Lead Mechanical Engineer - Automotive Systems

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Health benefits

Professional development

Dynamic work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Mechanical Engineer to head the design and development of automotive mechanical systems in Centurion, Gauteng. You will lead a team through concept, design, prototyping, testing and production, ensuring technical excellence, timelines and budgets.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in mechanical engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership role, and strong CAD/CFD/FEA proficiency.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering
• 10+ years of engineering experience, with 3+ years in lead/supervisory roles
• Strong knowledge of automotive mechanical systems and design
• Proficiency in CAD and simulation tools (CATIA, NX, FEA, CFD)

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of engineers in automotive mechanical systems design and development.
• Oversee the product development lifecycle from concept to production and validation.
• Develop and manage project plans, resources, and budgets to ensure on-time delivery.
• Conduct advanced engineering analyses (FEA/CFD) and apply design standards and best practices.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver integrated system designs.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Team mentoring

Cross-functional collaboration

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, and a dynamic work environment in **Centurion, Gauteng**.