Principal Mechanical Engineer - Automotive Components

Placements24; Riverton (UT); On-site; USD 73,000 - 139,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive bonuses

Private healthcare

Retirement plan

Training & certification

Relocation assistance

International travel

Company vehicle

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer for its Upington-based advanced R&D center to drive next-gen automotive mechanical systems. You will lead design, analysis, and validation, while mentoring a team and coordinating with product, manufacturing, and quality groups to ensure successful development and launches.

The role requires a PhD or MSc in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering with 12+ years in the field, plus expertise in CAD/CAE tools and international collaboration.

Qualifications

• PhD or Masters in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering.
• 12+ years of automotive design and development experience.
• Proven track record leading complex engineering projects from concept to production.
• Experience with international teams and suppliers.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, analysis, and validation of automotive mechanical components and systems focusing on performance, durability, and cost.
• Develop innovative design concepts to address challenging engineering problems in automotive sector.
• Use CAD/CAE tools for detailed modeling, simulation (FEA/CFD), and optimization of designs.
• Provide mentorship to a team of mechanical engineers and technicians.
• Collaborate with product management, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure successful development and launch.
• Define technical requirements, specifications, and testing procedures.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and industry trends in automotive mechanical engineering.
• Manage technical aspects of supplier collaborations and ensure component quality.
• Contribute to IP development through patents and technical disclosures.

Skills

Leadership

Automotive engineering

Project management

Mentorship

Communication

Supplier collaboration

Vehicle dynamics knowledge

CAD/CAE tools

Education

PhD/MS in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering

Tools

Siemens NX

CATIA

ANSYS

Abaqus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized innovator in automotive component technology, is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer for their advanced research and development center located in Upington, Northern Cape. This is a pivotal role for an experienced engineer who will drive the design and development of next-generation automotive mechanical systems. You will be at the forefront of innovation, working on complex projects that require deep technical expertise and a strategic vision. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in automotive engineering, exceptional problem-solving skills, and the ability to lead technical initiatives. Join our client in Upington and play a key role in shaping the future of automotive engineering, contributing to groundbreaking advancements that enhance performance, safety, and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, analysis, and validation of complex mechanical components and systems for automotive applications, focusing on performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Develop innovative design concepts and solutions that address challenging engineering problems within the automotive sector.
• Utilize advanced CAD/CAE tools for detailed modeling, simulation (FEA, CFD), and optimization of mechanical designs.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to a team of mechanical engineers and technicians.
• Collaborate closely with product management, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure successful product development and launch.
• Define technical requirements, specifications, and testing procedures for new and existing components.
• Conduct thorough root cause analysis for design failures and implement corrective actions.Stay current with emerging technologies, industry trends, and best practices in automotive mechanical engineering.
• Manage technical aspects of supplier collaborations and ensure component quality meets stringent automotive standards.
• Contribute to intellectual property development through patent applications and technical disclosures.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• 12+ years of extensive experience in mechanical engineering, with a significant focus on automotive component design and development.
• Demonstrated expertise in leading complex engineering projects from concept to production.
• Mastery of CAD software (e.g., Siemens NX, CATIA) and advanced simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS Mechanical, Abaqus).
• In-depth knowledge of automotive materials, manufacturing processes (e.g., stamping, casting, forging), and industry standards (e.g., ISO/TS 16949).
• Proven ability to solve complex technical problems and drive innovation.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience working with international teams and suppliers.
• A strong understanding of vehicle dynamics, powertrain, or chassis systems is highly desirable.
• Residing in or willing to relocate to Upington, Northern Cape.

Benefits

• Exceptional salary package including executive bonuses and long-term incentives.
• Premium private healthcare and comprehensive wellness benefits.
• Generous retirement savings plan with substantial employer match.
• Ample opportunities for advanced professional training, certifications, and conference participation.
• State-of-the-art research and development facilities in Upington.
• A stimulating and challenging work environment with a focus on innovation.
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates.
• Potential for international assignments and travel.
• Company-provided vehicle or allowance.