Lead Automotive Design Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Cutting-edge tools

Leadership opportunities

Competitive salary

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Automotive Design Engineer to spearhead design from concept to production. You will guide a team of designers and engineers in crafting exterior and interior concepts, leveraging CATIA, Alias, and VRED to produce compelling visuals.

The role requires 8+ years in automotive design, strong leadership, and a portfolio that demonstrates innovative concepts. A hybrid work model and collaboration with cross-functional teams will define the daily rhythm in Stellenbosch.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Automotive Design, Industrial Design, or related field.
• 8+ years of automotive design experience with leadership track record.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM and rendering tools.
• Strong portfolio showcasing innovative automotive design concepts.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the automotive design process from concept to production-ready design.
• Direct and inspire a team of designers and engineers, fostering creativity and excellence.
• Develop and refine exterior and interior design concepts aligned with brand identity.
• Use CATIA, Alias, and VRED to create compelling design visualizations.
• Collaborate with engineering, marketing, and manufacturing to ensure feasibility.
• Present design proposals to senior management with clear rationale.
• Oversee prototypes and implement design adjustments as needed.
• Stay updated on trends, materials, and technologies for future projects.
• Ensure design activities meet timelines, budgets, and quality standards.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

CAD/CAM

3D modeling

Rendering tools

Portfolio development

Communication

Ergonomics

Education

Automotive Design degree

Industrial Design degree

Tools

CATIA

Alias

VRED

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished automotive manufacturer with a significant presence in Stellenbosch, Western Cape , is actively recruiting for a visionary Lead Automotive Design Engineer . This pivotal role offers the chance to shape the future of vehicle design, contributing to innovative and aesthetically compelling automotive projects. The successful candidate will lead a talented team of designers and engineers, driving creative concepts from initial ideation through to final production. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced professional to make a tangible impact on the automotive landscape from the picturesque region of Stellenbosch .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the automotive design process, from concept generation to production-ready design.
• Direct and inspire a team of automotive designers and engineers, fostering a culture of creativity and technical excellence.
• Develop and refine vehicle exterior and interior design concepts, ensuring they align with brand identity and market trends.
• Utilize advanced 3D modeling and rendering software (e.g., CATIA, Alias, VRED) to create compelling design visualizations.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, marketing, and manufacturing departments to ensure design feasibility and production viability.
• Present design proposals and concepts to senior management and stakeholders, effectively articulating design intent and rationale.
• Oversee the development of physical and digital prototypes, providing feedback and making necessary design adjustments.
• Stay abreast of emerging automotive design trends, materials, and technologies, integrating them into future projects.
• Ensure all design activities adhere to project timelines, budgets, and quality standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Automotive Design, Industrial Design, or a related field.
• Significant experience (8+ years) in automotive design, with a proven track record of leading design projects.
• Exceptional proficiency in industry-standard design software, including CAD/CAM and rendering tools.
• A strong portfolio showcasing innovative automotive design concepts and execution.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management capabilities.
• Excellent understanding of vehicle architecture, ergonomics, and manufacturing processes.
• Superb communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced, and deadline-driven environment.
• Residency or willingness to relocate within commuting distance of Stellenbosch .

Benefits

• An attractive annual salary package of R , reflecting your expertise and leadership.
• A hybrid work model offering flexibility between office-based and remote work.
• Opportunity to lead high-profile automotive design projects with a renowned manufacturer.
• Access to cutting-edge design tools and technologies.
• A stimulating work environment with a focus on innovation and professional growth.
• Contribution to the design direction of future vehicle models.