Senior Automotive Mechanical Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement plan

Testing facilities

Training & progression

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Automotive Mechanical Engineer in Durban to lead design, development, and testing of powertrain components and vehicle systems. You will work within an R&D team focused on performance, efficiency, and sustainable automotive solutions, contributing to the company’s roadmap in KwaZulu-Natal.

Requires a Mechanical Engineering degree (BEng/MEng) with automotive focus and at least 6 years of hands-on experience, plus proficiency with CATIA/ANSYS and strong analytical

Qualifications

• BEng or MEng in Mechanical Engineering, automotive specialization.
• Minimum of 6 years hands-on automotive design experience.
• Proficiency in automotive CAD software and simulation tools.
• In-depth knowledge of powertrain, vehicle dynamics, and manufacturing.
• Experience with testing methodologies and validation procedures.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with precision.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer complex automotive components (engine parts, transmissions, chassis).
• Utilise CATIA/ANSYS for CAD and simulation to validate performance.
• Conduct prototype testing and data analysis to verify specs.
• Collaborate with vehicle integration teams for seamless architecture.
• Manage design projects from concept to production with timelines and quality.
• Stay abreast of automotive tech and propose innovative designs.

Skills

Automotive CAD

Simulation tools

Powertrain knowledge

Vehicle dynamics

Testing methodologies

Analytical skills

Education

BEng/MEng in Mechanical Engineering (Automotive specialization)

Tools

CATIA

ANSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a distinguished Senior Automotive Mechanical Engineer to join their advanced R&D facility in Durban . This pivotal role will focus on the design, development, and testing of critical powertrain components and vehicle systems, driving innovation in automotive technology. You will be part of a team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of performance, efficiency, and sustainability in the automotive industry. The successful candidate will leverage extensive technical expertise and a passion for automotive engineering to contribute significantly to the company's future product roadmap within the vibrant landscape of KwaZulu-Natal .

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer complex automotive components, including engine parts, transmission systems, and chassis elements.
• Utilise advanced CAD modeling and simulation tools (e.g., CATIA, ANSYS) for component design and performance validation.
• Conduct rigorous prototype testing and data analysis to verify design specifications and identify areas for improvement.
• Collaborate closely with vehicle integration teams to ensure seamless incorporation of designed components into the overall vehicle architecture.
• Manage design projects from concept through to production, adhering to strict timelines and quality standards.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automotive technology and propose innovative design solutions.

Requirements

• BEng or MEng in Mechanical Engineering, with a specialization in automotive engineering.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands‑on experience in the automotive sector , focusing on mechanical design.
• Proficiency in automotive CAD software and simulation tools for mechanical analysis.
• In-depth knowledge of powertrain systems , vehicle dynamics, and manufacturing processes for automotive components.
• Experience with testing methodologies and validation procedures for automotive parts.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a meticulous approach to engineering challenges.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package with performance-based incentives and bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement savings plan.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art automotive testing facilities and development labs.
• Generous opportunities for training and career progression within a leading automotive company.
• A collaborative and innovative work environment focused on cutting‑edge automotive technology.