Senior Automotive Mechanical Engineer

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Senior Automotive Mechanical Engineer to join our Rustenburg team. The role focuses on design, development, and testing of automotive chassis components, leveraging CAD/CAE tools to deliver innovative solutions on-site in North West, ZA.

The ideal candidate will have 8+ years in automotive mechanical design, strong knowledge of vehicle dynamics, materials, and manufacturing processes, and hands-on prototyping experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (or closely related field).
• Master's degree is a plus.
• 8+ years of progressive automotive mechanical design/engineering experience.
• Proficiency in CATIA V5, SolidWorks, NX for 3D modeling.
• Experience with CAE tools for structural, fatigue, and thermal analysis.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop advanced automotive mechanical components and systems (suspension, steering, braking).
• Use CAD software for 3D modeling and drafting of parts and assemblies.
• Perform FEA/CAE simulations to verify designs under various conditions.
• Prototype, test, and validate to ensure design integrity and performance.
• Collaborate with manufacturing to optimize for manufacturability and cost.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Project management

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

CATIA V5

SolidWorks

NX

ANSYS

Abaqus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished leader in automotive component design and manufacturing, is actively searching for a highly experienced Senior Automotive Mechanical Engineer to join their esteemed team in Rustenburg, North West, ZA . This is a critical, on-site position focused on the design, development, and testing of innovative automotive chassis systems and components. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of mechanical principles, materials science, and vehicle dynamics, coupled with extensive experience in CAD/CAE software. You will play a pivotal role in driving product innovation, ensuring the highest standards of quality and performance, and collaborating with a dedicated team of professionals. This role demands hands-on involvement in prototyping, testing, and validation, contributing directly to the advancement of automotive engineering excellence within our client's renowned facilities.

Key Responsibilities

Design and develop advanced automotive mechanical components and systems, focusing on areas such as suspension, steering, and braking. Utilize CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks) for detailed 3D modeling and 2D drafting of components and assemblies. Perform Finite Element Analysis (FEA) using CAE tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus) to simulate stress, strain, and durability under various operating conditions. Conduct rigorous physical testing and validation of prototypes to verify design integrity and performance against specifications. Collaborate with manufacturing and production teams to ensure designs are optimized for manufacturability and cost-effectiveness. Investigate and resolve design-related issues encountered during product development, testing, or field deployment. Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations for internal stakeholders and clients. Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automotive mechanical engineering, materials, and manufacturing technologies. Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the overall technical growth of the engineering department.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field;
• Master's degree is a plus.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in automotive mechanical design and engineering.
• Demonstrated expertise in CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5, SolidWorks, NX) for complex 3D modeling.
• Proficiency in CAE tools for structural analysis, fatigue analysis, and thermal analysis.
• Solid understanding of vehicle dynamics, suspension systems, steering mechanisms, and braking systems.
• Knowledge of automotive materials, manufacturing processes, and industry standards (e.g., ISO/TS 16949).
• Experience with prototype build processes and experimental testing methodologies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities, with the capacity to work effectively in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Familiarity with APQP, PPAP, and FMEA processes.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a generous base salary and performance-based bonuses. Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance are provided, alongside a retirement savings plan. The company fosters a culture of continuous learning and development, offering opportunities for professional growth, training, and participation in industry conferences. Employees have access to cutting-edge technology and resources within a supportive and collaborative work environment located in Rustenburg, North West, ZA. This role is essential for driving innovation in automotive engineering.