Lead Mechanical Engineer - Automotive Systems

Placements24; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Executive benefits package

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer for its Randburg, Gauteng facility. You will lead a team of engineers responsible for the design, development, and integration of advanced automotive mechanical systems for next-generation vehicles.

The role requires strong leadership, extensive experience in automotive engineering, and a track record of managing large projects from concept to production. You will work with cutting-edge materials and processes in a high-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive mechanical engineering experience, 3+ in leadership within automotive.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers on automotive systems.
• Oversee design from concept to production with validation.
• Plan projects, timelines, and resources for mechanical initiatives.
• Perform analyses and testing (FEA/CFD) to optimize durability and efficiency.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for system integration.
• Ensure compliance with ISO/SAE standards and regulatory requirements.
• Identify emerging technologies and manage supplier relations.
• Present findings and project status to senior management.
• Foster continuous improvement and technical excellence.

Skills

Automotive systems design

Vehicle dynamics

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA

Siemens NX

ANSYS

ABAQUS

Job description

About the Role

Join a prestigious automotive research and development firm as a Lead Mechanical Engineer in their state-of-the-art facility in Randburg, Gauteng. This critical leadership position focuses on the design, development, and integration of advanced mechanical systems for next-generation vehicles. You will be responsible for guiding a team of talented engineers, driving innovation, and ensuring the successful execution of complex projects from concept to production. This role demands exceptional technical expertise, strong leadership capabilities, and a deep understanding of automotive engineering principles. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in managing large-scale engineering projects and a passion for shaping the future of mobility. You will be instrumental in pushing the boundaries of automotive technology, working with cutting-edge materials and processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers in the design and development of automotive mechanical systems (e.g., powertrain, chassis, suspension, thermal management).
• Oversee the entire design process, from initial concept generation through to detailed design, prototyping, and validation.
• Develop and implement project plans, timelines, and resource allocation for mechanical engineering initiatives.
• Conduct rigorous performance analysis, simulations (FEA, CFD), and testing to optimize designs for durability, efficiency, and safety.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including electrical engineering, software development, and manufacturing to ensure seamless system integration.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant automotive industry standards (e.g., ISO, SAE) and regulatory requirements.
• Identify and evaluate emerging technologies and materials to enhance product performance and innovation.
• Manage supplier relationships and technical specifications for outsourced components.
• Present technical findings, project status, and design proposals to senior management and stakeholders.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence within the engineering team.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mechanical engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role within the automotive industry.
• Demonstrated expertise in automotive mechanical system design, analysis, and testing.
• Proficiency in industry-standard CAD software (e.g., CATIA, Siemens NX) and simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, ABAQUS).
• In-depth knowledge of vehicle dynamics, materials science, and manufacturing processes relevant to automotive production.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and motivational skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal abilities.
• Proven project management skills, including budgeting and resource planning.
• Experience working in a high-volume, fast-paced product development environment.
• Familiarity with automotive quality standards (e.g., IATF 16949).

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a comprehensive executive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement plan, and performance-based incentives.
• Opportunities for professional growth through advanced training, conferences, and leadership development programs are provided.
• You will work in a dynamic, cutting-edge environment with access to the latest automotive technologies.
• The role offers the chance to significantly influence the direction of automotive innovation.
• Enjoy a supportive team atmosphere and significant career advancement prospects within this leading Randburg-based automotive enterprise.