Senior Automotive Design Engineer — Shape Next-Gen Cars

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health and wellness benefits

Retirement annuity

Performance incentives

Professional development opportunities

Durban design studio

Paid annual leave

Overseas project involvement

Car scheme

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automotive Design Engineer in Durban to lead exterior and interior design initiatives for new vehicle programs. You will translate concepts into detailed 3D models and 2D drawings, ensuring feasible, cost-effective designs that meet manufacturing constraints.

The role requires a strong portfolio, 8+ years in automotive design, and proficiency in CATIA or Alias. You will mentor junior designers and collaborate with engineering and marketing teams to shape the

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Automotive Design, Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• 8+ years of professional automotive design experience.
• Expert proficiency in 3D modeling software such as CATIA, Alias, or similar.
• Strong understanding of automotive manufacturing processes (injection molding, stamping, surface finishing).
• Knowledge of ergonomics, human factors and UI design principles.
• Excellent visualization, sketching and rendering skills.
• Proven ability to present design concepts effectively to diverse audiences.
• Familiarity with automotive industry trends and competitor analysis.
• Strong collaboration skills with engineering and marketing teams.
• Excellent command of English, both written and verbal.

Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and development of automotive exterior and interior designs.
• Create detailed 3D models and 2D technical drawings using advanced CAD software.
• Develop and refine design proposals, presenting them to stakeholders and management.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to ensure design feasibility, manufacturability and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct design reviews and incorporate feedback from cross-functional teams.
• Select materials and finishes considering aesthetics, durability and cost.
• Develop and maintain design documentation including specifications and guidelines.
• Stay informed about market trends, competitor designs and emerging technologies.
• Mentor junior designers and contribute to the design department's direction.
• Ensure compliance with automotive design regulations and standards.

Skills

CATIA

Alias

3D modeling

Sketching

Rendering

Ergonomics

UI design

Mentorship

Presentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Automotive Design, or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA

Alias

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automotive Design Engineer in Durban to lead exterior and interior design initiatives for new vehicle programs. You will translate concepts into detailed 3D models and 2D drawings, ensuring feasible, cost-effective designs that meet manufacturing constraints.

The role requires a strong portfolio, 8+ years in automotive design, and proficiency in CATIA or Alias. You will mentor junior designers and collaborate with engineering and marketing teams to shape the