Automotive Mechanical Engineer

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 950,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting an Automotive Mechanical Engineer in Vereeniging, Gauteng. The role focuses on design, development, and testing of automotive components and systems, leveraging CAD/CAE tools to enhance performance and reliability.

You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team from concept to production, perform simulations, validate designs through prototyping and testing, and contribute to design reviews and compliance with industry standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in automotive mechanical design and development.
• Proficiency with 3D CAD software and CAE tools (FEA/CFD).

Responsibilities

• Design and analyze mechanical components for automotive applications using CAD software.
• Perform simulations (FEA/CFD) to predict performance and durability.
• Develop prototypes and conduct physical testing to validate designs.
• Collaborate with manufacturing to ensure designs are producible.
• Support design reviews and documentation.

Skills

CAD software

FEA

CFD

Automotive design

Materials science

Thermodynamics

Teamwork

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

AutoCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent automotive manufacturing and R&D firm in **Vereeniging, Gauteng**, is seeking a talented and innovative Automotive Mechanical Engineer. This role is integral to the design, development, and testing of new automotive components and systems. You will work on cutting-edge projects, contributing to the performance, efficiency, and reliability of vehicles. The ideal candidate possesses a strong foundation in mechanical engineering principles, a passion for automotive technology, and experience with CAD/CAE tools. You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of engineers to bring innovative automotive solutions from concept to production. This is an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of automotive engineering, working in a facility that fosters innovation and professional growth. Your expertise will directly impact the quality and advancement of our client's automotive products.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and analyze mechanical components and systems for automotive applications using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA).
• Perform simulations and analyses (e.g., FEA, CFD) to predict component performance, durability, and thermal characteristics.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and production teams to ensure designs are feasible for mass production.
• Develop prototypes and conduct physical testing to validate designs and performance specifications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical issues identified during development, testing, or production phases.
• Contribute to the development of technical specifications, design documentation, and reports.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automotive mechanical engineering and technologies.
• Work closely with electrical engineers and software developers to ensure integrated system performance.
• Participate in design reviews and provide constructive feedback.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant industry standards and regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in automotive mechanical design and development.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, AutoCAD).
• Experience with CAE tools for Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).
• Strong understanding of material science, thermodynamics, and mechanics of materials.
• Knowledge of automotive manufacturing processes and DFM (Design for Manufacturability).
• Ability to conduct and interpret results from mechanical testing and simulations.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and pension.
• Opportunities for professional development and further education.
• Exposure to innovative automotive technologies and projects.
• A collaborative and forward-thinking work environment.
• Potential for career advancement into senior engineering or management roles.