Mechanical Design Engineer - Automotive Components

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 950,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer for a hybrid role in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will drive the design and development of automotive components from concept through validation, using SolidWorks/CATIA and FEA to ensure performance and manufacturability.

The role involves collaboration with R&D, manufacturing, testing and QA teams to deliver robust solutions. Ideal candidates have 5+ years in mechanical design within the automotive sector, strong analytical skills, and clear

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years of mechanical design experience, preferably in automotive.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks/CATIA) required.
• Experience with FEA tools for structural/thermal analysis advantageous.
• Knowledge of automotive manufacturing processes and standards.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop automotive mechanical components and systems, ensuring performance and safety requirements.
• Create detailed designs, assemblies and manufacturing drawings using CAD tools.
• Perform FEA for stress, thermal and vibration analysis.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing and QA throughout development.
• Prepare technical docs: design reports, specs, BOMs.
• Support prototype builds and validate designs.
• Ensure manufacturability and cost efficiency of designs.
• Stay updated on automotive industry trends and best practices.
• Troubleshoot design issues and propose solutions.
• Participate in design reviews and continuous improvement.

Skills

3D CAD

SolidWorks

CATIA

FEA

Automotive standards

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

FEA software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading Tier 1 automotive supplier, is seeking a talented Mechanical Design Engineer to join their product development team based in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This role focuses on the design and development of innovative automotive components, contributing to the next generation of vehicles. You will be involved in the entire product lifecycle, from concept generation and detailed design using advanced CAD tools to prototype development and validation. The ideal candidate possesses a strong foundation in mechanical engineering principles, experience with automotive industry standards, and a keen eye for detail. This hybrid position offers the opportunity to work on cutting‑edge automotive technology within a collaborative and forward‑thinking environment, balancing focused individual work with team collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop automotive mechanical components and systems, ensuring they meet performance, safety, and regulatory requirements.
• Utilize advanced 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) to create detailed designs, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings.
• Perform engineering analyses, including Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for stress, thermal, and vibration assessments.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including R&D, manufacturing, testing, and quality assurance, throughout the product development process.
• Prepare technical documentation, including design reports, specifications, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Support prototype builds and conduct validation testing, analyzing results to refine designs.
• Ensure designs are optimized for manufacturability, assembly, and cost‑effectiveness.
• Stay current with automotive industry trends, technologies, and best practices.
• Troubleshoot design‑related issues and propose effective solutions.
• Participate in design reviews and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in mechanical design, preferably within the automotive industry.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) is essential.
• Experience with FEA tools for structural and thermal analysis.
• Understanding of automotive manufacturing processes and materials.
• Knowledge of automotive industry standards (e.g., ISO/TS 16949, APQP) is advantageous.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing remote and in‑office responsibilities.
• Detail‑oriented with a commitment to quality.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and performance bonuses. The hybrid work model provides flexibility, and the role is based at our modern facility in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . Opportunities for professional development and career growth within the automotive sector are readily available. Join a dynamic team contributing to the future of mobility. We value innovation, collaboration, and employee well‑being, offering a supportive environment to excel in your engineering career. This role provides excellent exposure to automotive component development.