Lead Mechanical Engineer - Automotive Systems

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

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package

Bonuses

Health benefits

Professional development

Hybrid work Centurion

Job summary

Placements24 in Centurion, Gauteng, seeks a Lead Mechanical Engineer to head design and development of automotive systems. You will lead a team from concept through production, ensuring technical excellence, timely delivery, and budget adherence.

The role requires a Master's in Mechanical Engineering, 10+ years' experience, including 3+ in a lead position, CAD (CATIA/Siemens NX) and FEA/CFD proficiency, and a collaborative, hybrid work approach.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering is required.
• 10+ years of relevant engineering experience.
• At least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Extensive experience in automotive mechanical systems design.
• Proficiency in CATIA or Siemens NX and simulation tools (FEA/CFD).
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes and materials.
• Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers in automotive design and development.
• Oversee the full product development lifecycle from concept to production.
• Develop and maintain project plans, manage resources, and ensure on-time delivery within budget.
• Perform advanced engineering analyses (FEA, CFD) as required.
• Collaborate with electrical, software, and manufacturing teams for integrated system design.
• Establish and enforce design standards and quality procedures.
• Present proposals and updates to senior management and stakeholders.
• Stay informed on automotive technologies, trends, and regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Team mentoring

Communication

Automotive knowledge

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA

Siemens NX

FEA

CFD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge technology firm specializing in automotive solutions, is seeking an experienced Lead Mechanical Engineer to spearhead their design and development efforts in Centurion, Gauteng. This pivotal role involves leading a team of engineers in the creation of innovative mechanical systems for next-generation vehicles. You will be responsible for driving projects from concept through to production, ensuring technical excellence, adherence to timelines, and budget management. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership capabilities, a deep understanding of automotive mechanical principles, and a proven track record of successfully delivering complex engineering projects. This position requires a blend of technical acumen, strategic thinking, and the ability to foster a collaborative and high-performing team environment. You will play a crucial role in shaping the future of automotive engineering within our organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers in the design and development of automotive mechanical systems and components.
• Oversee the entire product development lifecycle, from conceptualization and feasibility studies to detailed design, prototyping, testing, and validation.
• Develop and maintain project plans, manage resources, and ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget.
• Conduct advanced engineering analysis, including Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for stress, thermal, and vibration, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) where applicable.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineering, software development, and manufacturing, to ensure integrated system design.
• Establish and enforce design standards, best practices, and quality control procedures.
• Present design proposals and project updates to senior management and stakeholders.
• Stay informed about the latest automotive technologies, industry trends, and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of relevant engineering experience, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Extensive experience in automotive mechanical systems design (e.g., powertrain, chassis, thermal management, structural components).
• Proficiency in advanced CAD software (e.g., CATIA, Siemens NX) and simulation tools (FEA, CFD).
• Strong understanding of automotive manufacturing processes and materials.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing on-site collaboration with remote work flexibility.
• A passion for innovation and a commitment to driving engineering excellence.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package
• performance-based bonuses
• extensive health and wellness benefits
• professional development opportunities
• a dynamic work environment in Centurion, Gauteng