Mechanical Project Engineer - Automotive Components

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonuses

Medical and dental insurance

Pension fund contributions

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Mechanical Project Engineer for our client in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. The role oversees mechanical engineering projects from concept through launch, coordinating design, manufacturing, quality, and testing to ensure on-time, within-budget delivery.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in mechanical engineering with a focus on project management in the automotive supply sector, strong CAD skills (SolidWorks/CATIA), and experience with APQP/PPAP and IATF 16949 compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in mechanical engineering, with at least 2 years in project management.
• Experience in automotive industry, preferably with component suppliers.
• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA).
• Familiarity with APQP and PPAP.
• Strong PM skills in planning, scheduling, and risk management.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.

Responsibilities

• Manage full lifecycle of mechanical engineering projects from concept to launch for automotive components.
• Define project scope, objectives, and deliverables with stakeholders.
• Develop detailed project plans including schedules, resources, and budgets.
• Coordinate cross-functional project teams including design, manufacturing, quality, and testing.
• Oversee mechanical design activities using CAD to meet specs and regulations.
• Monitor progress, identify risks and issues, and implement proactive solutions.
• Facilitate meetings, provide status updates, and maintain project documentation.
• Ensure adherence to automotive standards (IATF 16949) and QMS.
• Liaise with customers and suppliers on technical and project matters.
• Drive continuous improvement in project execution processes.

Skills

Mechanical design

Project management

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

MS Project

APQP/PPAP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned Tier 1 supplier in the automotive industry, is seeking a dynamic Mechanical Project Engineer to join their growing team in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape . This role will oversee the successful execution of mechanical engineering projects related to the development and production of automotive components. You will manage project timelines, resources, and budgets, ensuring deliverables meet stringent quality and performance standards. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in mechanical design, project management, and a passion for the automotive sector. This hybrid role combines essential on-site collaboration with flexibility for remote work, offering a balanced approach to project delivery. You will play a key part in bringing innovative automotive solutions to market.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full lifecycle of mechanical engineering projects, from concept to launch for automotive components.
• Define project scope, objectives, and deliverables in collaboration with stakeholders.
• Develop detailed project plans, including schedules, resource allocation, and budget management.
• Coordinate and lead cross-functional project teams, including design, manufacturing, quality, and testing.
• Oversee mechanical design activities using CAD software, ensuring designs meet specifications and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor project progress, identify potential risks and issues, and implement proactive solutions.
• Facilitate project meetings, provide regular status updates, and maintain comprehensive project documentation.
• Ensure adherence to automotive industry standards (e.g., IATF 16949) and quality management systems.
• Liaise with customers and suppliers on technical and project-related matters.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within project execution processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in mechanical engineering, with at least 2 years in project management.
• Proven experience within the automotive industry, preferably with component suppliers.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical design principles and CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA).
• Familiarity with automotive manufacturing processes and quality standards (e.g., APQP, PPAP).
• Excellent project management skills, including planning, scheduling, and risk management.
• Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project).
• Comfortable working in a hybrid model, balancing office-based and remote tasks.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for annual bonuses based on project success.
• Comprehensive medical and dental insurance plans.
• Pension fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and project management certifications.
• Exposure to cutting-edge automotive technology and innovation.
• A dynamic and collaborative hybrid work environment in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape .
• Paid vacation and leave benefits.
• Employee assistance program.