Lead Automotive Interior Design Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Performance-based bonuses

Comprehensive benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Automotive Interior Design Engineer in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, to head interior design initiatives from concept to production. You will shape ergonomics, materials, and HMI integration while aligning with brand identity.

The role demands a strong portfolio in automotive interiors, leadership to guide a design team, collaboration with engineering, marketing and manufacturing, and the ability to translate consumer trends into manufacturable solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or master's degree in Industrial or Transportation Design.
• Minimum 8 years of automotive interior design experience.
• Portfolio showcasing automotive interior design work.
• Proficiency in CAD (Alias, CATIA) and rendering tools (VRED, KeyShot).
• Strong understanding of ergonomics, human factors, and UX.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the interior design process from concept generation to final production.
• Develop innovative and user-centric interior design solutions emphasizing ergonomics, comfort, and aesthetics.
• Create detailed design proposals including sketches, renderings, 3D models, and prototypes.
• Collaborate with engineering, marketing, and manufacturing to ensure feasibility and cost-effectiveness.
• Select and specify interior materials, finishes, and colors considering quality and sustainability.
• Oversee integration of HMI components, lighting, and trim into interiors.
• Present concepts to senior management and stakeholders for approval.
• Stay abreast of design trends, technologies, and materials in the automotive sector.
• Mentor and guide junior design engineers and contribute to design team development.

Skills

Leadership

Portfolio development

Ergonomics & UX

Communication & mentoring

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Industrial Design/Transportation Design

Tools

Alias

CATIA

VRED

KeyShot

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished leader in automotive manufacturing, is seeking a creative and experienced Lead Automotive Interior Design Engineer to spearhead their interior design initiatives in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is crucial for defining the aesthetic and functional aspects of vehicle interiors, ensuring an exceptional user experience. You will lead the conceptualization, development, and execution of interior designs, from initial sketches to production-ready models, focusing on ergonomics, materials, and HMI (Human-Machine Interface) integration. The ideal candidate will possess a strong portfolio of automotive interior design, exceptional creativity, and a deep understanding of consumer trends and manufacturing feasibility. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of automotive interiors and leave a significant mark on our client's product line. We are looking for an inspiring leader who can guide a team and collaborate effectively across departments.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the interior design process, from concept generation to final production, ensuring alignment with brand identity and market trends.
• Develop innovative and user-centric interior design solutions that enhance ergonomics, comfort, and aesthetics.
• Create detailed design proposals, including sketches, renderings, 3D models, and physical prototypes.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, marketing, and manufacturing, to ensure design feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and manufacturability.
• Select and specify interior materials, finishes, and colors, considering quality, durability, sustainability, and cost.
• Oversee the integration of HMI components, lighting, and trim elements into the interior design.
• Present design concepts and proposals to senior management and stakeholders for review and approval.
• Stay abreast of emerging design trends, technologies, and materials in the automotive industry.
• Mentor and guide junior design engineers and contribute to the overall development of the design team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Industrial Design, Transportation Design, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in automotive interior design, with demonstrable leadership experience.
• Proficiency in industry-standard design software, including CAD (e.g., Alias, CATIA) and rendering tools (e.g., VRED, Keyshot).
• Strong portfolio showcasing innovative automotive interior design projects.
• Excellent understanding of ergonomics, human factors, and user experience principles.
• Knowledge of interior materials, finishes, and manufacturing processes.
• Exceptional creativity, artistic talent, and a keen eye for detail.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet demanding deadlines.
• Passion for automotive design and a deep understanding of consumer preferences.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits program that includes health, dental, and retirement plans.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development are abundant, with access to advanced design tools and training.
• The role is based in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal , offering a creative and stimulating work environment.
• We value work-life balance and provide generous paid time off, including annual leave and sick days.
• Our client is committed to fostering talent and providing a rewarding career path within the automotive design field.