Lead Mechanical Engineer - Automotive Components

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Life insurance and disability benefits

Pension fund contribution

Training and professional development

Hybrid work model

Paid annual leave

Sick leave and company holidays

Career advancement opportunities

Team events and collaborative work

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Lead Mechanical Engineer to head the design and development of next‑generation automotive components in George, Western Cape. You will steer a high‑performing team, guiding projects from concept through production with a focus on quality and efficiency.

You will collaborate across R&D, manufacturing, and supply chain, translating complex requirements into high‑performance parts while championing DFM/DFA and innovative materials.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or closely related field.
• 10+ years’ experience in mechanical engineering with 5+ years in leadership in automotive.
• Proven leadership of engineering teams and projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers in automotive design and development.
• Oversee full product development lifecycle from concept to production launch.
• Develop advanced mechanical designs using CAD/CAE tools and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Conduct stress, thermal, and vibration analyses to optimize performance.
• Collaborate with powertrain, chassis, electronics, and manufacturing teams.
• Manage projects, timelines, budgets, and resources.
• Identify new materials and processes to improve cost and performance.
• Maintain relationships with suppliers and external partners.
• Prepare technical reports and present reviews to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Team management

Communication

Project management

Problem-solving

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA

Siemens NX

ANSYS

Abaqus

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively searching for a visionary Lead Mechanical Engineer to spearhead the design and development of next-generation automotive components in George, Western Cape . This pivotal role demands a strategic thinker with extensive expertise in mechanical engineering principles, coupled with a strong understanding of the automotive industry's demands for innovation and efficiency. You will lead a team of talented engineers, driving projects from conceptualization through to production, ensuring the highest standards of quality and performance. The position involves significant collaboration with R&D, manufacturing, and supply chain teams, requiring excellent leadership and communication skills. This is a unique opportunity to make a substantial impact on the future of automotive technology, working within a company committed to sustainable practices and cutting-edge solutions. You will be instrumental in shaping the direction of our client's product roadmap and fostering a culture of engineering excellence. Your leadership will be key to translating complex requirements into tangible, high-performance automotive parts. The successful candidate will embrace challenges and drive innovation in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers in the design and development of automotive components.
• Oversee the entire product development lifecycle, from initial concept and feasibility studies to detailed design, prototyping, testing, and production launch.
• Develop and implement advanced mechanical designs using state-of-the-art CAD/CAE tools, ensuring compliance with automotive standards and regulations.
• Conduct rigorous analysis, including stress, thermal, and vibration analysis, to optimize component performance and durability.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including powertrain, chassis, electronics, and manufacturing departments, to ensure seamless integration of components.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively to meet project goals and deadlines.
• Drive innovation by identifying and evaluating new materials, manufacturing processes, and technologies relevant to the automotive sector.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and external partners to ensure component quality and cost-effectiveness.
• Champion best practices in design for manufacturability (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA).
• Prepare and present technical reports, design reviews, and project status updates to senior management.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in mechanical engineering, with at least 5 years in a leadership or senior engineering role within the automotive industry.
• Demonstrated experience in the design of automotive powertrain, chassis, or related systems.
• Expertise in CAD software (e.g., CATIA, Siemens NX) and CAE tools for simulation and analysis (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus).
• In-depth knowledge of automotive materials, manufacturing processes, and industry standards (e.g., ISO/TS 16949).
• Proven leadership capabilities with a track record of successfully managing engineering teams and projects.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience with hybrid and electric vehicle technology is highly desirable.
• Willingness to work a hybrid schedule, balancing remote work with essential on-site collaboration.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience, including a substantial annual salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Employees are provided with comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage, along with life insurance and disability benefits.
• A generous pension fund contribution is also part of the package.
• The company invests in employee growth through extensive training programs, professional development opportunities, and support for further education.
• This role offers a hybrid work model, providing flexibility to balance work and personal life.
• Additional benefits include paid annual leave, sick leave, and company holidays.
• Opportunities for career advancement within a growing and innovative organization are abundant.
• Regular team events and a collaborative work environment foster a strong sense of community.