Lead Mechanical Engineer (Automotive)

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance bonuses

International travel opportunities

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer in Mahikeng, North West to head automotive component design. You will guide a team through concept, detail, prototyping and validation, ensuring quality and reliability across systems.

Requires a Master's in Mechanical Engineering with 10+ years in automotive design and at least 3 years in leadership. Proficiency in CATIA V5, Siemens NX and major simulation tools is essential for success.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• At least 10+ years in mechanical design and engineering.
• Minimum 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role in automotive.
• Proficiency with CATIA V5, Siemens NX and simulation tools.
• Strong communication and project management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers in design and development.
• Oversee design lifecycle from concept to testing and validation.
• Perform structural, thermal, and vibration analyses using simulation tools.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, quality assurance and supply chain.
• Ensure compliance with automotive standards and customer specs.

Skills

Leadership

Mechanical design

CAD software

Simulation tools

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA V5

Siemens NX

ANSYS Workbench

Abaqus

Job description

About the Role

An exciting opportunity exists for a Lead Mechanical Engineer to spearhead innovative automotive component design within a renowned manufacturing company based in Mahikeng, North West. Our client is at the forefront of developing high-performance and sustainable automotive solutions. In this critical role, you will lead a team of talented engineers, guiding them through the design, development, and validation processes for a range of automotive systems. You will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards of engineering quality, performance, and reliability are met. This position offers the chance to make a significant impact on the future of automotive technology, working with advanced materials and cutting-edge manufacturing techniques in Mahikeng.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers in the design and development of automotive components and systems.
• Oversee the entire design lifecycle, from concept generation and feasibility studies to detailed design, prototyping, and testing.
• Conduct advanced engineering analyses, including structural, thermal, and vibration analysis, using state-of-the-art simulation tools.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, manufacturing, quality assurance, and supply chain, to ensure seamless product integration.
• Drive innovation by exploring new materials, technologies, and design approaches to enhance product performance and efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with automotive industry standards (e.g., ISO/TS 16949) and customer specifications.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets effectively for assigned design initiatives.
• Review and approve technical documentation, drawings, and specifications prepared by the team.
• Champion best practices in mechanical design and engineering methodologies within the department.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in mechanical design and engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role within the automotive sector.
• Deep understanding of automotive systems, including powertrain, chassis, or body structures.
• Proficiency in advanced CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5, Siemens NX) and simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS Workbench, Abaqus).
• Strong knowledge of automotive materials, manufacturing processes, and quality standards.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to motivate and guide engineering teams.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic thinking capabilities.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with internal and external stakeholders in Mahikeng.
• Eligibility to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, a generous provident fund, performance bonuses, and opportunities for international travel and professional development.
• You will work in a state-of-the-art facility in Mahikeng, contributing to cutting-edge automotive projects.
• We provide a dynamic work environment that encourages innovation, collaboration, and career advancement.
• This includes ample paid time off and access to advanced training programs.