Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Powertrain Systems

Placements24; Windsor Park (TN); Hybrid; USD 54,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical aid

Retirement contributions

Performance incentives

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer focused on Powertrain Systems in East London, Eastern Cape. You will lead the design, development, and validation of advanced powertrain components, leveraging CAD and FEA tools to enhance performance and durability.

The role requires 7+ years in automotive powertrain design, strong CAD/FEA skills (CATIA/SolidWorks/ANSYS/Abaqus), and collaboration across teams. A hybrid work model is offered with on-site reviews and tests.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years in mechanical design, automotive powertrain focus.
• Proficient in 3D CAD and drafting standards (GD&T).
• Hands-on experience with FEA software for stress/thermal/vibration analysis.
• Knowledge of powertrain components and their manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical powertrain components (engines, transmissions, differentials).
• Create 3D models and 2D drawings using CATIA/SolidWorks; follow GD&T.
• Perform FEA-based validation (stress, thermal, vibration).
• Collaborate with manufacturing to ensure producibility and cost/quality optimization.
• Work with testing teams to define procedures and analyze results.
• Support material selection and manufacturing processes for powertrain parts.
• Lead design projects and mentor junior engineers.
• Stay updated on powertrain tech trends and innovations.

Skills

Powertrain systems knowledge

CAD software proficiency

FEM/FEA analysis

GD&T drafting standards

Hybrid collaboration skills

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

ANSYS

Abaqus

CATIA

SolidWorks

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the automotive manufacturing sector, is looking for a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer specializing in Powertrain Systems to join their team in East London, Eastern Cape . This role is crucial for the design, development, and validation of advanced powertrain components and systems that enhance performance, efficiency, and durability. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience with CAD tools, FEA analysis, and a deep understanding of engine, transmission, or driveline technologies. You will lead design projects, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and ensure the successful integration of powertrain solutions. This hybrid role offers the flexibility to work remotely on certain tasks while requiring on-site presence for critical team interactions, design reviews, and testing activities in East London .

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components for automotive powertrains, including engines, transmissions, differentials, and related systems.
• Create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings using advanced CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks), adhering to GD&T principles.
• Perform structural, thermal, and fatigue analysis using FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus) to validate designs.
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to ensure designs are feasible for production and optimize for cost and quality.
• Work with testing and validation teams to define test procedures and analyze results.
• Contribute to the selection of materials and manufacturing processes for powertrain components.
• Support product development from concept through to production launch, addressing any design issues that arise.
• Stay informed about emerging powertrain technologies and industry trends.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on design best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in mechanical design, with a significant focus on automotive powertrain systems.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software and a strong understanding of drafting standards.
• Hands-on experience with FEA software for stress, thermal, and vibration analysis.
• Knowledge of powertrain components and their function within a vehicle.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes relevant to powertrain production (e.g., casting, forging, machining).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, enabling effective collaboration.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing remote tasks with necessary on-site engagement.
• Experience with NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) analysis is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance incentives, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement contributions.
• The hybrid work model promotes a flexible work-life balance.
• You will have the opportunity to work on exciting and innovative powertrain projects within a leading automotive manufacturer based in East London .
• Opportunities for professional growth and development are actively supported.
• Join a dynamic team contributing to the future of automotive technology, with access to advanced design and simulation tools.