Automotive Powertrain Development Engineer

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Professional growth

Engineering tools access

Challenging work

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in Soweto, Gauteng, seeks an Automotive Powertrain Development Engineer to lead design, development and optimization of engines, transmissions and driveline components across vehicle programs.

You will perform performance analysis, simulations, and testing, collaborating with design, manufacturing and testing teams while staying current with electrification and alternative fuels.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in automotive powertrain design and development.
• Strong understanding of internal combustion engine, transmission, and driveline principles.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAE software for design and simulation (GT-SUITE, MATLAB/Simulink, ANSYS).
• Experience with dynamometer testing and data acquisition systems.
• Knowledge of emissions regulations and strategies for compliance.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Familiarity with electric and hybrid powertrain systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and validate powertrain components and systems (engine, transmission, driveline).
• Conduct performance analysis, simulation, and testing of powertrain hardware and software.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration and product quality.
• Develop and implement test plans for powertrain components and vehicles, ensuring compliance with performance and regulatory requirements.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to powertrain performance, durability, and emissions.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, documentation, and presentations for project reviews.
• Specify materials and manufacturing processes for powertrain components.
• Stay current with emerging powertrain technologies, including electrification and alternative fuels.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of powertrain design and development processes.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant automotive industry standards and regulations.

Skills

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Communication and teamwork

Adaptability to new powertrain tech

Education

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

Tools

CAD/CAE software (GT-SUITE, MATLAB/Simulink, ANSYS)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the automotive manufacturing sector, is seeking a talented Automotive Powertrain Development Engineer to join their innovative team in Soweto, Gauteng . This role is central to the design, development, and optimization of advanced powertrain systems, including engines, transmissions, and related components. You will contribute to enhancing performance, efficiency, and emissions compliance for a range of vehicle models. The ideal candidate possesses a strong mechanical engineering background with specialized knowledge in powertrain technology and a passion for automotive innovation. This is an exciting opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology and make a significant impact within a reputable organization operating in the vibrant industrial landscape of Gauteng . We are looking for a proactive and analytical engineer who is eager to drive progress in powertrain development.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and validate new powertrain components and systems (engine, transmission, driveline).
• Conduct performance analysis, simulation, and testing of powertrain hardware and software.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, and testing, to ensure seamless integration and product quality.
• Develop and implement test plans for powertrain components and vehicles, ensuring compliance with performance and regulatory requirements.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to powertrain performance, durability, and emissions.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, documentation, and presentations for project reviews.
• Specify materials and manufacturing processes for powertrain components.
• Stay current with emerging powertrain technologies, including electrification and alternative fuels.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of powertrain design and development processes.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant automotive industry standards and regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in automotive powertrain design and development.
• Strong understanding of internal combustion engine principles, transmission systems, and driveline technology.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAE software for design and simulation (e.g., GT-SUITE, MATLAB/Simulink, ANSYS).
• Experience with dynamometer testing and data acquisition systems.
• Knowledge of emissions regulations and strategies for compliance.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Familiarity with electric and hybrid powertrain systems is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
• Access to advanced engineering tools and facilities.
• A challenging and rewarding work environment.
• Paid time off and holidays.