Principal Mechanical Design Engineer (Automotive)

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive executive bonus

Private medical and life cover

Generous pension

Company car program

Global training opportunities

R&D facilities access

Relocation package

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Mechanical Design Engineer in Rustenburg to lead an advanced powertrain development team. You will set technical direction for engines, transmissions, and driveline components, mentoring engineers in a high-performance environment.

The role requires a PhD or Master's in Mechanical Engineering with 10+ years in automotive design, CAD and validation tools, and strong leadership. Expect global collaboration, innovation, and a competitive executive package.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in mechanical design with automotive powertrain focus.
• Proven leadership and ability to mentor engineers.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Familiarity with APQP/PPAP and automotive development cycles.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of complex mechanical systems for automotive powertrains, including engines, transmissions, and drivelines.
• Define technical strategies and roadmaps for mechanical component innovation.
• Conduct advanced engineering analyses (FEA, CFD, Multibody Dynamics) to optimize performance, durability, and NVH characteristics.
• Oversee the creation and validation of detailed mechanical designs and specifications.
• Collaborate with global engineering teams, suppliers, and manufacturing partners to ensure design feasibility and manufacturability.
• Mentor and guide a team of mechanical design engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and innovation.
• Stay current with emerging automotive technologies, materials, and manufacturing techniques.
• Present technical proposals, design reviews, and project status updates to senior leadership.
• Ensure compliance with global automotive standards and regulations.
• Troubleshoot complex mechanical issues and implement effective solutions.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned global automotive manufacturer with a significant presence in Rustenburg, is seeking an exceptional Principal Mechanical Design Engineer to lead their advanced powertrain development team. This senior position involves setting the technical direction for new automotive mechanical systems, pushing the boundaries of innovation in vehicle performance and efficiency. You will be at the forefront of designing and developing next-generation engine and drivetrain components, working within a high-performance culture in the North West province. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of automotive mechanical engineering, a passion for cutting-edge technology, and a proven ability to mentor and inspire a team of engineers. This is a rare chance to influence the future of automotive engineering at a principal level.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of complex mechanical systems for automotive powertrains, including engines, transmissions, and drivelines.
• Define technical strategies and roadmaps for mechanical component innovation.
• Conduct advanced engineering analyses (FEA, CFD, Multibody Dynamics) to optimize performance, durability, and NVH characteristics.
• Oversee the creation and validation of detailed mechanical designs and specifications.
• Collaborate with global engineering teams, suppliers, and manufacturing partners to ensure design feasibility and manufacturability.
• Mentor and guide a team of mechanical design engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and innovation.
• Stay current with emerging automotive technologies, materials, and manufacturing techniques.
• Present technical proposals, design reviews, and project status updates to senior leadership.
• Ensure compliance with global automotive standards and regulations.
• Troubleshoot complex mechanical issues and implement effective solutions.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in mechanical design, with a significant focus on automotive powertrain systems.
• Expertise in CAD (e.g., CATIA V5, Siemens NX) and advanced simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus, STAR-CCM+).
• In-depth knowledge of engine design, combustion, thermal management, and driveline components.
• Strong understanding of material science and manufacturing processes relevant to automotive applications.
• Proven leadership and team management experience.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication and presentation abilities.
• Familiarity with automotive development cycles and quality systems (e.g., APQP, PPAP).
• Passion for automotive technology and innovation.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and executive bonus structure.
• Comprehensive private medical insurance and life cover.
• Generous pension scheme.
• Company car program and fuel allowance.
• Extensive professional development and global training opportunities.
• Opportunity to work on award-winning vehicle platforms.
• Relocation package available for eligible candidates.
• Access to cutting-edge R&D facilities.