Lead Mechanical Engineer - Automotive

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Flexible hours

Health insurance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Lead Mechanical Engineer to drive automotive product development in a fully remote role. You will set the technical direction for advanced mechanical systems and guide a distributed team of engineers from concept through production.

This leadership position requires over 10 years in automotive design, strong CAD/CAE and vehicle dynamics skills, and the ability to collaborate across electrical, software and systems groups in a virtual environment.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years in automotive mechanical design and development, with 3+ years in lead/supervisory role.
• Expertise in automotive systems, vehicle dynamics, and structural analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of complex mechanical systems for automotive applications.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of mechanical engineers.
• Oversee creation and validation of 3D models, simulations, and prototypes.

Skills

Automotive systems

Vehicle dynamics

Structural analysis

CAD/CAE tools

Simulation software

Distributed teams

Strategic thinking

Communication

Decision making

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CAD/CAE

Simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a seasoned and visionary Lead Mechanical Engineer to spearhead their automotive product development initiatives. This is a fully remote, high-impact role where you will guide a team of engineers in the design and implementation of advanced mechanical systems for next-generation vehicles. You will be responsible for setting technical direction, ensuring design integrity, and driving innovation from concept through to production. This position is ideal for an experienced leader who thrives in a collaborative, virtual environment and is passionate about shaping the future of automotive engineering and technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of complex mechanical systems for automotive applications, including powertrain, chassis, and body structures.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of mechanical engineers, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Oversee the creation and validation of 3D models , simulations, and prototypes, ensuring adherence to stringent automotive standards.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams (electrical, software, systems) and external suppliers in a remote setting .
• Drive innovation by researching and implementing new materials, manufacturing processes, and design methodologies.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets to ensure successful project delivery.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in automotive mechanical design and development, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Expertise in automotive systems , vehicle dynamics, and structural analysis.
• Proficiency in advanced CAD/CAE tools and simulation software.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate distributed engineering teams effectively.
• Excellent strategic thinking, communication, and decision-making skills.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and significant bonus potential.
• Remote work opportunities with flexible hours.
• Comprehensive health, life, and disability insurance.
• Generous stock options and long-term incentive plans.
• Professional development budget for conferences, training, and certifications.
• Opportunity to work on groundbreaking automotive technology.