Automotive Mechanical Engineer

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an automotive mechanical engineer to join a hybrid R&D team operating between Richards Bay and remote work. You will design, develop, and test new mechanical components and systems for vehicle applications, with simulations, prototype testing, and data reporting driving improvements.

The role emphasizes collaboration across manufacturing, electrical engineering, and product management to deliver integrated automotive solutions and advance technology.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of automotive engineering experience focusing on mechanical design.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAE software and strong thermodynamics, fluids and materials understanding.
• Experience with prototype development and physical testing methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop automotive mechanical components and systems with emphasis on performance and manufacturability.
• Run simulations using CAD/CAE tools to validate designs and predict performance.
• Plan and execute prototype testing, analyze results, and iterate designs.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, electrical engineering, and product management for integration.
• Research new technologies and materials for automotive innovation and document findings.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA)

CAE tools (ANSYS, Abaqus)

Job description

Our client seeks a talented and innovative Automotive Mechanical Engineer to join their research and development team, working between their facility in Richards Bay and remotely. This role focuses on the design, development, and testing of new automotive components and systems, contributing to the advancement of vehicle technology. You will engage in complex engineering challenges, from conceptualization to prototype validation, utilizing advanced simulation tools and hands‑on testing. The hybrid nature of this role allows for focused R&D work on-site while leveraging remote capabilities for analysis, collaboration, and reporting, fostering a balanced and productive work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop new automotive mechanical components and systems, considering performance, durability, and manufacturability.
• Conduct simulations and analysis using CAD/CAE software to validate designs and predict performance under various conditions.
• Plan and execute physical testing of prototypes, analyze test data, and iterate on designs based on results.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including manufacturing, electrical engineering, and product management, to ensure successful product integration.
• Research emerging technologies and materials to identify opportunities for innovation in automotive engineering.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations on design progress and findings.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in automotive engineering, with a strong focus on mechanical systems design.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) and CAE tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus).
• Solid understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, materials science, and mechanical vibrations.
• Experience with prototype development and physical testing methodologies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility between remote and on-site work.
• Access to state-of-the-art R&D facilities and equipment.
• Opportunities for professional growth and contributions to cutting‑edge automotive technology.
• Comprehensive health, retirement, and wellness benefits.