Senior Automotive Design Engineer

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Retirement savings

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Senior Automotive Design Engineer with 8+ years of automotive design experience. You will lead concept-to-production design of complex components using CAD/CAE tools such as CATIA V5/V6 and Siemens NX.

Responsibilities include modeling, simulations, and cross-functional collaboration with manufacturing, testing and QA. Mentorship of junior engineers and timely design reviews are expected.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive automotive design experience.
• Expert proficiency with CATIA V5/V6 and Siemens NX.
• Strong knowledge of product development from concept to launch.
• Proven problem-solving and leadership abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of automotive components from concept to production.
• Create detailed 3D models, 2D drawings, and specs using CAD software.
• Conduct advanced simulations (FEA/CFD) to validate performance.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, testing and QA for manufacturability.
• Mentor junior engineers and present design reviews to management.
• Stay updated on automotive design trends and regulatory standards.

Skills

CATIA V5/V6

Siemens NX

FEA

CFD

Leadership

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Automotive Engineering

Tools

CATIA V5/V6

Siemens NX

CAE tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic player in the automotive sector, is seeking a Senior Automotive Design Engineer to contribute to their innovative product development efforts. This position, located in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , requires a seasoned professional with a strong background in automotive design principles and advanced CAD/CAE skills. You will be responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and developing complex automotive components and systems, ensuring they meet stringent performance, safety, and aesthetic requirements. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking company and influence the future of automotive design in South Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of automotive components and systems from concept through to production, ensuring adherence to project specifications, timelines, and budgets.
• Create detailed 3D models, 2D drawings, and specifications using advanced CAD software.
• Perform advanced simulations and analyses (e.g., FEA, CFD) to validate designs for structural integrity, thermal performance, and aerodynamics.
• Collaborate closely with manufacturing, testing, and quality assurance teams to ensure manufacturability and performance validation.
• Identify opportunities for innovation and design optimization to improve product performance, reduce costs, and enhance user experience.
• Mentor and guide junior design engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence.
• Prepare and present design reviews to senior management and stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies in automotive design and manufacturing.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant industry standards and regulations.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in automotive design engineering.
• Expert proficiency in industry-standard CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5/V6, Siemens NX) and CAE tools.
• Deep understanding of automotive product development processes, from concept to launch.
• Proven ability to solve complex engineering challenges with innovative solutions.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong leadership qualities and experience in mentoring engineering teams.
• Familiarity with materials science, manufacturing processes, and vehicle systems integration.
• A passion for automotive innovation and a commitment to design excellence.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a performance-driven bonus structure, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement savings, and relocation assistance if applicable.
• The company provides unparalleled opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning, and career advancement.
• You will work with cutting-edge technology and collaborate with a team of dedicated professionals.
• This role is based in the industrial hub of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , offering a stimulating work environment.
• Join a company that is shaping the future of mobility.