Mechanical Engineer - Automotive Powertrain Development

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Access to R&D facilities

Professional development opportunities

Dental and vision insurance

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly motivated Mechanical Engineer to join their Powertrain Development team in Sandton, Gauteng. The role focuses on design, analysis, and testing of powertrain components to improve performance and emissions.

You will work with advanced tools like CATIA, ANSYS, and Star-CCM+ to predict performance, run experiments, and refine designs, collaborating with electrical, software, and vehicle integration specialists.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• 4+ years of experience in mechanical design and analysis, preferably automotive.
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and materials science.
• Experience with experimental testing and data acquisition systems.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and analyze mechanical components and systems for automotive powertrains (e.g., engines, transmissions, exhaust systems).
• Utilize advanced simulation tools (FEA, CFD) to predict performance, identify potential issues, and optimize designs.
• Plan and execute experimental testing programs to validate designs and evaluate performance characteristics.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers, software developers, and vehicle integration specialists.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical engineering challenges related to powertrain development.
• Document design rationale, test results, and technical recommendations thoroughly.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in powertrain technology, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Contribute to the definition of product requirements and technical specifications.
• Ensure designs meet all relevant performance, durability, and regulatory standards.

Skills

Mechanical intuition

Analytical thinking

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA

SolidWorks

ANSYS

Star-CCM+

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned automotive research and development company, is seeking a highly motivated Mechanical Engineer to join their advanced Powertrain Development team in Sandton, Gauteng. This role is integral to the design, analysis, and testing of next-generation powertrain components and systems, focusing on performance, efficiency, and emissions reduction. You will work with cutting-edge technologies and collaborate with a team of experts to push the boundaries of automotive engineering. The ideal candidate possesses a strong theoretical background in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and mechanical design, coupled with hands-on experience in a relevant R&D environment. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the future of automotive mobility within a dynamic and innovative company.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and analyze mechanical components and systems for automotive powertrains (e.g., engines, transmissions, exhaust systems).
• Utilize advanced simulation tools (FEA, CFD) to predict performance, identify potential issues, and optimize designs.
• Plan and execute experimental testing programs to validate designs and evaluate performance characteristics.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers, software developers, and vehicle integration specialists.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical engineering challenges related to powertrain development.
• Document design rationale, test results, and technical recommendations thoroughly.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in powertrain technology, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Contribute to the definition of product requirements and technical specifications.
• Ensure designs meet all relevant performance, durability, and regulatory standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in mechanical design and analysis, preferably within the automotive industry.
• Strong understanding of internal combustion engines, hybrid powertrains, or electric vehicle powertrains.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks) and advanced simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, Star-CCM+).
• Knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and material science.
• Experience with experimental testing and data acquisition systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Familiarity with automotive industry standards and development processes.
• Must be able to work on-site in Sandton, Gauteng.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge automotive technologies.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan with company contributions.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Professional development opportunities, including training and conferences.
• Access to state-of-the-art R&D facilities and equipment.
• A dynamic and collaborative research environment.