Lead Automotive Design Engineer

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng, seeks a Lead Automotive Design Engineer to shape exterior and interior concepts, translating sketches into producible components. You will lead a team of designers and engineers in a hybrid on-site/remote environment.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years in automotive design, strong CAD skills (CATIA, Alias, SolidWorks) and rendering proficiency, with a passion for innovation and manufacturing feasibility.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years of automotive design experience with a strong portfolio.
• Proficient in CATIA, Alias or SolidWorks, and rendering tools.
• Strong communication and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead exterior and interior design from concept to production readiness.
• Oversee 3D modeling and high-fidelity renderings.
• Collaborate with styling, engineering and manufacturing teams.
• Develop design timelines and manage milestones.
• Mentor junior designers and engineers.
• Ensure compliance with safety, aerodynamic and manufacturing constraints.

Skills

Leadership

CAD proficiency

Team management

Rendering software

Education

Bachelor's/Master's in Industrial Design or Automotive/Mechanical Eng

Tools

CATIA

Alias

SolidWorks

VRED

Keyshot

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned automotive design house, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Automotive Design Engineer to shape the aesthetics and functionality of future vehicle concepts. Based in the vibrant hub of Sandton, Gauteng , this role requires a blend of creative flair and technical prowess to translate design sketches into producible vehicle components. You will lead a team of talented designers and engineers, ensuring that aesthetic aspirations are balanced with engineering feasibility, manufacturing constraints, and performance requirements. This position is critical in defining the visual identity and user experience of our client's upcoming automotive models in Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

Lead the design and development of exterior and interior automotive components, from concept ideation to production readiness. Oversee the creation of 3D models and high-fidelity renderings using advanced CAD software. Collaborate closely with styling teams to ensure design integrity and feasibility. Work with engineering and manufacturing teams to integrate design elements seamlessly into the vehicle architecture. Develop and manage design timelines, ensuring project milestones are met. Mentor and guide junior design engineers, fostering a culture of creativity and technical excellence. Conduct design reviews and present concepts to senior management and stakeholders. Ensure designs comply with safety regulations, aerodynamic requirements, and manufacturing capabilities. Stay abreast of the latest design trends, materials, and manufacturing technologies in the automotive industry. Manage supplier relationships related to design tooling and prototyping.

Requirements

Requirements Bachelor's or Master's degree in Industrial Design, Automotive Design, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. Minimum of 8 years of experience in automotive design, with a strong portfolio showcasing creative and technical design solutions. Proficiency in industry-standard CAD software such as CATIA, Alias, or SolidWorks. Experience with rendering software (e.g., VRED, Keyshot). Strong understanding of automotive manufacturing processes and materials. Proven experience leading design projects and managing engineering teams. Excellent aesthetic sense, creativity, and attention to detail. Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing collaborative on-site design sessions with remote review and documentation. Passion for automotive design and innovation.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, provident fund, and performance-based bonuses. This hybrid role provides flexibility while ensuring critical on-site collaboration for design reviews and team engagement in Sandton, Gauteng . You will have opportunities for professional growth, attending design forums and industry events. Join a team that is shaping the future of automotive aesthetics and functionality, working on exciting projects that will define the next generation of vehicles.