Automotive Test Engineer (Performance & Durability)

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Training & development

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Automotive Test Engineer in Soweto, Gauteng to drive performance and durability testing of vehicles and components. You will plan, execute, and analyze tests on prototypes and production vehicles, ensuring reliability under varied operating conditions.

You will collaborate with design and engineering teams to interpret results and propose improvements. The role demands hands-on experience with testing equipment, data loggers, and analysis software, plus strong

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field.
• Hands-on experience in automotive testing, especially performance and durability testing.
• Strong analytical and communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute vehicle and component level tests for performance, durability, and reliability.
• Develop test procedures and test plans based on product requirements and industry standards.
• Operate and maintain testing equipment and data acquisition systems.
• Analyze test data, interpret results and generate reports with findings and recommendations.
• Identify failure modes and work with design teams to implement corrective actions.
• Ensure safety protocols and best practices during testing activities.
• Collaborate with engineering departments to align test objectives with product development goals.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of testing methodologies and equipment.

Skills

Testing equipment

Data analysis

Vehicle dynamics

Report writing

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering

Tools

Data loggers

DAQ systems

Acquisition software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a progressive automotive manufacturer, is looking for a dedicated Automotive Test Engineer specializing in Performance and Durability to join their dynamic team in Soweto, Gauteng . This role is vital for ensuring that vehicles and their components meet rigorous standards for performance, reliability, and longevity under various operating conditions. You will be responsible for planning, executing, and analyzing tests on prototypes and production vehicles. We are seeking an engineer with a strong analytical aptitude, hands‑on experience with testing equipment, and a commitment to quality. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of high‑quality automotive products within a growing company. The role is based in Soweto, Gauteng , providing a strategic location within the automotive industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and execute vehicle and component level tests for performance, durability, and reliability.
• Develop comprehensive test procedures and test plans based on product requirements and industry standards.
• Operate and maintain specialized testing equipment and data acquisition systems.
• Analyze test data, interpret results, and generate detailed reports outlining findings and recommendations.
• Identify failure modes and work with design and engineering teams to implement corrective actions.
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols and best practices during all testing activities.
• Collaborate with other engineering departments to ensure test objectives align with product development goals.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of testing methodologies and equipment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in automotive testing, specifically in performance and durability testing.
• Hands‑on experience with vehicle testing equipment, data loggers, and analysis software.
• Solid understanding of vehicle dynamics, powertrain, and chassis systems.
• Familiarity with automotive industry testing standards (e.g., SAE, ISO).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent report writing and communication abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and manage multiple tasks.
• Willingness to travel occasionally and work flexible hours as needed for testing schedules.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package including health insurance and retirement contributions.
• Opportunities for training and professional development in automotive testing.
• Generous paid time off.
• A supportive and challenging work environment in Soweto, Gauteng .
• The chance to contribute to the validation of innovative automotive technologies.