Remote Lead Automotive Design Engineer – Interiors & Exteriors

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental and vision insurance

Generous retirement plan

Paid time off and professional growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Automotive Design Engineer to lead a remote design team shaping future vehicle interiors and exteriors. You will translate sketches into manufacturable designs, overseeing concept development, CAD workflows, and production readiness in a global, remote-first environment.

The role requires 10+ years of progressive automotive design experience, strong leadership, and expert skills in Alias, CATIA, and Blender.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Industrial Design, Transportation Design, or related field.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in automotive design with a strong portfolio.
• Proven leadership or team management experience.
• Expert proficiency in Alias, CATIA, Blender, or similar design software.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of automotive designers through the entire design process.
• Develop innovative exterior and interior design concepts aligned with brand and trends.
• Create renderings, 3D models, and prototypes to communicate design intent.
• Collaborate with engineering, product planning, and marketing to ensure feasible, market-ready designs.
• Oversee development of design specifications and ensure accurate production implementation.
• Conduct design reviews and present concepts to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Sketching

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s in Industrial Design

Tools

Alias

CATIA

Blender

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Automotive Design Engineer to lead a remote design team shaping future vehicle interiors and exteriors. You will translate sketches into manufacturable designs, overseeing concept development, CAD workflows, and production readiness in a global, remote-first environment.

The role requires 10+ years of progressive automotive design experience, strong leadership, and expert skills in Alias, CATIA, and Blender.