Automotive Mechanical Engineer

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive rate

Hybrid work arrangement

Cutting-edge projects

Advanced engineering tools

Professional growth

Bloemfontein R&D

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein seeks an Automotive Mechanical Engineer to design, develop and test components and systems for modern vehicles. You will work on powertrain, chassis and body structures, applying CAD tools and simulations to optimize performance and durability.

The role supports a hybrid work model, combining on-site collaboration in Bloemfontein with flexible remote work. A strong theoretical foundation and hands-on experience in automotive engineering are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in automotive mechanical design and development.
• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA, AutoCAD) for 3D modeling and drafting.
• Strong understanding of mechanical principles, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and materials science.
• Experience with simulation/analysis tools such as ANSYS, ABAQUS, or equivalent.
• Familiarity with automotive testing procedures and equipment.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment, on-site and remote duties.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and systems for automotive applications, including powertrain, chassis, and body structures.
• Conduct simulations and analyses (e.g., FEA, CFD) to predict component performance and durability.
• Create detailed engineering drawings, models, and specifications using CAD software.
• Oversee the prototyping and testing of new components and systems, analyzing results to ensure they meet design requirements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers, software developers, and manufacturing specialists.
• Identify areas for improvement in existing vehicle designs and propose innovative solutions.
• Develop and implement validation plans for new and modified automotive systems.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues encountered during testing or production and recommend corrective actions.
• Research emerging automotive technologies and materials to inform future designs.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to project stakeholders.

Skills

Mechanical design

Engineering analysis

Team collaboration

Hybrid work

Education

Bachelor's/Master's in Mechanical Eng.

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

AutoCAD

ANSYS

ABAQUS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent automotive research and development firm located in Bloemfontein, is seeking an innovative and experienced Automotive Mechanical Engineer to join their dedicated team. This role involves contributing to the design, development, and testing of automotive components and systems. The successful candidate will work on exciting projects, leveraging their mechanical engineering expertise to enhance vehicle performance, efficiency, and durability. This position offers a hybrid work model, combining valuable time in our Bloemfontein facility with the flexibility of remote work. We are looking for a proactive individual with a strong theoretical foundation and practical experience in automotive engineering principles. You will collaborate with a team of skilled professionals, pushing the boundaries of automotive technology. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a significant impact in the automotive sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and systems for automotive applications, including powertrain, chassis, and body structures.
• Conduct simulations and analyses (e.g., FEA, CFD) to predict component performance and durability.
• Create detailed engineering drawings, models, and specifications using CAD software.
• Oversee the prototyping and testing of new components and systems, analyzing results to ensure they meet design requirements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers, software developers, and manufacturing specialists.
• Identify areas for improvement in existing vehicle designs and propose innovative solutions.
• Develop and implement validation plans for new and modified automotive systems.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues encountered during testing or production and recommend corrective actions.
• Research emerging automotive technologies and materials to inform future designs.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to project stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in automotive mechanical design and development.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, AutoCAD) for 3D modeling and drafting.
• Strong understanding of mechanical principles, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and materials science.
• Experience with simulation and analysis tools such as ANSYS, ABAQUS, or equivalent.
• Familiarity with automotive testing procedures and equipment.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment, managing time between on-site and remote duties.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Knowledge of automotive manufacturing processes is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive contract rate.
• Flexible hybrid work arrangement.
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge automotive projects.
• Exposure to advanced engineering tools and methodologies.
• Professional growth and skill development in a specialized field.
• Be part of a forward-thinking R&D team in Bloemfontein.