Mechanical Systems Engineer - Automotive

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 720,000 - 980,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonuses

Hybrid work

R&D labs

Professional development

Cutting-edge tech

Medical aid

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Mechanical Systems Engineer for its Durban automotive division. You will design, integrate, and test mechanical systems in vehicles, balancing on-site collaboration with remote work in a hybrid model.

Responsibilities include powertrain, chassis, and thermal management design, plus simulations and system validation. Strong CAD skills (CATIA, NX) and MATLAB/Simulink are essential, with 4+ years in automotive design a key plus.

Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 4+ years in automotive mechanical design and systems engineering.
• Proficiency with CAD and simulation tools (CATIA/Siemens NX, MATLAB/Simulink).
• Strong knowledge of vehicle dynamics and materials.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical systems across powertrain, chassis, and thermal management.
• Perform kinematic/dynamic analysis and stress/thermal simulations.
• Integrate subsystems into vehicle architecture for production readiness.
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams on validation and component selection.
• Develop and execute test plans; analyze results and propose design improvements.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for stakeholders.

Skills

Mechanical systems design

Automotive engineering

Thermal management

MATLAB/Simulink

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA

Siemens NX

MATLAB/Simulink

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a skilled Mechanical Systems Engineer to join their automotive division, based in Durban. This role offers a hybrid working model, blending essential on-site collaboration with the flexibility of remote work. You will be responsible for the design, integration, and testing of mechanical systems within vehicles, ensuring optimal performance, safety, and efficiency. This position requires a proactive engineer who can work effectively both independently and as part of a team, contributing to the development of next-generation automotive technologies. You will be involved in critical stages of the vehicle lifecycle, from conceptual design to final validation, contributing to a leading automotive brand.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical systems, including powertrain, chassis, and thermal management components.
• Perform detailed kinematic and dynamic analysis, as well as stress and thermal simulations for critical components.
• Integrate mechanical subsystems into the overall vehicle architecture, ensuring seamless functionality.
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams on component selection, validation, and production readiness.
• Develop and execute test plans for component and system validation, analyzing results and recommending design improvements.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for project stakeholders, outlining design progress and challenges.

Requirements

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 4+ years of experience in automotive mechanical design and systems engineering.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., CATIA, Siemens NX) and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink).
• Strong understanding of vehicle dynamics, thermodynamics, and material properties.
• Experience with hybrid and electric vehicle systems is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a methodical approach to engineering challenges.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary with performance-based bonuses.
• Hybrid work environment offering flexibility and work-life balance.
• Access to state-of-the-art testing facilities and R&D labs.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training.
• Be part of an innovative team developing cutting-edge automotive technology.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.