Principal Mechanical Engineer (Automotive R&D)

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation and bonus

Health, dental, vision

Retirement plan with company match

Professional growth opportunities

Access to R&D facilities

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer (Automotive R&D) in Sandton, Gauteng, to lead advanced mechanical design and simulation efforts for next‑gen vehicle components and powertrains.

You will mentor engineers, drive R&D roadmaps, and collaborate across electrical, software, and materials teams, shaping the future of automotive technology in South Africa.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related automotive discipline.
• 10+ years of automotive mechanical engineering R&D experience.
• Expert in powertrain, chassis dynamics, thermal management, battery systems, or structural design for vehicles.
• Proficient in advanced simulation tools (ANSYS/Abaqus/Adams) and CAD software.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Record of patents or significant technical contributions desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of novel automotive components and systems for R&D projects.
• Develop and execute advanced simulation and analysis plans (FEA, CFD, Multibody Dynamics) to validate designs.
• Architect innovative mechanical solutions addressing complex automotive challenges (electrification, thermal management, lightweighting).
• Mentor and provide technical leadership to a team of mechanical engineers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional R&D teams (electrical, software, materials).
• Stay abreast of emerging automotive technologies and competitor innovations.
• Define and document technical specifications, research findings, and IP disclosures.
• Represent the R&D team in technical reviews and project gate meetings.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Education

PhD or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

ANSYS

Abaqus

Adams

CAD software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge automotive technology innovator, is seeking a visionary Principal Mechanical Engineer (Automotive R&D) to join their advanced research and development team in Sandton, Gauteng . This is an unparalleled opportunity for a highly experienced engineer to drive the future of automotive mechanical systems, focusing on next-generation vehicle components and powertrains. You will be instrumental in conceptualizing, designing, and testing breakthrough technologies, mentoring junior engineers, and contributing to strategic R&D roadmaps. The ideal candidate possesses deep expertise in automotive mechanical design, advanced simulation techniques, and a proven history of innovation in the automotive sector. Join a dynamic and forward-thinking company at the forefront of automotive innovation in South Africa .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of novel automotive components and systems for R&D projects.
• Develop and execute advanced simulation and analysis plans (FEA, CFD, Multibody Dynamics) to validate designs.
• Architect innovative mechanical solutions that address complex automotive challenges in areas like electrification, thermal management, or lightweighting.
• Mentor and provide technical leadership to a team of mechanical engineers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional R&D teams, including electrical, software, and materials science engineers.
• Stay abreast of emerging automotive technologies and competitor innovations.
• Define and document technical specifications, research findings, and intellectual property disclosures.
• Represent the R&D team in technical reviews and project gate meetings.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related automotive engineering discipline.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in automotive mechanical engineering R&D, with a focus on design and analysis.
• Demonstrated expertise in at least one of the following: powertrain systems, chassis dynamics, thermal management, battery systems, or structural design for vehicles.
• Expert proficiency in advanced simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus, Adams) and CAD software.
• Strong understanding of automotive manufacturing processes and material science.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Outstanding leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Record of innovation, such as patents or significant technical contributions, is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation and a significant performance bonus structure.
• Premium health, dental, vision, and wellness programs.
• Generous retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Exceptional opportunities for professional growth and leading groundbreaking research.
• Access to state-of-the-art R&D facilities and resources.
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates relocating to the Sandton area.