Mechanical Engineer - Automotive Powertrain Development

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 850,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical benefits

Retirement plan

Growth opportunities

Hybrid work model

Leading facilities access

Paid time off

Stable employment

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct seeks a Mechanical Engineer to contribute to automotive powertrain development in East London, Eastern Cape. You will design, analyze, and test engine and transmission components, focusing on performance, efficiency, and emissions reduction in a hybrid work setup.

The role requires a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering and 4+ years in automotive powertrains, with CAD/CAE tools like CATIA, SolidWorks, ANSYS, and GT-Suite.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 4 years in mechanical design or development for automotive powertrains.
• Proficiency with CAD/CAe tools (CATIA/SolidWorks, ANSYS/GT-Suite).

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components for engines, transmissions, or powertrains using CAD software.
• Perform simulations and analyses (structural, thermal, fluid) to optimize performance.
• Run experimental testing and validation in-lab and on-vehicle.

Skills

Mechanical design

Powertrain development

CAD software

CAE tools

Thermodynamics

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA

SolidWorks

ANSYS

GT-Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, WhatJobs Direct, is seeking a dynamic Mechanical Engineer to contribute to automotive powertrain development in East London, Eastern Cape. This role involves the design, analysis, and testing of engine and transmission components, focusing on performance, efficiency, and emissions reduction. You will work with cutting-edge technologies in a fast-paced automotive R&D environment. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in mechanical engineering principles, particularly related to internal combustion engines or electric vehicle powertrains, and hands-on experience with CAD/CAE tools. This position offers a hybrid work model, allowing for essential collaboration and testing at the facility in East London, complemented by remote flexibility for data analysis and design work. Join us to shape the future of automotive mobility.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components for automotive engines, transmissions, or electric powertrains using CAD software.
• Perform detailed simulations and analyses, including structural, thermal, and fluid dynamics, to optimize component performance and durability.
• Conduct experimental testing and validation of powertrain components and systems, both in-lab and on-vehicle.
• Analyze test data, identify areas for improvement, and implement design modifications.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers, software developers, and manufacturing specialists.
• Ensure compliance with automotive industry standards, performance targets, and emissions regulations.
• Troubleshoot design and performance issues encountered during development and testing phases.
• Prepare technical documentation, reports, and presentations for project reviews.
• Research emerging powertrain technologies and materials for future applications.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in mechanical design or development, with a focus on automotive powertrains.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks) and experience with CAE tools (e.g., ANSYS, GT-SUITE).
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and mechanics of materials as applied to automotive systems.
• Experience with internal combustion engines, electric vehicle powertrains, or hybrid systems.
• Hands-on experience with engine/transmission testing or dynamometer operation is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment.
• Located in or willing to commute to East London, Eastern Cape, for hybrid work.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance incentives.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development within the automotive sector.
• Work on exciting projects at the forefront of automotive technology.
• Hybrid work model providing flexibility.
• Exposure to leading automotive design and testing facilities.
• Stable employment with a respected organization in East London.
• Generous paid time off.