Automotive Battery Systems Engineer

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonus

Medical insurance

PTO / holidays

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Automotive Battery Systems Engineer for our East London-based client. You will design, develop, and integrate high-voltage battery packs for electric and hybrid vehicles, addressing mechanical, electrical, and thermal aspects.

The role requires strong knowledge of BMS interfaces, cell selection, pack integration, and thermal management, with a focus on safety standards and rigorous testing.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical Engineering or related field
• Master's degree is a plus
• Minimum 6 years in battery systems design for automotive
• Strong knowledge of BMS hardware/software interactions
• Experience with thermal management for battery packs
• Proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink and ANSYS

Responsibilities

• Design and develop high-voltage battery pack systems for EVs and HEVs, including mechanical, electrical and thermal aspects
• Select battery cells, modules and components based on performance, cost and safety
• Develop pack architectures and thermal management strategies for optimal performance and longevity
• Integrate battery systems with vehicle electrical architecture and powertrain
• Collaborate with BMS engineers to define requirements and ensure seamless operation
• Perform analysis and testing to validate safety and durability under various conditions
• Troubleshoot battery system issues related to performance, safety or reliability
• Ensure compliance with safety standards for high-voltage systems

Skills

Battery systems design

BMS hardware/software

Thermal management

Analytical skills

Hybrid vehicle integration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Chemical Engineering

Master's degree

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

ANSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic automotive manufacturer, is seeking an experienced Automotive Battery Systems Engineer to join their innovative team based in East London, Eastern Cape, ZA . This hybrid role focuses on the design, development, and integration of advanced battery systems for electric and hybrid vehicles. You will be integral in ensuring the performance, safety, and reliability of battery packs, working on everything from cell selection and pack architecture to thermal management and Battery Management System (BMS) integration. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the electrification of transportation and work within a collaborative environment that balances in-office synergy with remote flexibility. If you are passionate about battery technology and electric vehicles, this role offers a chance to make a significant impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop high-voltage battery pack systems for electric and hybrid vehicles, including mechanical, electrical, and thermal aspects.
• Select appropriate battery cells, modules, and components based on performance, cost, and safety requirements.
• Develop battery pack architectures and thermal management strategies to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
• Integrate battery systems with the vehicle's overall electrical architecture and powertrain.
• Collaborate with BMS software engineers to define requirements and ensure seamless system operation.
• Perform analysis and testing to validate battery system performance, safety, and durability under various operating conditions.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to battery system performance, safety, or reliability.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety standards and regulations for battery systems (e.g., UN 38.3, ECE R100).
• Stay current with advancements in battery technology, materials, and manufacturing processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in battery systems design and development, with a significant focus on automotive applications.
• Proven experience with battery pack design, cell characterization, and pack integration.
• Strong understanding of battery management systems (BMS) hardware and software interactions.
• Experience with thermal management solutions for battery packs.
• Proficiency in relevant simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, ANSYS).
• Knowledge of safety standards and testing procedures for high-voltage battery systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, managing tasks both remotely and on-site.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement in the EV sector.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Access to leading-edge EV development technologies and resources.
• Flexible hybrid work schedule promoting work-life balance.
• Be part of a pioneering team in electric vehicle innovation.