Senior Automotive Mechanical Engineer - Powertrain Development

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement annuity

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Automotive Mechanical Engineer for its Powertrain Development team in Johannesburg. You will lead design, development, testing and validation of advanced powertrain systems, including engines, transmissions and hybrid drivelines.

The role requires 7+ years in automotive powertrain engineering, proficiency in CAD/CAE tools, and strong leadership with cross-functional collaboration in a hybrid work setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in automotive powertrain engineering.
• Experience with hybrid/electric powertrains is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of new powertrain components ensuring performance and durability targets.
• Perform detailed mechanical design, analysis (FEA, CFD), and simulation of powertrain parts.
• Oversee CAD modeling and engineering drawings using industry-standard software.
• Plan and execute rigorous testing and validation procedures for powertrain systems.
• Analyze test data, identify performance issues, and implement design solutions.
• Mentor junior engineers and ensure designs comply with safety standards.

Skills

Powertrain design

Mechanical Eng.

FEA/CFD

Project leadership

Education

BSc/MSc Mechanical Eng

Tools

CATIA

SolidWorks

Creo

ANSYS

STAR-CCM+

Adams

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading global automotive manufacturer renowned for its innovation and performance vehicles, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Automotive Mechanical Engineer to join their Powertrain Development team. This hybrid role is based at their state-of-the-art facility in **Johannesburg, Gauteng, ZA**. You will be instrumental in the design, development, testing, and validation of advanced powertrain systems, including engines, transmissions, and hybrid/electric drivelines. The ideal candidate possesses a deep technical understanding of mechanical engineering principles, a passion for automotive technology, and proven experience in leading complex engineering projects from concept to production.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of new powertrain components and systems, ensuring performance, efficiency, and durability targets are met.
• Conduct detailed mechanical design, analysis (FEA, CFD), and simulation of powertrain parts and assemblies.
• Oversee the creation of detailed CAD models and engineering drawings using industry-standard software.
• Plan and execute rigorous testing and validation procedures for powertrain components and systems.
• Analyze test data, identify performance issues, and implement design solutions.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers, software engineers, and manufacturing specialists.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets effectively to ensure timely project completion.
• Stay abreast of emerging automotive technologies and industry trends in powertrain development.
• Develop and document technical specifications, design reports, and validation plans.
• Troubleshoot engineering problems and provide innovative solutions.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers within the powertrain development team.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant safety regulations and industry standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in automotive powertrain engineering.
• Proven expertise in internal combustion engines, transmissions, or electric/hybrid vehicle powertrains.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks, Creo) and CAE tools (e.g., ANSYS, STAR-CCM+, Adams).
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, mechanics of materials, and control systems.
• Experience with powertrain testing, data acquisition, and analysis.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong project management and leadership capabilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across diverse teams.
• Familiarity with automotive industry standards and best practices.
• Experience with hybrid or electric vehicle powertrain development is highly desirable.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package of Rand per annum, comprehensive health insurance, a retirement annuity, and performance-based bonuses. Employees benefit from ongoing professional development opportunities, access to cutting-edge technology, and a collaborative work environment. This hybrid role offers flexibility while ensuring team synergy and in-person collaboration at our **Johannesburg, Gauteng, ZA** facility.