Senior Automotive Mechanical Engineer - Design & Development

Placements24; United States; On-site; USD 54,000 - 78,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Bonuses

Professional development

Modern Randburg facility

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Senior Automotive Mechanical Engineer to lead design, development, and testing of automotive components and systems. You will create detailed drawings, run simulations, and oversee prototype validation in a modern Randburg facility.

The role requires a strong mechanical engineering foundation, hands-on CAD with SolidWorks/CATIA/Creo, and knowledge of manufacturing processes and ISO/TS 16949.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• Minimum 7 years of automotive mechanical design and development experience.
• Proficiency in advanced CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA, Creo).
• Strong knowledge of FEA and simulation tools.
• Understanding of automotive manufacturing processes, materials science, and ISO/TS 16949.
• Experience with testing and validation procedures for automotive components.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of new automotive mechanical components and systems.
• Use CAD software to create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings.
• Perform FEA and other simulations to assess performance and durability.
• Oversee fabrication and assembly of prototypes to ensure design conformity.
• Develop and execute testing plans for component validation and performance verification.
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to optimize designs for mass production.
• Analyze test results, identify design flaws, and implement corrective actions.
• Research new materials and manufacturing technologies to enhance performance and cost-effectiveness.
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and documentation for product release.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on projects.

Skills

CAD software

FEA simulations

Mechanical design

Project management

Team leadership

Education

Mechanical Eng degree

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

Creo

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading automotive component manufacturer with a significant presence in Randburg , Gauteng, is seeking an experienced Senior Automotive Mechanical Engineer. This role is central to the design, development, and testing of innovative automotive components and systems. You will be responsible for conceptualizing new designs, creating detailed engineering drawings, performing simulations, and overseeing prototype development and validation. The ideal candidate possesses a strong foundation in mechanical engineering principles, extensive experience with CAD software, and a thorough understanding of automotive manufacturing processes and materials. This position offers a challenging and rewarding career path in a technologically advanced environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of new automotive mechanical components and systems.
• Utilize advanced CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) to create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings.
• Perform Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and other simulations to assess component performance and durability.
• Oversee the fabrication and assembly of prototypes, ensuring adherence to design specifications.
• Develop and execute comprehensive testing plans for component validation and performance verification.
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to optimize designs for mass production.
• Analyze test results, identify design flaws, and implement corrective actions.
• Research new materials and manufacturing technologies to enhance product performance and cost-effectiveness.
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and documentation for product release.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in automotive mechanical design and development.
• Proficiency in advanced CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, Creo).
• Strong knowledge of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and simulation tools.
• Understanding of automotive manufacturing processes, materials science, and quality standards (e.g., ISO/TS 16949).
• Experience with testing and validation procedures for automotive components.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong project management and organizational abilities.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• A valid driver's license.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, including comprehensive medical aid, a pension fund, and performance-related bonuses. Opportunities for professional development, continuous training, and career advancement are abundant. You will work in a modern facility in Randburg with access to cutting-edge technology and tools. This role provides the chance to make a significant impact on the development of future automotive technologies.