Senior Automotive Chassis Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Dental benefits

Retirement plans

Career advancement

Engineering tools

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automotive Chassis Engineer to join an elite engineering team in Paarl, Western Cape. You will lead the design, development and validation of chassis systems, including suspension, steering and braking, to deliver high‑performance, safe and refined vehicles.

Using CAE tools (Adams, ANSYS, Abaqus) you will perform multibody dynamics analysis, durability predictions and test planning.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering.
• 7+ years in automotive chassis design and development.
• Proven suspension, steering, and braking system expertise.
• Strong vehicle dynamics knowledge and CAE proficiency.
• Experience with data acquisition and road testing.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical and communication skills.
• Team-oriented with ability to manage timelines; lightweight materials desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop chassis systems for new vehicle programs.
• Perform vehicle dynamics analysis and simulation to optimize handling.
• Use CAE tools (Adams, ANSYS, Abaqus) for analysis and prediction.
• Develop and execute test plans in virtual and physical testing.
• Collaborate with styling, powertrain and manufacturing teams.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance.
• Prepare technical reports and design documentation.
• Stay current with chassis tech and manufacturing processes.

Skills

Vehicle dynamics

Multibody dynamics

FEA

Data acquisition

Problem-solving

Communication

Team collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering

Tools

Adams

ANSYS

Abaqus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished automotive manufacturer known for its focus on driving dynamics and vehicle refinement, is seeking an accomplished Senior Automotive Chassis Engineer to join their advanced engineering team in Paarl, Western Cape. This role is crucial for the design, development, and validation of vehicle chassis systems, including suspension, steering, braking, and structural components. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of vehicle dynamics, structural integrity, and material science. You will be instrumental in creating chassis systems that deliver exceptional handling, ride comfort, and safety across a range of vehicle platforms. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of high-performance vehicles within a collaborative and innovation-driven environment. Your expertise will shape the driving experience of future vehicles. The focus is on achieving optimal vehicle performance through superior chassis design.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop chassis systems, including suspension, steering, braking, and related structural components, for new vehicle programs.
• Perform detailed vehicle dynamics analysis and simulation to optimize handling, ride comfort, and stability.
• Utilize CAE tools (e.g., Adams, ANSYS, Abaqus) for structural analysis, durability testing, and performance prediction.
• Develop and execute test plans for chassis components and systems, both in virtual environments and through physical testing.
• Collaborate closely with styling, powertrain, and manufacturing teams to ensure integrated and manufacturable chassis designs.
• Troubleshoot and resolve engineering issues related to chassis performance, durability, and NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness).
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and design documentation.
• Stay current with advancements in chassis technology, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on chassis design and development projects.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in automotive chassis design and development.
• Proven expertise in suspension, steering, and braking system design.
• Strong knowledge of vehicle dynamics principles and their application.
• Proficiency with CAE software for multibody dynamics simulation, finite element analysis (FEA), and durability assessment.
• Experience with data acquisition systems and road testing procedures for chassis evaluation.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team and manage project timelines.
• Experience with lightweight materials and advanced manufacturing techniques is desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and retirement plans.
• Opportunities for career advancement within a leading automotive company.
• Access to state-of-the-art engineering tools and facilities.
• Participation in innovative vehicle development projects.
• Generous annual leave and professional development support.
• Employee vehicle purchase programs.
• A dynamic and challenging work environment focused on excellence.