Lead Mechanical Engineer - Automotive

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive bonus program

Top-tier medical aid

Retirement fund

Life insurance

Career advancement

Relocation assistance

Access to cutting-edge automotive tech

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer with automotive specialization to join a cutting-edge R&D facility in Bloemfontein. You will guide a team of engineers, set technical direction, and drive complex automotive projects from concept through validation.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in automotive mechanical engineering, strong leadership, and deep expertise in design, powertrain, chassis, or vehicle dynamics.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years in automotive mechanical engineering with 3+ years in leadership.
• Expertise in automotive design, powertrain, chassis, or vehicle dynamics.
• Proficient with CAD/CAE tools and simulation methods.
• Strong understanding of automotive manufacturing and supply chain dynamics.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and strategic planning.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of mechanical engineers in designing automotive components and systems.
• Define and drive the technical strategy for key automotive projects.
• Oversee design, simulation (FEA, CFD), and validation of powertrain, chassis, and body systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (product planning, manufacturing, testing).
• Mentor and develop team members to foster innovation and high performance.
• Ensure designs comply with industry standards and safety requirements.

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

FEA

CFD

CAD/CAE software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished Lead Mechanical Engineer with a specialization in the automotive sector to join their advanced R&D facility in Bloemfontein . This leadership role will guide a team of engineers in the development of innovative mechanical systems for next-generation vehicles. You will be responsible for setting technical direction, mentoring your team, and ensuring the successful execution of complex automotive engineering projects. The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in automotive design, a strong understanding of vehicle dynamics, and exceptional leadership capabilities. This is a significant opportunity to influence the future of automotive engineering in the Free State .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of mechanical engineers in the design and development of automotive components and systems.
• Define and drive the technical strategy for key automotive projects, ensuring alignment with company goals.
• Oversee the design, simulation (FEA, CFD) , and validation of powertrain, chassis, and body systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product planning, manufacturing, and testing departments.
• Mentor and develop team members, fostering a culture of innovation and high performance.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant industry standards, regulations, and safety requirements.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in automotive mechanical engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Deep expertise in automotive design, powertrain, chassis, or vehicle dynamics.
• Proven experience with advanced CAD/CAE tools and simulation methodologies.
• Strong understanding of automotive manufacturing processes and supply chain dynamics.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and strategic planning skills.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and executive bonus program.
• Comprehensive benefits including top-tier medical aid, retirement fund, and life insurance.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement and leadership development.
• Access to cutting-edge automotive technology and testing facilities in Bloemfontein .
• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.
• A dynamic and challenging work environment focused on automotive innovation.