Automotive Materials Engineer

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Generous paid time off

Access to modern laboratory facilities

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth is seeking an Automotive Materials Engineer to lead selection, development, and testing of advanced materials for vehicle production.

You will evaluate steels, aluminum, composites, and polymers, collaborate with design and manufacturing teams, and ensure materials meet safety, performance, weight, and cost targets; promote sustainability and fuel efficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field; Master's preferred.
• Minimum 6 years in materials engineering, with automotive sector experience.
• In-depth knowledge of metals, polymers, composites, and coatings.
• Experience with material testing techniques (mechanical, chemical, thermal).
• Familiarity with automotive standards and regulations related to materials.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
• Proficiency with material selection databases and simulation tools is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Research, evaluate, and recommend new materials for automotive applications focusing on performance and cost.
• Develop and implement material specifications and testing procedures.
• Conduct material characterization and failure analysis.
• Collaborate with R&D, design, and manufacturing teams to integrate materials into vehicle components.
• Oversee material qualification and regulatory compliance.
• Investigate and resolve material-related issues during development or production.
• Maintain a database of material properties and supplier information.
• Stay informed about advances in materials science for automotive applications.

Skills

Materials science

Analytical thinking

Communication

Team collaboration

Material testing

Education

Bachelor's in Materials Science/Metallurgical/related

Master's preferred

Tools

Material databases

Simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the automotive manufacturing industry, is looking for a dedicated Automotive Materials Engineer to join their team in Port Elizabeth. This critical role focuses on the selection, development, testing, and application of advanced materials used in vehicle production. You will be instrumental in ensuring that the materials chosen meet stringent requirements for safety, durability, performance, weight reduction, and cost-effectiveness. Responsibilities include evaluating new materials such as advanced high-strength steels, aluminum alloys, composites, and polymers, and working closely with design and manufacturing teams to implement them successfully. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in materials science, metallurgy, and polymer chemistry, combined with practical experience in the automotive sector. This is an on-site position where you will have the opportunity to directly influence the material composition of vehicles, contributing to enhanced fuel efficiency and sustainability. Join a collaborative environment committed to pushing the boundaries of automotive material innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Research, evaluate, and recommend new materials for automotive applications, focusing on performance, cost, and sustainability.
• Develop and implement material specifications and testing procedures.
• Conduct material characterization and failure analysis to understand material behavior under various conditions.
• Collaborate with R&D, design, and manufacturing teams to integrate new materials into vehicle components.
• Oversee material qualification processes and ensure compliance with industry standards.
• Investigate and resolve material-related issues that arise during development or production.
• Maintain a database of material properties and supplier information.
• Stay informed about advancements in materials science and their potential application in the automotive industry.
• Provide technical support and training on materials to relevant departments.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field; Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in materials engineering, with a significant focus on the automotive industry.
• In-depth knowledge of metals (steel, aluminum), polymers, composites, and coatings.
• Experience with material testing techniques (mechanical, chemical, thermal analysis).
• Familiarity with automotive standards and regulations related to materials.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.
• Proficiency in material selection databases and simulation tools is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a manufacturing environment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Generous paid time off.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.
• Access to modern laboratory facilities.
• Potential for career advancement within the organization.
• Employee discount programs.