a hybrid work environment.
• Experience with PLC programming or HMI development is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary up to ZAR per annum.
• Hybrid work model offering a blend of remote flexibility and essential office-based collaboration.
• Comprehensive medical aid and provident fund.
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
• Exposure to cutting-edge automation projects across various industries.
• Company vehicle or travel allowance for site visits.