Senior R&D Mechanical Engineer - Robotics & Automation

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

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Medical insurance

Retirement plan

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng, seeks a Senior R&D Mechanical Engineer to lead the mechanical design and development of advanced robotic platforms. You will drive prototyping and work with cross-functional teams to push the boundaries of automation.

The role requires a strong background in robotics, CAD, and analytical skills, with at least 7 years in R&D environments. On-site work with some remote flexibility is available within a hybrid setup.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years in mechanical design and development, with robotics/automation focus.
• Proven R&D experience bringing concepts to prototypes.
• Expertise in CAD (SolidWorks preferred) and FEA/CFD.
• Strong understanding of kinematics, dynamics, control systems, actuators, and sensors.
• Experience with agile development is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and collaborative skills.
• Hybrid environment with on-site work in Sandton, Gauteng.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of robotic platforms from concept to prototype.
• Conduct detailed mechanical analysis (stress, strain, thermal, vibration).
• Utilize CAD software and simulations for design validation.
• Collaborate with control, software, and electrical teams to integrate systems.
• Oversee prototyping and testing; iterate based on results.
• Research new technologies and materials to enhance capabilities.
• Document designs, specs, and test results.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to R&D strategy.
• Ensure designs are optimized for manufacturing and maintenance in Sandton.

Skills

Robotics & automation

Mechanical design

R&D experience

Analytical thinking

Strong collaboration

Education

Master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

FEA/CFD

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading innovator in the field of robotics and industrial automation, developing advanced solutions that transform manufacturing processes. We are seeking a highly skilled Senior R&D Mechanical Engineer to join our forward-thinking team in Sandton, Gauteng. This role is central to driving the next generation of robotic systems, focusing on the mechanical design, development, and prototyping of innovative robotic hardware. You will work on challenging projects that require creative problem-solving, deep mechanical expertise, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of what's possible in automation. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge research and development in a dynamic and growth‑oriented industry within Sandton, Gauteng.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of new robotic platforms, manipulators, and end‑effectors from concept to functional prototype.
• Conduct detailed mechanical analysis, including stress, strain, thermal, and vibration analysis, to ensure robustness and performance.
• Utilize advanced CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor) and simulation tools for design and validation.
• Collaborate with control systems engineers, software developers, and electrical engineers to integrate mechanical systems seamlessly.
• Oversee the prototyping and testing of new mechanical designs, iterating based on performance feedback.
• Research emerging technologies and materials to enhance robotic system capabilities and efficiency.
• Document designs, specifications, and test results thoroughly.
• Mentor junior mechanical engineers and contribute to the overall technical strategy of the R&D department.
• Ensure mechanical designs are optimized for manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance in a production environment relevant to Sandton, Gauteng's industrial landscape.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in mechanical design and development, with a strong emphasis on robotics, automation, or complex mechatronic systems.
• Proven experience in R&D environments, bringing novel concepts to tangible prototypes.
• Expertise in CAD software (SolidWorks preferred) and FEA/CFD simulation tools.
• Strong understanding of kinematics, dynamics, control systems, actuators, and sensors relevant to robotics.
• Experience with agile development methodologies is a plus.
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and creative thinking skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities, comfortable working in a hybrid environment.
• Willingness to work on‑site in Sandton, Gauteng, with potential for some remote flexibility.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, commensurate with your R&D expertise and seniority, along with an annual bonus program.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans are provided.
• A generous retirement savings plan is available.
• We are committed to fostering career growth through ongoing professional development, including training programs, workshops, and support for advanced studies.
• You will work in a stimulating, innovation‑driven environment with opportunities to lead challenging projects.
• Our client values work‑life balance, offering a hybrid work model that combines on‑site collaboration with remote flexibility in Sandton, Gauteng.