Lead Automotive Mechanical Engineer

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Vehicle leasing program

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 presents a Lead Automotive Mechanical Engineer opportunity in Cape Town. The client is a renowned automotive R&D firm offering a hybrid work model to balance on-site collaboration with remote responsibilities.

Candidates should have a strong track record in mechanical design, leadership, and testing of vehicle systems. The role emphasizes mentoring junior engineers, leading critical design projects, and contributing to advanced analyses such as FEA, CFD, and vibration studies to

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years in the automotive industry, with emphasis on mechanical design.
• Experience leading engineering projects and managing teams.
• Proficient in CAD/CAE software (Siemens NX, CATIA V5, ANSYS, ABAQUS).
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Hybrid work model with on-site collaboration and remote work.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and optimization of mechanical components and systems.
• Manage timelines, resources, and deliverables for vehicle development.
• Perform FEA, CFD, and vibration analyses to predict performance.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, electrical, and software teams.
• Develop testing plans for prototypes and production components.
• Maintain technical documentation including CAD models and validation reports.
• Mentor a team of engineers and foster continuous learning.
• Present findings and project status to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

CAD software

CAE tools

Mentoring

Data analysis

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Siemens NX

CATIA V5

ANSYS

ABAQUS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned automotive research and development firm, is looking for an experienced Lead Automotive Mechanical Engineer to join their innovative team in Cape Town . This hybrid role requires a blend of on-site collaboration and remote flexibility. You will be responsible for leading the design, development, and testing of critical automotive mechanical systems, including powertrain components, chassis, and vehicle structures. This is an exceptional opportunity to influence the future of automotive technology and work on projects that are shaping the industry. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of automotive engineering principles, a passion for innovation, and strong leadership capabilities. You will play a crucial role in mentoring junior engineers and driving technical excellence within the department.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and optimization of automotive mechanical components and systems, ensuring performance, durability, and safety standards are met.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and deliverables for mechanical engineering aspects of new vehicle development.
• Conduct advanced engineering analyses, including FEA, CFD, and vibration analysis, to predict and improve component behavior.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, electrical, and software teams to ensure seamless integration of mechanical systems.
• Develop and execute comprehensive testing plans for prototypes and production components, analyzing results and implementing design improvements.
• Oversee the creation and maintenance of all technical documentation, including CAD models, drawings, and validation reports.
• Mentor and guide a team of mechanical engineers, fostering a culture of technical expertise and continuous learning.
• Stay current with emerging automotive technologies, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Present technical findings and project status updates to senior management and stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
• At least 10 years of professional experience in the automotive industry, with a significant focus on mechanical design.
• Proven experience in leading engineering projects and managing teams.
• Expertise in CAD software (e.g., Siemens NX, CATIA V5) and CAE tools (e.g., ANSYS, ABAQUS).
• In-depth knowledge of automotive systems, including engine, transmission, suspension, and braking systems.
• Strong understanding of material properties, manufacturing processes, and validation techniques relevant to the automotive sector.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work model, balancing on-site collaboration with remote responsibilities.
• Strong analytical skills and a data-driven approach to design and problem-solving.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including an excellent base salary and performance bonuses. This hybrid role provides the flexibility of remote work combined with valuable in-office collaboration. Employees benefit from a comprehensive health insurance plan, retirement savings contributions, and a generous annual leave policy. Opportunities for professional development include advanced training programs, conference attendance, and support for further academic pursuits. The company fosters a dynamic and supportive work environment with access to cutting-edge technology and facilities. Additional perks include vehicle leasing programs and employee wellness initiatives.