Lead Mechanical Engineer - Automotive

Placements24; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation

Premium healthcare

Life insurance

Retirement savings

R&D facilities access

International travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Benoni is seeking a highly experienced Lead Mechanical Engineer with an automotive specialization to join our R&D team. You will spearhead design initiatives for next-generation components and systems, driving innovation from concept to production.

You will guide a team of engineers, ensure technical excellence, and collaborate with manufacturing and quality teams to deliver cutting-edge automotive solutions while advancing your career in a forward-thinking environment.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering required.
• 10+ years of automotive mechanical design experience.
• Proven track record leading engineering teams.
• Expertise in automotive component design, materials, and manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development and validation of automotive components.
• Mentor and manage a team of mechanical engineers.
• Oversee design reviews per IATF 16949 standards.
• Collaborate with electrical, software, and product teams.
• Develop simulation and testing strategies to ensure performance.
• Identify opportunities for new technology and design improvements.

Skills

Team leadership

Mechanical design

CAD/CAE tools

Vehicle dynamics

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA

ANSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced Lead Mechanical Engineer with a specialization in the automotive sector to join their R&D team in Benoni . This pivotal role involves leading design initiatives for next-generation automotive components and systems, driving innovation from concept to production. You will be responsible for guiding a team of engineers, ensuring technical excellence, and collaborating with manufacturing and quality departments to bring cutting-edge automotive solutions to market. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape the future of automotive engineering.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and validation of automotive mechanical components and systems.
• Manage a team of mechanical engineers, providing technical direction, mentorship, and performance feedback.
• Oversee design reviews and ensure adherence to automotive industry standards (e.g., IATF 16949).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers, software developers, and product managers.
• Develop and implement advanced simulation and testing strategies to ensure product performance and durability.
• Drive innovation and identify opportunities for new technologies and design improvements in the automotive field.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in automotive mechanical design and development.
• Proven experience in leading engineering teams and managing complex projects.
• Expertise in automotive component design , materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Proficiency in advanced CAD and CAE tools (e.g., CATIA, ANSYS).
• Strong understanding of vehicle dynamics, powertrain, or chassis systems.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package, including significant bonus potential.
• Comprehensive benefits including premium healthcare, life insurance, and retirement savings.
• Access to state-of-the-art automotive R&D facilities in Benoni .
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development.
• A culture that fosters innovation, collaboration, and technological leadership.