Mechanical Design Engineer - Automotive Systems

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 750,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical and retirement benefits

Hybrid work model

Paid annual leave

Career advancement

Job summary

Placements24 in East London, South Africa, is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to design automotive components using CATIA/SolidWorks in a hybrid role blending home and on-site work.

You will perform analyses, create 3D models and BOMs, support manufacturing, and contribute to continuous improvement while aligning with IATF 16949 standards. A Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering and 3–5 years' experience are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering required.
• 3-5 years of mechanical design experience in automotive components.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD and CAE tools.
• Familiarity with IATF 16949 quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and subsystems for automotive applications using CAD software.
• Create detailed 3D models, 2D drawings, and BOMs.
• Perform engineering calculations and simulations (FEA, thermal analysis).
• Collaborate with manufacturing and QA to ensure manufacturability and DFMA.
• Develop and execute test procedures for prototypes and production parts.
• Analyze test results and implement design improvements.
• Stay current with automotive trends and regulatory requirements.
• Provide technical support to production and field service teams.
• Maintain comprehensive design documentation.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA

SolidWorks

CAE tools

Job description

About the Role Our client, a key supplier to the automotive manufacturing sector, is seeking a skilled Mechanical Design Engineer to join their team in **East London**. This hybrid role allows for a blend of focused work from home and essential collaboration at their facility in **Eastern Cape**. You will be instrumental in the design and development of mechanical systems and components for automotive applications, ensuring they meet stringent performance, safety, and quality standards. The role involves detailed CAD work, engineering analysis, prototyping, and close liaison with manufacturing and testing departments. The ideal candidate has a solid understanding of automotive engineering principles and is adept at translating complex requirements into practical, innovative designs. You will contribute to the continuous improvement of existing products and the development of new automotive solutions. We are looking for a dedicated engineer eager to make an impact in the automotive supply chain.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and subsystems for automotive applications using CAD software.
• Create detailed 3D models, 2D drawings, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Perform engineering calculations and simulations (FEA, thermal analysis) to validate designs.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and quality assurance teams to ensure design for manufacturability and assembly (DFM/DFA).
• Develop and execute test procedures for prototypes and production parts.
• Analyze test results, identify potential issues, and implement design improvements.
• Stay current with automotive industry trends, technologies, and regulatory requirements.
• Provide technical support to production and field service teams.
• Maintain comprehensive design documentation and engineering records.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in mechanical design, with a strong focus on automotive components or systems.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks).
• Experience with CAE tools for stress analysis, thermal simulation, or kinematics.
• Good understanding of automotive systems, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Familiarity with automotive quality standards (e.g., IATF 16949).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities, adaptable to a hybrid work environment.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet project deadlines.
• Passion for the automotive industry and continuous improvement.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-related bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth and further training.
• Exposure to the latest automotive technologies and manufacturing processes.
• Stable and supportive work environment.
• Paid annual leave.
• Potential for career advancement within the organization.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.