Senior Automotive Performance Engineer

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Generous paid time off

Hybrid work arrangement

International travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, South Africa, is seeking a Senior Automotive Performance Engineer to design, develop, and test advanced powertrain and chassis systems for enhanced vehicle performance. You will drive calibration programs, analyze data, and push the boundaries of dynamic performance.

The role requires a Master’s or Ph.D. in mechanical or automotive engineering with at least 6 years of hands-on experience in engine calibration, chassis dynamics, and vehicle testing.

Qualifications

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering or related field is required.
• Minimum 6 years of progressive experience in automotive performance engineering.
• Proficiency in engine calibration, chassis dynamics, and vehicle testing.
• Experience with simulation tools (MATLAB/Simulink, GT-SUITE) and data acquisition tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and validation of engine calibration, suspension tuning, and aerodynamic components for performance vehicles.
• Conduct simulation and modeling of vehicle dynamics and powertrain performance using industry-standard software.
• Plan and execute vehicle testing programs on proving grounds and public roads, analyzing test data.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate performance enhancements.
• Develop and optimize control algorithms for engine management systems, adaptive suspensions, and active aerodynamics.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex performance issues identified during testing or by customers.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of emerging automotive technologies and competition.
• Mentor junior engineers and guide their development.

Skills

Engine calibration

Chassis dynamics

Vehicle testing

Problem solving

Project management

Communication

Team collaboration

Education

Master’s or Ph.D. in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

GT-SUITE

Diadem

Vector CANalyzer

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned automotive R&D facility located in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal , is seeking a highly qualified and innovative Senior Automotive Performance Engineer . This pivotal role involves designing, developing, and testing advanced powertrain and chassis systems to enhance vehicle performance, efficiency, and driving dynamics. You will be at the forefront of automotive innovation, working with a dedicated team of engineers to push the boundaries of what's possible. The ideal candidate will have a strong theoretical foundation in mechanical engineering, extensive practical experience in performance tuning, and a passion for creating exhilarating driving experiences. This position requires a strategic thinker with excellent analytical skills and the ability to translate complex engineering concepts into tangible results. Join a leading organization that invests in cutting-edge technology and fosters a collaborative research environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and validation of engine calibration, suspension tuning, and aerodynamic components for performance vehicles.
• Conduct simulation and modeling of vehicle dynamics and powertrain performance using industry-standard software (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, ANSYS).
• Plan and execute vehicle testing programs on proving grounds and public roads, meticulously analyzing test data.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, and software development, to integrate performance enhancements.
• Develop and optimize control algorithms for engine management systems, adaptive suspensions, and active aerodynamics.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex performance-related issues identified during testing or by customers.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, presentations, and documentation for project stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of emerging automotive technologies, trends, and competitor activities in performance engineering.
• Mentor junior engineers, sharing expertise and guiding their technical development.

Requirements

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in automotive performance engineering.
• Demonstrated expertise in engine calibration, chassis dynamics, and vehicle testing.
• Proficiency in simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, GT-SUITE, or similar.
• Experience with data acquisition systems and post-processing tools (e.g., Diadem, Vector CANalyzer).
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and control systems theory.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong project management and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, reflecting the seniority and specialized skills required for this role.
• Employees benefit from a comprehensive health insurance plan, retirement savings contributions, and generous paid time off.
• The role is based in a modern facility in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal , offering a stimulating hybrid work arrangement.
• You will have opportunities for international travel for conferences and testing.
• This is a chance to make a significant impact on the future of automotive performance with a forward-thinking company.