Principal Chassis Engineer: Lead Vehicle Dynamics & Design

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, vision benefits

Retirement plan

Professional development

Access to cutting-edge R&D facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Automotive Chassis Engineer for our client in Pretoria, Gauteng. You will lead design, development and integration of advanced chassis systems, including suspension, steering and braking, from concept to production.

The role requires deep expertise in vehicle dynamics, structural analysis and leadership to mentor junior engineers while delivering high-performance, safe vehicle platforms.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering.
• Minimum 12 years in automotive chassis engineering, in lead roles.
• Deep knowledge of vehicle dynamics, suspension and braking tech.
• Proficient CAD/CAE tools: CATIA/NX and ANSYS/Adams.
• Experience with chassis control systems and concept-to-launch leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization, design, and development of advanced chassis systems.
• Define chassis architecture and component specifications.
• Conduct vehicle dynamics analysis and simulations to optimize ride and handling.
• Utilize FEA/CAE tools to ensure structural integrity and lightweight design.
• Oversee testing and data analysis to validate performance.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and supply chain for cost-effective designs.
• Mentor junior and mid-level chassis engineers.
• Stay updated on active and intelligent suspension technologies.

Skills

Vehicle dynamics

Suspension design

Braking tech

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering

Tools

CATIA

NX

ANSYS

Adams

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Automotive Chassis Engineer for our client in Pretoria, Gauteng. You will lead design, development and integration of advanced chassis systems, including suspension, steering and braking, from concept to production.

The role requires deep expertise in vehicle dynamics, structural analysis and leadership to mentor junior engineers while delivering high-performance, safe vehicle platforms.