Senior Robotics R&D: Mechanical Design Lead (Hybrid)

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

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.