Lead Mechanical Engineer - Automotive Powertrain Development

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Mechanical Engineer to head a remote Powertrain Development team. You will steer design, validation, and integration of powertrain components for next‑gen mobility, ensuring performance, efficiency and durability.

The role requires 10+ years in automotive powertrain design, strong leadership, and advanced CAD/FEA capabilities. A fully remote, high‑impact position with global collaboration and cutting‑edge technology.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• At least 10 years in mechanical design within automotive powertrain.
• Proven leadership of engineering teams and launching complex projects.
• Expertise in CAD and advanced simulation (FEA/CFD).

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design and development of powertrain components (engines, transmissions, motors, battery systems).
• Oversee design lifecycle from concept to validation and testing.
• Direct and mentor a remote team of engineers.
• Perform stress, thermal, vibration, and fatigue analyses with advanced tools.
• Collaborate with electrical, control, and software teams for integration.
• Define specs, targets, and validation plans for powertrain systems.
• Keep current with automotive tech trends and supplier innovations.
• Manage remote project timelines, resources, and budgets.
• Ensure conformance with automotive standards and safety requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement for efficiency and reliability.

Skills

Powertrain design

CAD CATIA

FEA CFD

Team leadership

Remote collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA

SolidWorks

FEA/CFD software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a pioneering automotive manufacturer at the forefront of developing next-generation powertrain systems, including advanced internal combustion engines and electric vehicle powertrains. We are seeking a highly experienced Lead Mechanical Engineer to join our fully remote Powertrain Development team. This role is critical in driving innovation and excellence in the mechanical design and integration of powertrain components and systems. You will lead a team of engineers in conceptualizing, designing, and validating cutting-edge powertrain solutions, ensuring they meet performance, efficiency, and durability targets. This is a prime opportunity for a seasoned mechanical engineer to shape the future of automotive mobility from a remote work setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of critical powertrain components such as engines, transmissions, electric motors, and battery systems.
• Oversee the entire design lifecycle, from concept generation and feasibility studies to detailed design, simulation, prototyping, and testing.
• Direct and mentor a team of mechanical engineers, fostering a collaborative and innovative R&D environment.
• Conduct rigorous mechanical analysis, including stress, thermal, vibration, and fatigue analysis, using advanced simulation tools.
• Collaborate closely with electrical engineers, control systems specialists, and software developers to ensure seamless integration of powertrain systems.
• Define technical specifications, performance targets, and validation plans for powertrain components and systems.
• Stay abreast of emerging automotive technologies, industry trends, and competitor advancements in powertrain development.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets effectively in a remote team setting.
• Ensure all designs comply with automotive industry standards, emissions regulations, and safety requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance powertrain efficiency, performance, and reliability.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related automotive engineering discipline.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mechanical design and development within the automotive industry, with a strong focus on powertrain systems.
• Proven track record of leading engineering teams and successfully launching complex powertrain projects.
• Expertise in CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks) and advanced simulation tools (FEA, CFD).
• Deep understanding of internal combustion engine technology, electric vehicle powertrains, hybrid systems, transmissions, and battery thermal management.
• Strong knowledge of automotive materials, manufacturing processes, and validation techniques.
• Excellent leadership, project management, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fully remote work environment, demonstrating strong self-discipline and remote collaboration skills.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance. A generous retirement savings plan is available. Our client is committed to employee growth, providing access to online professional development resources, training programs, and opportunities to attend virtual industry conferences. You will have the flexibility to work from your preferred location while contributing to groundbreaking automotive innovation. Join a company that is leading the transition to sustainable mobility and values its remote workforce.