Mechanical Engineer - Automotive Powertrain Development

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 47,000 - 73,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

State-of-the-art facilities

Growth opportunities in automotive

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join a leading automotive powertrain development team in Kimberley, South Africa. The role focuses on design, analysis, and testing of powertrain components to drive performance and durability.

Ideal candidates hold a Bachelors or Masters in Mechanical Engineering with 3–5 years in automotive powertrains, and have SolidWorks/CATIA, FEA/CFD, and powertrain testing experience. Legal work authorization in South Africa is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• 3–5 years of experience in automotive powertrains.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAE tools (SolidWorks, CATIA; FEA, CFD).
• Experience with powertrain testing and data acquisition.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes for powertrain components.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork.
• Automotive R&D experience desirable.
• Authorized to work in South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components for automotive powertrains, including engine parts and transmissions.
• Perform detailed analysis using CAD/CAE tools (FEA, CFD).
• Plan and execute experimental testing of powertrain components and systems.
• Collaborate with calibration engineers and manufacturing teams.
• Specify materials and manufacturing processes for powertrain components.
• Troubleshoot design issues and develop innovative solutions.
• Contribute to development of specifications and documentation.
• Stay updated on emerging powertrain technologies.
• Support integration of new powertrain designs into vehicle platforms.

Skills

CAD/CAE proficiency

Powertrain design

Analytical thinking

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

FEA

CFD

Data acquisition systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading automotive manufacturer, is seeking a talented Mechanical Engineer to join their Powertrain Development team in Kimberley. This role focuses on the design, analysis, and testing of advanced powertrain components and systems. You will contribute to the development of next-generation engines and drivelines, ensuring optimal performance, efficiency, and durability. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of mechanical principles, thermodynamics, and materials science, along with hands-on experience with testing and validation. Join an innovative company committed to automotive excellence, playing a key role in shaping the future of vehicles within Kimberley. This is an exciting opportunity for an engineer passionate about automotive technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components for automotive powertrains, including engine parts, transmission systems, and related sub-systems.
• Perform detailed analysis using CAD and CAE tools (FEA, CFD) to evaluate performance, durability, and thermal characteristics.
• Plan and execute experimental testing of powertrain components and systems, analyzing results to validate designs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including calibration engineers, vehicle integration specialists, and manufacturing engineers.
• Specify materials and manufacturing processes for powertrain components, considering performance requirements and cost targets.
• Troubleshoot design issues and develop innovative solutions to improve powertrain performance and reliability.
• Contribute to the development of technical specifications and documentation for powertrain components.
• Stay updated on emerging powertrain technologies and industry trends.
• Support the integration of new powertrain designs into vehicle platforms.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in mechanical design and development, with a focus on automotive powertrains.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) and CAE tools (FEA, CFD).
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science as applied to engines and transmissions.
• Experience with powertrain testing and data acquisition systems.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes relevant to powertrain components.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Experience working within an automotive R&D environment is highly desirable.
• Must have legal authorization to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and a retirement savings plan.
• You will have access to state‑of‑the‑art development facilities and opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the automotive industry.
• This role is based in our Kimberley facility, offering a dynamic and challenging work environment.
• We are committed to fostering innovation and teamwork.
• Enjoy working on cutting‑edge automotive technology with a dedicated team.