Lead Mechanical Engineer - Automotive Components

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Annual leave

International travel

Relocation assistance

Company car

Job summary

Placements24, a prominent Tier 1 supplier in the automotive sector, seeks a Lead Mechanical Engineer for its Centurion, Gauteng facility. The role demands directing a team through design, development, and validation of advanced automotive components, from concept through mass production.

The ideal candidate will bring a master's in mechanical engineering, 10+ years in design with 3+ years in leadership, and strong CATIA/NX/CAE proficiency.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• Minimum 10 years in mechanical design and product development with 3+ years in leadership in automotive.
• Proven ability to launch complex automotive products.
• Strong knowledge of CAD/CAE tools and automotive standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of mechanical engineers in design, development, and validation of automotive components.
• Oversee the full product development lifecycle from concept to mass production.
• Develop and implement engineering strategies aligned with company goals and market needs.
• Ensure designs meet automotive performance, safety, and regulatory requirements (ISO/TS 16949).
• Utilize CAD/CAE tools for design, simulation, and optimization.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, QA, and sales.
• Manage project budgets, timelines, and resources.
• Provide technical mentorship and guidance to team members.
• Conduct root cause analysis for design issues and implement solutions.
• Stay updated on automotive trends and competitor activities.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Strategic thinking

Mentorship

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA V5/V6

Siemens NX

ANSYS

ABAQUS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent Tier 1 supplier in the automotive industry, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Mechanical Engineer to spearhead their design and development efforts in Centurion, Gauteng. This critical role will involve leading a team of talented engineers in the creation and refinement of innovative automotive components and systems. You will be at the forefront of technological advancements, driving projects from concept through to mass production, ensuring our client maintains its leadership position in a highly competitive market. The ideal candidate possesses not only deep technical expertise but also strong leadership qualities and a strategic mindset. This is an on-site position, requiring full-time commitment and presence at our Centurion facility. You will have the opportunity to mentor junior engineers, foster a culture of innovation, and make significant contributions to the next generation of automotive technologies. We are looking for an individual who is passionate about automotive engineering and driven to deliver exceptional results. This role offers a direct path for influencing product direction and team growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of mechanical engineers in the design, development, and validation of automotive components.
• Oversee the entire product development lifecycle, from concept generation and feasibility studies to final product launch.
• Develop and implement robust engineering strategies aligned with company objectives and market demands.
• Ensure all designs meet stringent automotive performance, safety, and regulatory requirements (e.g., ISO/TS 16949).
• Utilize advanced CAD/CAE tools for design, simulation (stress, thermal, vibration), and optimization.
• Collaborate with cross-functional departments including R&D, manufacturing, quality assurance, and sales.
• Manage project budgets, timelines, and resource allocation effectively.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to team members, fostering their professional growth.
• Conduct root cause analysis for design-related issues and implement effective solutions.
• Stay current with automotive industry trends, technologies, and competitor activities.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in mechanical design and product development, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role within the automotive sector.
• Extensive experience with CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5/V6, Siemens NX) and CAE tools (e.g., ANSYS, ABAQUS).
• In-depth knowledge of automotive component design, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Proven track record of successfully launching complex automotive products.
• Strong understanding of automotive standards, regulations, and quality systems.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects and lead teams effectively.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Centurion, Gauteng, South Africa.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement fund benefits.
• Generous annual leave and paid public holidays.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and advanced engineering resources.
• Dynamic and collaborative work environment with opportunities for career progression.
• Company car scheme or allowance.
• Relocation assistance package for suitable candidates.
• On-site wellness programs and facilities.