Lead Automotive Systems Engineer

Placements24; United States; Hybrid; USD 73,000 - 128,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Executive benefits package

Relocation assistance

Job summary

A prestigious automotive R&D firm in Klerksdorp, North West, is seeking a Lead Automotive Systems Engineer. You will oversee architecture, design, integration and validation of complex systems while guiding a team through the full product lifecycle.

The role blends remote strategic work with essential on-site validation at our advanced Klerksdorp facility, fostering innovation and engineering excellence across cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• 10+ years in automotive systems engineering with leadership exposure.
• Experience in design, integration, and validation of automotive systems.
• Strong knowledge of automotive electronics, embedded systems and control strategies.
• Familiarity with SysML, MBSE, MATLAB/Simulink; ISO 26262/AUTOSAR knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of automotive systems engineers through the product development lifecycle.
• Define system requirements, architectures, and interfaces for new automotive systems.
• Oversee design, simulation, integration, and validation of subsystems (powertrain, chassis, ADAS, infotainment).
• Manage timelines, resources and budgets for system engineering initiatives.
• Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Master's or PhD in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering or Mechatronics

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

SysML/MBSE

CAN/LIN/Ethernet

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious automotive research and development firm located in Klerksdorp, North West , is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Automotive Systems Engineer . This senior position involves overseeing the design, integration, and validation of complex automotive systems, ensuring they meet stringent performance, safety, and regulatory standards. You will lead a team of talented engineers, guiding them through the entire product development lifecycle, from concept to production. This role requires a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of vehicle architecture, mechatronics, and control systems. The hybrid nature of this role allows for focused R&D and strategic planning to be conducted remotely, while critical on-site activities such as prototype validation, team collaboration, and integration testing will be performed at our state-of-the-art Klerksdorp facility. We are looking for a leader who can inspire innovation, drive technical excellence, and foster a collaborative engineering culture. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape the future of automotive technology and contribute to groundbreaking projects. The successful candidate will be pivotal in bridging the gap between theoretical design and practical implementation, ensuring our client remains at the cutting edge of the industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of automotive systems engineers throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Define system requirements, architectures, and interfaces for new automotive systems.
• Oversee the design, simulation, integration, and validation of complex automotive subsystems (e.g., powertrain, chassis, ADAS, infotainment).
• Develop and manage project timelines, resources, and budgets for system engineering initiatives.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, and quality assurance.
• Ensure compliance with automotive industry standards and regulations (e.g., ISO 26262, AUTOSAR).
• Conduct feasibility studies and technology assessments for new automotive innovations.
• Analyze test data, identify performance issues, and implement solutions.
• Facilitate design reviews and technical decision-making processes.
• Contribute to strategic planning and technology roadmaps for the engineering department.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in automotive systems engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership or lead engineer role.
• Proven experience in system design, integration, and validation within the automotive industry.
• Strong understanding of automotive electronics, embedded systems, and control strategies.
• Familiarity with systems engineering methodologies and tools (e.g., SysML, MBSE, MATLAB/Simulink).
• Experience with automotive communication protocols (CAN, LIN, Ethernet).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to balance strategic remote work with essential on-site responsibilities.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and cross-functional teams.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Commitment to innovation and continuous improvement.

Benefits

• Hybrid work model offering flexibility and structured on-site engagement.
• Highly competitive salary and comprehensive executive benefits package.
• Leadership opportunity to shape advanced automotive technologies.
• Access to cutting-edge R&D facilities and resources in Klerksdorp .
• Continuous professional development and opportunities for international collaboration.
• Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates.
• Performance-based bonuses and long-term incentive plans.