Automotive Performance Engineer

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 650,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Hybrid work schedule

Growth opportunities

Upington facility

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape, is seeking an Automotive Performance Engineer to design, develop and test performance enhancements for a range of vehicles. You will work on engines, suspension, aerodynamics, and drivetrain to optimize power, handling and efficiency.

You will collaborate with fabrication teams, perform dyno tests, tune ECU maps, and maintain rigorous testing records while ensuring regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Automotive or Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum of 5 years of automotive performance engineering, tuning, or motorsport.
• Strong understanding of engine performance, thermodynamics, and ECU tuning.
• Proficiency with dynamometers and data acquisition systems.
• Knowledge of vehicle dynamics and aerodynamic principles.
• Experience with fabrication and modification of automotive components.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and meticulous testing.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Willingness to work hybrid schedule based in Upington.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement performance modifications for engines, suspension, braking, and aerodynamic systems.
• Conduct dyno testing and data acquisition to measure and analyze vehicle performance parameters.
• Tune engine management systems (ECU remapping) to optimize power output, fuel efficiency, and emissions.
• Collaborate with fabrication specialists and technicians to build and install performance components.
• Perform vehicle dynamics analysis and develop solutions to improve handling, stability, and ride comfort.
• Research and evaluate new performance technologies and aftermarket parts for potential integration.
• Troubleshoot performance issues and develop effective solutions.
• Maintain detailed records of modifications, testing procedures, and results.
• Stay current with industry trends and best practices in automotive performance engineering.
• Ensure all modifications comply with relevant regulations and standards, where applicable, at our Upington facility.

Skills

Vehicle dynamics knowledge

ECU tuning principles

Dyno testing experience

Fabrication proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in Automotive Engineering or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Dynamometers

Data acquisition systems

Diagnostics tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a specialist in high-performance automotive tuning and modification, is seeking an innovative Automotive Performance Engineer to join their team in Upington, Northern Cape. This role involves designing, developing, and testing performance enhancements for a variety of vehicles. You will work with engine tuning, suspension systems, aerodynamics, and drivetrain components to optimize vehicle performance and driving dynamics. The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical understanding of vehicle dynamics, engine performance, and fabrication techniques, coupled with practical, hands‑on experience. Join a passionate company that is dedicated to pushing the limits of automotive performance and offers a dynamic work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement performance modifications for engines, suspension, braking, and aerodynamic systems.


• Conduct dyno testing and data acquisition to measure and analyze vehicle performance parameters.


• Tune engine management systems (ECU remapping) to optimize power output, fuel efficiency, and emissions.


• Collaborate with fabrication specialists and technicians to build and install performance components.


• Perform vehicle dynamics analysis and develop solutions to improve handling, stability, and ride comfort.


• Research and evaluate new performance technologies and aftermarket parts for potential integration.


• Troubleshoot performance issues and develop effective solutions.


• Maintain detailed records of modifications, testing procedures, and results.


• Stay current with industry trends and best practices in automotive performance engineering.


• Ensure all modifications comply with relevant regulations and standards, where applicable, at our Upington facility.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Automotive Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.


• Minimum of 5 years of experience in automotive performance engineering, tuning, or motorsport.


• Strong understanding of engine performance, thermodynamics, and ECU tuning principles.


• Proficiency with dynamometers, data acquisition systems, and diagnostic tools.


• Knowledge of vehicle dynamics, suspension design, and aerodynamic principles.


• Experience with fabrication and modification of automotive components is highly advantageous.


• Excellent problem-solving skills and a meticulous approach to testing and development.


• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.


• A passion for automotive performance and a keen eye for detail.


• Willingness to work a hybrid schedule, involving both on-site engineering and remote analysis/documentation, based in Upington.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and opportunities for professional growth.


• Employees benefit from working with cutting‑edge performance equipment and a team of enthusiasts.


• The company culture fosters innovation and a shared passion for automotive excellence.


• Opportunities to work on diverse and exciting performance projects are plentiful.


• Join our client's specialized team in Upington and elevate your career in performance engineering.