Mechanical Design Engineer - Automotive Chassis Systems

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 480,000 - 720,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Paid time off

Growth & training

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer in Bloemfontein to drive the full lifecycle design of automotive chassis components. You will work with simulation, manufacturing, and vehicle integration teams to deliver durable, high-performance solutions.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering and at least 4 years of mechanical design experience, with CATIA V5 and SolidWorks proficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering is required.
• Minimum 4 years in mechanical design, preferably automotive chassis.
• Proficiency in CATIA V5 and SolidWorks; basic CAE knowledge.
• Familiarity with materials, manufacturing processes and ISO/TS 16949.
• Strong understanding of suspension, steering and braking systems.

Responsibilities

• Design mechanical components and sub-assemblies for automotive chassis systems using CAD.
• Conduct stress, fatigue, and vibration analyses to validate designs.
• Create 3D models, 2D drawings, and BOMs for production.
• Collaborate with simulation teams to refine designs per CAE results.
• Ensure producibility and cost-effectiveness with manufacturing teams.
• Support prototypes, testing and validation; address design issues.
• Contribute to design reviews and maintain design documentation.

Skills

Mechanical design

Problem-solving

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA V5

SolidWorks

CAE basics

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic automotive component supplier, is seeking a talented Mechanical Design Engineer to contribute to their innovative chassis systems development in Bloemfontein, Free State. This role involves the full lifecycle design of critical chassis components, from concept generation to production release. You will collaborate closely with simulation engineers, manufacturing teams, and vehicle integration specialists to deliver high-quality, performance-driven solutions. We are looking for an engineer with a strong foundation in mechanical design principles, proficiency in CAD/CAE tools, and a passion for automotive engineering. The successful candidate will play a key role in developing next-generation chassis technologies, ensuring durability, safety, and optimal performance. This position offers an excellent opportunity to grow your career within the automotive sector in Bloemfontein.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and sub-assemblies for automotive chassis systems using advanced CAD software.
• Perform engineering analysis, including stress, fatigue, and vibration analysis, to validate design integrity.
• Create detailed 3D models, 2D drawings, and Bill of Materials (BOMs) for component production.
• Collaborate with simulation teams to refine designs based on CAE results and performance targets.
• Work closely with manufacturing engineers to ensure designs are producible and cost-effective.
• Support prototype builds, testing, and validation activities, addressing any design issues.
• Contribute to design reviews and ensure compliance with automotive standards and customer requirements.
• Maintain accurate design documentation and revision control.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in mechanical design, preferably in the automotive industry, focusing on chassis components.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5, SolidWorks) and basic understanding of CAE tools.
• Knowledge of automotive materials, manufacturing processes, and relevant industry standards (e.g., ISO/TS 16949).
• Strong understanding of mechanical principles related to suspension, steering, and braking systems.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, collaborating both in-person and remotely.
• Experience with FMEA and DFM principles is a plus.

Benefits

• competitive salary
• medical aid
• retirement fund
• paid time off
• Opportunities for professional growth and training are available.
• This hybrid role provides flexibility, combining time in our Bloemfontein office with remote work options.