Principal Mechanical Engineer - Automotive Components

Placements24; Upington; Presencial; ZAR 1 800 000 - 2 600 000; Tempo integral

Vantagens oferecidas por esta oferta de emprego

Executive bonuses

Private healthcare

Retirement plan with employer match

Professional training & conferences

Relocation assistance

International assignments

Company vehicle or allowance

Resumo da oferta

Placements24 seeks a Principal Mechanical Engineer for its Upington R&D center to lead design and development of next-gen automotive systems.

The role requires deep automotive expertise, leadership, and the ability to drive complex programs from concept to production.

Qualificações

• PhD or MSc in Mechanical/Automotive Eng required.
• 12+ years in automotive component design and development.
• Proven leadership of complex engineering projects from concept to production.
• Expert in CAD/CAE tools such as NX/CATIA and ANSYS/Abaqus
• Knowledge of automotive materials and manufacturing processes.

Responsabilidades

• Lead design, analysis, and validation of mechanical components for automotive use.
• Develop innovative design concepts to address engineering challenges.
• Use CAD/CAE tools for modeling, simulation, and optimization.
• Provide technical guidance to engineers and technicians.
• Collaborate with product management, manufacturing, and quality teams.
• Define technical requirements and testing procedures.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Stay updated with automotive technologies and industry practices.
• Manage supplier collaborations to meet standards.
• Contribute to IP through patents and disclosures.

Conhecimentos

CAD software

Leadership

FEA/CFD

Mechanical design

Automotive engineering

International collaboration

Formação académica

PhD or MSc in Mechanical/Automotive Eng

Ferramentas

Siemens NX

CATIA

ANSYS

Abaqus

Descrição da oferta de emprego

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized innovator in automotive component technology, is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer for their advanced research and development center located in **Upington, Northern Cape**. This is a pivotal role for an experienced engineer who will drive the design and development of next-generation automotive mechanical systems. You will be at the forefront of innovation, working on complex projects that require deep technical expertise and a strategic vision. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in automotive engineering, exceptional problem-solving skills, and the ability to lead technical initiatives. Join our client in **Upington** and play a key role in shaping the future of automotive engineering, contributing to groundbreaking advancements that enhance performance, safety, and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, analysis, and validation of complex mechanical components and systems for automotive applications, focusing on performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Develop innovative design concepts and solutions that address challenging engineering problems within the automotive sector.
• Utilize advanced CAD/CAE tools for detailed modeling, simulation (FEA, CFD), and optimization of mechanical designs.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to a team of mechanical engineers and technicians.
• Collaborate closely with product management, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure successful product development and launch.
• Define technical requirements, specifications, and testing procedures for new and existing components.
• Conduct thorough root cause analysis for design failures and implement corrective actions.
• Stay current with emerging technologies, industry trends, and best practices in automotive mechanical engineering.
• Manage technical aspects of supplier collaborations and ensure component quality meets stringent automotive standards.
• Contribute to intellectual property development through patent applications and technical disclosures.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• 12+ years of extensive experience in mechanical engineering, with a significant focus on automotive component design and development.
• Demonstrated expertise in leading complex engineering projects from concept to production.
• Mastery of CAD software (e.g., Siemens NX, CATIA) and advanced simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS Mechanical, Abaqus).
• In-depth knowledge of automotive materials, manufacturing processes (e.g., stamping, casting, forging), and industry standards (e.g., ISO/TS 16949).
• Proven ability to solve complex technical problems and drive innovation.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience working with international teams and suppliers.
• A strong understanding of vehicle dynamics, powertrain, or chassis systems is highly desirable.
• Residing in or willing to relocate to **Upington, Northern Cape**.

Benefits

• Exceptional salary package including executive bonuses and long-term incentives.
• Premium private healthcare and comprehensive wellness benefits.
• Generous retirement savings plan with substantial employer match.
• Ample opportunities for advanced professional training, certificates, and conference participation.
• State-of-the-art research and development facilities in **Upington**.
• A stimulating and challenging work environment with a focus on innovation.
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates.
• Potential for international assignments and travel.
• Company-provided vehicle or allowance.