Automotive Performance Engineer

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Pension scheme

Professional development

State-of-the-art testing facilities

Employee discounts

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Automotive Performance Engineer in Gauteng, SA. The role combines on-site collaboration in Tembisa with remote flexibility, focusing on optimizing engine performance, suspension, and aerodynamics.

You will model and validate designs using MATLAB/Simulink, ANSYS, and Star-CCM+, analyze data, and report findings. Requires 5+ years in performance engineering and a relevant degree. A hybrid environment supports work-life balance.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in automotive performance engineering or a similar role.
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering or related.
• Proficiency with engine management systems, data acquisition and performance tuning.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement performance enhancements for engines, suspension, and aerodynamics.
• Conduct rigorous testing and data analysis on prototypes using dynamometers and test tracks.
• Utilize CFD/FEA tools to model performance and predict characteristics.
• Collaborate with design, manufacturing and testing teams for seamless integration.
• Troubleshoot and resolve performance-related issues during testing and validation.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations on results and recommendations.
• Stay updated on advancements in automotive tech and regulatory requirements.
• Contribute to development of new testing methodologies and equipment.

Skills

Analytical skills

Team collaboration

Communication

Project management

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering / Automotive Engineering

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

ANSYS

Star-CCM+

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in automotive engineering and performance enhancement, is looking for a talented Automotive Performance Engineer to join their innovative team based in Tembisa, Gauteng. This hybrid role offers the perfect blend of on-site collaboration and remote flexibility, allowing you to contribute to groundbreaking projects while maintaining a balanced lifestyle. You will be instrumental in designing, testing, and optimizing vehicle performance systems, pushing the boundaries of speed, efficiency, and handling. This position demands a creative thinker with a rigorous analytical approach and a deep passion for automotive dynamics. The ideal candidate thrives in a challenging environment, possesses strong project management skills, and is adept at translating theoretical concepts into tangible, high-performing automotive solutions. You will work closely with a dedicated team of engineers, designers, and technicians, contributing to the entire lifecycle of performance-focused vehicle components and systems. We pride ourselves on fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, where every team member's contribution is valued and essential to our collective success. This is an exceptional chance to make a significant impact in the automotive industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement innovative solutions for vehicle performance enhancement, including engine tuning, suspension optimization, and aerodynamic improvements.
• Conduct rigorous testing and data analysis of prototype components and systems, both on dynamometers and on test tracks.
• Utilize advanced simulation software (e.g., CFD, FEA) to model and predict performance characteristics.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, and testing, to ensure seamless integration of performance solutions.
• Troubleshoot and resolve performance-related issues encountered during testing and validation phases.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and presentations on testing results, analysis, and recommendations.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in automotive technology, performance tuning techniques, and regulatory requirements.
• Contribute to the development of new testing methodologies and equipment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in automotive performance engineering or a similar role.
• Proven experience with engine management systems, data acquisition, and performance tuning.
• Proficiency in using simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, ANSYS, or Star-CCM+.
• Strong understanding of vehicle dynamics, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics.
• Excellent analytical skills and the ability to interpret complex datasets.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
• Experience with motorsport or high-performance vehicle development is a plus.
• Familiarity with hybrid or electric vehicle performance characteristics is advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance package.
• Pension scheme contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training.
• Access to state-of-the-art testing facilities and equipment.
• Employee discounts on company products.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.