Mechanical Design Engineer - Automotive

Placements24; Myrtle Beach (SC); On-site; USD 36,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement savings plan

Training and development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to join our East London, Eastern Cape product development team. The role emphasizes translating design concepts into manufacturable automotive components, collaborating with CAE, testing and manufacturing, and contributing to the next generation of vehicles.

Ideal candidates have a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering, 5+ years in automotive design, proficiency in CATIA/SolidWorks, and knowledge of DFMA.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering is required.
• 5+ years of experience in mechanical design, automotive preferred.
• Experience with DFMA (design for manufacturing/assembly).
• Knowledge of vehicle dynamics, powertrain, or chassis is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and systems for automotive applications using CAD software.
• Perform engineering calculations and simulations (stress, thermal) to validate designs.
• Collaborate with CAE, testing and manufacturing through the product development cycle.
• Create detailed drawings, specifications and BOMs for production.
• Participate in design reviews and address feedback.
• Troubleshoot design issues and implement engineering solutions.
• Ensure designs meet performance, quality, cost and timing targets.
• Stay updated on automotive trends and technologies.
• Support prototype development and testing activities.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA

SolidWorks

CAe tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a progressive automotive manufacturing company, is seeking a talented Mechanical Design Engineer to join their product development team in East London, Eastern Cape. This role will focus on the design and development of automotive components and systems, contributing to the next generation of vehicles. You will be responsible for translating design concepts into robust, manufacturable solutions, working closely with simulation, testing, and manufacturing departments. The position requires full-time dedication to our East London, Eastern Cape facility, fostering strong team collaboration and direct engagement with the manufacturing process. We are looking for a creative and detail-oriented engineer with a passion for automotive engineering and a solid understanding of mechanical design principles. This is a key role within a dynamic industry, offering significant opportunities for professional growth and contribution.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and systems for automotive applications using CAD software.
• Perform engineering calculations and simulations (e.g., stress analysis, thermal analysis) to validate designs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including CAE, testing, and manufacturing, throughout the product development cycle.
• Create detailed drawings, specifications, and Bill of Materials (BOMs) for production.
• Participate in design reviews, providing technical input and addressing feedback.
• Troubleshoot design issues and implement effective engineering solutions.
• Ensure designs meet performance, quality, cost, and timing targets.
• Stay updated on automotive industry trends, technologies, and best practices.
• Support prototype development and testing activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in mechanical design, preferably within the automotive industry.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks) and CAE tools.
• Strong understanding of automotive components, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Knowledge of vehicle dynamics, powertrain, or chassis systems is a plus.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Must be willing to work full-time at our East London, Eastern Cape location.
• Experience with design for manufacturing (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA).
• A passion for automotive innovation and technology.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid and a retirement savings plan.
• The role is based in East London, Eastern Cape, within a modern automotive manufacturing facility.
• Employees have access to excellent training and development opportunities, fostering career growth within the automotive sector.
• Our client is committed to innovation and employee well-being, providing a challenging and rewarding work environment.
• Join a dedicated team contributing to the advancement of automotive technology in the Eastern Cape.