Lead Mechanical Engineer - Automotive Systems

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical & life insurance

Generous leave

Training & certifications

Company car & fuel

Relocation assistance

George location

Pension plan

Bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Mechanical Engineer to head the design and testing of automotive systems in George, Western Cape. You will supervise a team of engineers, drive technical excellence, and ensure robust, cost-efficient solutions for next-generation vehicles.

The ideal candidate brings 8+ years in automotive mechanical engineering, with leadership experience, strong CAD/CAE skills (Siemens NX, CATIA V5), and a proven track record delivering complex projects on time and within budget.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of 8 years of relevant mechanical engineering experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role within the automotive sector.
• Demonstrated expertise in automotive mechanical systems, including engine, transmission, suspension, and braking systems.
• Proficiency in advanced CAD software (e.g., Siemens NX, CATIA V5) and CAE tools for simulation and analysis.
• Strong knowledge of automotive standards (e.g., ISO/TS 16949) and product development lifecycle.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team management skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering complex engineering projects on time and within budget.
• Experience with DFMEA and DVP&R is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the mechanical design process for automotive systems, including powertrain, chassis, and body components.
• Direct and mentor a team of mechanical engineers, providing technical expertise and project oversight.
• Develop and implement robust testing protocols and validation procedures to ensure product performance and durability.
• Collaborate with supply chain and manufacturing teams to ensure designs are optimized for mass production and cost-efficiency.
• Conduct root cause analysis on field failures and implement corrective actions to improve product reliability.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, specifications, and presentations for management and clients.
• Champion the adoption of new technologies and design methodologies within the engineering department.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant automotive industry standards and regulations.
• Manage project budgets and timelines effectively for assigned mechanical engineering initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team management

Project oversight

DFMEA & DVP&R

CAD/CAE proficiency

ISO/TS 16949 knowledge

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Siemens NX

CATIA V5

CAE tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned leader in automotive component manufacturing, is actively seeking a highly motivated and experienced Lead Mechanical Engineer to spearhead their engineering efforts in George, Western Cape . This critical role involves overseeing the design, development, and testing of innovative mechanical systems for next-generation vehicles. You will be instrumental in guiding a team of talented engineers, driving technical excellence, and ensuring the delivery of high-performance, reliable automotive solutions. This position offers a significant opportunity to influence product direction and contribute to the future of mobility in a challenging and rewarding environment. The successful candidate will embody technical leadership and a deep understanding of automotive mechanical principles.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the mechanical design process for automotive systems, including powertrain, chassis, and body components.
• Direct and mentor a team of mechanical engineers, providing technical expertise and project oversight.
• Develop and implement robust testing protocols and validation procedures to ensure product performance and durability.
• Collaborate with supply chain and manufacturing teams to ensure designs are optimized for mass production and cost-efficiency.
• Conduct root cause analysis on field failures and implement corrective actions to improve product reliability.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, specifications, and presentations for management and clients.
• Champion the adoption of new technologies and design methodologies within the engineering department.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant automotive industry standards and regulations.
• Manage project budgets and timelines effectively for assigned mechanical engineering initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of 8 years of relevant mechanical engineering experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role within the automotive sector.
• Demonstrated expertise in automotive mechanical systems, including engine, transmission, suspension, and braking systems.
• Proficiency in advanced CAD software (e.g., Siemens NX, CATIA V5) and CAE tools for simulation and analysis.
• Strong knowledge of automotive standards (e.g., ISO/TS 16949) and product development lifecycle.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team management skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering complex engineering projects on time and within budget.
• Experience with DFMEA and DVP&R is essential.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary reflecting the seniority of the role.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and life insurance coverage.
• Generous annual leave and public holiday allocation.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional certifications.
• Company car scheme and fuel allowance.
• Relocation assistance available for successful candidates.
• A stimulating work environment in the beautiful coastal city of George, Western Cape .
• Pension fund contribution.
• Performance-based bonuses.