Senior Automotive Design Engineer (Chassis Systems)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Executive benefits package

Leadership training

State-of-the-art engineering facility

Retirement planning

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Automotive Design Engineer (Chassis) in Klerksdorp, North West. Lead design and integration of chassis components, leveraging CATIA and CAE tools to optimize vehicle dynamics.

You will mentor engineers, manage complex projects from concept to production, and drive validation through rigorous testing and analysis. The role requires a PhD/Master's in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering with 7+ years in chassis design, strong leadership, and a passion for cutting-edge

Qualifications

• - 7+ years in automotive chassis design and development.
• - Expert CAD/CAE skills with CATIA and related tools.
• - Strong knowledge of vehicle dynamics, suspension, steering, and braking.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of automotive chassis systems (suspension, steering, braking).
• Perform advanced engineering analysis (FEA/CFD/Multibody) to optimize performance and safety.
• Create 3D CAD models and 2D drawings using CATIA V5/V6.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for product development.
• Develop validation plans and oversee testing and results.

Skills

Vehicle dynamics

Project leadership

Mentoring

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering

Tools

CATIA

ANSYS

Abaqus

Adams

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a trailblazer in automotive innovation, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Automotive Design Engineer specializing in Chassis Systems to join their prestigious engineering hub in Klerksdorp, North West . This senior role demands a profound understanding of vehicle dynamics, suspension, steering, and braking systems. You will lead the design, development, and integration of cutting-edge chassis components, working on next-generation vehicle platforms. The successful candidate will possess exceptional CAD/CAE skills, a strong analytical mindset, and a proven ability to manage complex engineering projects from concept to production. This is an unparalleled opportunity to shape the future of automotive performance and safety within a company renowned for its technological prowess, situated in the industrial heartland of Klerksdorp .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of automotive chassis systems, including suspension, steering, and braking components.
• Perform advanced engineering analysis (e.g., FEA, CFD, Multibody Dynamics) to optimize performance, durability, and safety.
• Create detailed 3D CAD models and 2D drawings using industry-standard software (e.g., CATIA V5/V6).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including vehicle integration, manufacturing, and testing, to ensure successful product development.
• Develop and execute validation plans, overseeing component and system testing, and analyzing results.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for assigned chassis engineering tasks.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering technical growth within the team.
• Prepare comprehensive technical documentation, reports, and presentations for design reviews.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry best practices in chassis engineering.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant regulatory standards and customer requirements.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in automotive chassis design and development.
• Expert proficiency in CAD software (CATIA preferred) and CAE tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus, Adams).
• In-depth knowledge of vehicle dynamics, suspension kinematics, steering systems, and braking technology.
• Demonstrated experience in leading engineering projects and managing technical teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and presentation abilities.
• Experience with automotive manufacturing processes and DFM (Design for Manufacturing).
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Klerksdorp area.

Benefits

• Highly competitive senior-level salary.
• Comprehensive executive benefits package.
• Opportunity to work on flagship automotive projects.
• Significant professional development and leadership training.
• State-of-the-art engineering facilities.
• Contribution to a globally recognized automotive brand.
• Performance-based incentives and bonuses.
• Generous paid time off and retirement planning support.