Junior Mechanical Engineer (AGV & Agricultural Robotics)

AGV & Agricultural Robotics | Meraque Group

Location: Puchong, Selangor

Department: Product Development

Industry: Robotics, Autonomous Ground Vehicles (AGV) & Agricultural Technology

Meraque Group is looking for a Junior Mechanical Engineer to join our engineering and R&D team in developing and deploying Autonomous Ground Vehicles (AGVs) for agricultural applications.

This is a highly hands-on engineering role for someone who enjoys working beyond the drawing board — from mechanical design, fabrication and prototype assembly to machine testing, troubleshooting and field deployment.

You will work closely with our R&D, Operations, Procurement and field teams to develop and continuously improve AGV platforms and agricultural implements used in real plantation environments.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

AGV Research & Product Development

• Support the development of agricultural AGVs from concept and prototyping through fabrication, assembly, testing and field validation.
• Support the development and continuous improvement of AGV prototype units.
• Modify and improve mechanical components, structures and mechanisms based on testing and operational requirements.
• Identify mechanical weaknesses and recommend practical design improvements.
• Support prototype modifications and product improvement activities.
• Improve machine reliability, maintainability and operational performance.

Agricultural Implement Development

Support the mechanical integration, modification, testing and troubleshooting of AGV-mounted agricultural systems, including:

• Herbicide and pesticide spraying systems
• Granular and powder fertilizer spreaders
• Air-blast spraying systems
• Grass-cutting systems
• Other agricultural implements and attachments

Ensure proper mechanical integration between the AGV platform and agricultural implements for actual field operation.

Mechanical Design & Engineering

• Review and interpret mechanical drawings and assemblies.
• Use SolidWorks for drawing, assembly and basic mechanical design/modification work.
• Review dimensions, mounting arrangements, clearances and mechanical interfaces.
• Assist in converting engineering concepts into practical mechanical solutions.
• Modify designs based on fabrication limitations, testing results and field feedback.

Fabrication & Prototype Assembly

• Support fabrication of AGV frames, brackets, mounts, supports and mechanical components.
• Perform or supervise basic workshop activities such as: MIG welding, Cutting, Grinding, Drilling, Fitting & Mechanical assembly
• Assemble prototype AGVs and agricultural implements.
• Install engines, pumps, tanks and mechanical systems.
• Conduct mechanical inspections and initial commissioning.

Maintenance & Troubleshooting

• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on AGV mechanical systems.
• Troubleshoot engines, pumps, bearings, shafts, drive components, crawler tracks, undercarriage, hydraulic systems and mechanical linkages.
• Diagnose issues such as: Loss of speed or drive torque, Abnormal vibration, Mechanical wear, Component failure, Leakage, Overheating, Misalignment, Crawler/track problems
• Identify root causes and implement corrective actions to minimise machine downtime.

Hydraulic, Hydrostatic & Powertrain Systems

• Maintain and troubleshoot hydraulic and hydrostatic systems used in crawler AGVs.
• Work with hydraulic pumps, motors, tanks, hoses, fittings and filters.
• Support troubleshooting of hydraulic pressure, flow, leakage and crawler movement issues.
• Support AGVs using both hybrid drive and diesel-powered hydrostatic drive configurations.

Testing & Field Deployment

• Conduct mechanical and operational testing of AGVs.
• Perform testing following fabrication, maintenance or modification.
• Support AGV deployment and validation in plantation/agricultural environments.
• Conduct on-site mechanical troubleshooting and repairs.
• Evaluate machine performance under actual operating conditions.
• Record field observations and recommend engineering improvements.

Workshop, Spare Parts & Supplier Support

• Support maintenance of workshop equipment and tools.
• Identify mechanical spare-parts requirements.
• Source replacement and alternative components.
• Assist with supplier sourcing, quotation evaluation and technical discussions.
• Work with local and overseas suppliers, including China-based suppliers.
• Verify components against engineering requirements.

Documentation, Safety & SOP

Prepare and maintain:

• R&D test reports
• Field-testing reports
• Maintenance procedures
• Inspection checklists
• Workshop SOPs
• Fabrication/modification records
• Spare-parts documentation
• Risk assessments
• Support safe working practices during fabrication, maintenance, testing and field activities.

Team & Operational Support

• Coordinate with R&D, Operations, Procurement, suppliers and management.
• Provide technical input for equipment and component purchases.
• Support AGV site preparation, transportation and deployment.
• Provide basic mechanical guidance and training to AGV operators and R&D interns.
• Handle urgent technical and engineering issues when required.
  

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Agricultural Engineering or a related discipline.
• Fresh graduates are encouraged to apply.
• Candidates with 1–3 years of hands-on mechanical engineering experience will have an added advantage.
• Strong interest in robotics, AGVs, agricultural machinery or autonomous systems.
• Basic knowledge of mechanical design and engineering principles.
• Familiarity with SolidWorks or similar CAD software.
• Practical knowledge of mechanical fabrication and workshop tools.
• Understanding of engines, pumps, hydraulics, mechanical drive systems or powertrain systems is an advantage.
• Willingness to perform hands-on work in workshops and field environments.
• Willing to travel to plantation/agricultural sites when required.
• Good troubleshooting, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Able to work independently as well as collaboratively within a multidisciplinary engineering team.