Head of Mechanical Engineering

Role overview

Applied Robotics is looking for a senior Mechanical Design leader to guide the team through the full lifecycle of advanced automation work, from early concept development through to commissioning. With 40 years of experience supporting manufacturers, the business focuses on solving complex industrial problems through engineering quality, innovation, and long-term partnerships.

This leadership position offers the chance to shape major project outcomes while also influencing how the organisation evolves as it delivers advanced, future-ready solutions to Australian industry.

What the role involves

In this position, you will lead both the strategic direction and the day-to-day performance of the Mechanical Engineering team. Your focus will include raising engineering standards, developing future leaders, and keeping the department aligned with emerging technologies and modern design practices.

You will work closely with Operations, Projects, Solutions, Controls, Production, and senior leaders to support the delivery of complex automation projects that provide long-term value for customers.

Key responsibilities

• Create and implement the Mechanical Design department's long-term strategy and delivery roadmap.
• Make sure team goals, capacity, and priorities are aligned with wider business objectives.
• Identify new technologies, tools, and methods that improve efficiency, output quality, and commercial performance.
• Track industry developments and promote innovation across the department.
• Coach, support, and develop engineers and designers into a high-performing team.
• Build a collaborative culture focused on continuous improvement and technical excellence.
• Help shape succession plans and prepare future leaders within the business.
• Work with People & Culture to hire, retain, and grow strong engineering talent.
• Distribute resources across multiple projects and priorities effectively.
• Ensure delivery remains on schedule, within budget, and aligned with quality expectations.
• Monitor workload balance, utilisation, and departmental performance.
• Maintain reliable forecasting and planning for project execution.
• Serve as the main connection between Mechanical Design and other internal teams, customers, and stakeholders.
• Partner with the Solutions team during concept development, pricing, and planning.
• Assist project teams with technical problem-solving and risk reduction.
• Improve engineering systems, workflows, and operational processes on an ongoing basis.
• Use business systems such as Procore, Employment Hero, and project management tools effectively.
• Strengthen governance, documentation quality, and design review procedures.
• Lead innovation throughout the design process and encourage testing of new approaches.
• Keep the team current with progress in robotics, automation, and mechanical engineering.
• Ensure all designs meet applicable standards, regulations, and safety requirements.
• Apply proactive risk management throughout the project lifecycle.
• Promote a strong culture of safety, accountability, and quality.

Success measures

Success in this role will be reflected in on-time and on-budget delivery, effective use of team resources, strong engineering documentation, satisfied clients and stakeholders, growth in team capability, stronger processes and systems, positive team engagement and retention, and consistent compliance with safety and engineering standards.

About you

You are a strategic engineering leader who enjoys combining technical depth with people leadership. You are motivated by building capability, improving systems, and delivering practical solutions to real industrial challenges.

• Broad experience in mechanical engineering, automation, process systems, or industrial systems.
• Proven experience leading engineering teams.
• Strong capability in project delivery, budgeting, and resource planning.
• Background in complex manufacturing, automation, robotics, or industrial settings.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• A mindset focused on continuous improvement and innovation.
• Good commercial judgement and problem-solving ability.

About the employer

Applied Robotics has spent more than four decades helping shape Australian manufacturing. The company has continued to evolve in response to global competition, new technologies, and changing customer needs, with a strong emphasis on developing talent and solving difficult manufacturing problems.

The business works with leading universities and research organisations, including UTS, Sydney University, Wollongong University, and CSIRO. Its long-standing partnerships with major industry names such as Arnott's, BlueScope Steel, Coca-Cola, BHP, and CHEP have supported the delivery of advanced automation solutions that improve competitiveness and capability.

Why join

• Meaningful work: contribute to high-impact automation projects for major Australian and APAC operations.
• Professional growth: gain exposure to advanced manufacturing technologies and continue expanding both technical and commercial skills.
• Supportive environment: join a diverse, collaborative team that values innovation and shared success.
• Full-lifecycle involvement: work for a business that manages projects from start to finish, giving you broad visibility and control over solutions.

Working arrangement

This is a full-time onsite position based in Silverwater, New South Wales, Australia. The role is for 40 hours per week.

Benefits

• Salary packaging
• Novated leasing
• Mental health leave