Senior Automotive Body Design Engineer - Lead Exterior & Structure

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental & Vision insurance

Relocation assistance

Career advancement opportunities

Employer matching retirement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automotive Body Design Engineer to shape vehicle exteriors and body structures in Kimberley, Northern Cape. You will lead CAD work, drive structural integrity, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver manufacturable, aesthetically pleasing designs.

You will use CATIA V5 or Siemens NX for 3D modeling, perform simulations, and mentor junior engineers while ensuring compliance with safety standards and weight reduction goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in automotive body design.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software, particularly CATIA V5 or Siemens NX.
• Strong understanding of automotive body structures, materials (steel, aluminum, composites), and manufacturing processes.
• Knowledge of automotive safety standards (e.g., crashworthiness) and regulations.
• Experience with simulation tools for structural analysis and/or CFD is highly desirable.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.
• Ability to manage projects and meet demanding timelines.
• A keen eye for automotive design aesthetics and functionality.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of automotive body components, including exterior panels, closures, and underlying structures.
• Utilize CAD software (CATIA V5/Siemens NX) to create 3D models and 2D drawings.
• Collaborate with styling, aerodynamics, safety, and manufacturing teams throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Perform and interpret simulations (FEA/CFD) to optimize designs.
• Ensure designs meet regulatory requirements, safety standards, and performance targets.
• Develop manufacturability, assembly, and cost-effectiveness solutions.
• Support prototype builds, testing, and vehicle assembly activities.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to technical development.
• Stay abreast of new materials, processes, and design technologies.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related discipline

Tools

CATIA V5

Siemens NX

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automotive Body Design Engineer to shape vehicle exteriors and body structures in Kimberley, Northern Cape. You will lead CAD work, drive structural integrity, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver manufacturable, aesthetically pleasing designs.

You will use CATIA V5 or Siemens NX for 3D modeling, perform simulations, and mentor junior engineers while ensuring compliance with safety standards and weight reduction goals.