Automotive Performance Engineer

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental insurance

Retirement fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Automotive Performance Engineer in Centurion, Gauteng, to advance vehicle performance through design, testing, and optimization of components and systems. You will use advanced simulation tools and real-world testing to push performance boundaries.

Ideal candidates hold a mechanical or automotive engineering degree with 4+ years in performance engineering, familiar with engine dynamics, aerodynamics, and CAE tools, and able to communicate complex results clearly.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Automotive Engineering.
• Minimum 4 years of automotive performance engineering experience.
• Strong understanding of engines, vehicle dynamics, and aerodynamics.
• Proficiency with CAD/CAE tools and data acquisition systems.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test performance components and systems (exhaust, intake, suspension, ECU tuning).
• Use CAD/CAE tools for simulation and analysis (CFD, FEA).
• Conduct dyno and track testing to measure improvements.
• Analyze data to identify optimization opportunities.
• Collaborate with manufacturing for mass production feasibility.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations of findings.
• Troubleshoot performance issues and propose innovative solutions.
• Ensure designs meet safety, regulatory, and performance targets.
• Work with marketing to translate market needs into specs.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering

Vehicle dynamics

Aerodynamics

Analytical skills

Independent work

Technical writing

Communication skills

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical Eng.

Master's in Automotive Eng.

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

ANSYS

STAR-CCM+

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned innovator in the automotive aftermarket industry, is seeking a highly analytical and creative Automotive Performance Engineer to join their R&D department in Centurion, Gauteng . This role focuses on enhancing vehicle performance through the design, development, and testing of performance components and systems. You will be instrumental in pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering, working with advanced simulation tools and conducting real-world performance evaluations. This is an exciting opportunity for an engineer passionate about automotive dynamics, engine tuning, and aerodynamic optimization, contributing to high-impact projects. You will play a key role in developing bespoke solutions that elevate vehicle capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test new automotive performance components and systems (e.g., exhaust, intake, suspension, ECU tuning).
• Utilize CAD software for component design and CAE tools for simulation and analysis (e.g., CFD, FEA).
• Conduct dyno testing and track testing to measure and validate performance improvements.
• Analyze test data to identify areas for optimization and improvement.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and production teams to ensure designs are feasible for mass production.
• Research emerging technologies and trends in automotive performance engineering.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations on project findings and recommendations.
• Troubleshoot performance-related issues and develop innovative solutions.
• Ensure all designs meet safety, regulatory, and performance targets.
• Work closely with marketing and sales teams to understand market needs and translate them into product specifications.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years00 of experience in automotive performance engineering or a similar role.
• Strong understanding of internal combustion engines, vehicle dynamics, and aerodynamics.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) and CAE tools (e.g., ANSYS, STAR-CCM+).
• Experience with engine dynamometers and data acquisition systems.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong technical writing and communication skills.
• A passion for performance vehicles and motorsport is highly desirable.
• Valid driver's license.

Benefits

We offer a competitive salary package starting at R per annum , commensurate with experience, and excellent benefits including medical and dental insurance, a retirement fund, and ample opportunities for professional development and training in advanced automotive technologies. Our client provides a stimulating and collaborative work environment where innovation is encouraged, with potential for career advancement into leadership roles. You will have the chance to work on exciting, high-performance projects.