Mechanical Design Engineer - Automotive Components

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical insurance

Generous leave

Professional development

Cutting-edge automotive tech

Hybrid work model

Collaborative environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to develop automotive components. You will design, analyze, and test parts and sub-assemblies, applying CAD/CAE tools to meet vehicle performance standards.

The role offers hybrid work with in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility. A strong background in automotive engineering, FEA, and drawing standards is required to drive innovation and support production-ready designs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in mechanical design, preferably automotive.
• Proficiency in CAD software such as SolidWorks, CATIA or similar.
• Experience with FEA software (e.g., ANSYS, ABAQUS).
• Understanding of manufacturing processes (stamping, casting, injection molding).
• Familiarity with automotive quality standards and validation processes.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components for automotive applications using 3D CAD software.
• Perform stress, thermal, and vibration analysis using FEA to ensure design integrity and performance.
• Create detailed engineering drawings and specifications for manufacturing, adhering to ASME Y14.5.
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to optimize production feasibility and cost-effectiveness.
• Develop and execute test plans for prototypes and production parts, analyze results and modify designs.
• Participate in design reviews, providing technical insights to cross-functional teams.
• Troubleshoot and resolve design-related issues during product development and validation.
• Maintain documentation of design changes, specifications, and testing procedures.
• Stay informed about trends and technologies in automotive mechanical design.

Skills

Mechanical design

Stress/thermal analysis

CAD software

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

ANSYS

ABAQUS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic Tier 1 supplier within the automotive industry, is actively seeking a talented Mechanical Design Engineer to contribute to the development of innovative automotive components. This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, combining the benefits of in-office collaboration with the flexibility of remote work. You will be instrumental in designing, analyzing, and testing mechanical parts and sub-assemblies that meet the rigorous demands of modern vehicles. The ideal candidate possesses a strong understanding of automotive engineering principles, proficiency in CAD/CAE tools, and a passion for automotive technology. You will work within a collaborative team environment, contributing to projects that drive advancements in vehicle performance and efficiency. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated engineer to grow their career in a fast-paced and challenging sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components for automotive applications using 3D CAD software.
• Perform stress, thermal, and vibration analysis using FEA to ensure design integrity and performance.
• Create detailed engineering drawings and specifications for manufacturing, adhering to industry standards (e.g., ASME Y14.5).
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to ensure designs are optimized for production feasibility and cost-effectiveness.
• Develop and execute test plans for prototypes and production parts, analyzing results and recommending design modifications.
• Participate in design reviews, providing technical insights and addressing concerns from cross-functional teams.
• Troubleshoot and resolve design-related issues during product development and validation phases.
• Maintain accurate documentation of design changes, specifications, and testing procedures.
• Stay informed about the latest trends and technologies in automotive mechanical design.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in mechanical design, preferably within the automotive sector.
• Proficiency in CAD software such as SolidWorks, CATIA, or similar.
• Experience with FEA software (e.g., ANSYS, ABAQUS) for structural and thermal analysis.
• Understanding of automotive component manufacturing processes (e.g., stamping, casting, injection molding).
• Familiarity with automotive quality standards and validation processes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Willingness to work a hybrid schedule, balancing remote and in-office presence.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous leave policies and company holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Exposure to cutting-edge automotive technology.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.
• Collaborative and innovative work environment.