Senior Automotive Performance Engineer

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development support

Access to performance testing facility

Paid vacation and sick leave

Employee discounts on parts and tuning

Job summary

Placements24 in Rustenburg, South Africa, seeks a Senior Automotive Performance Engineer to lead tuning projects and develop performance upgrades across vehicle platforms. You will design calibration maps, validate with dynamometers and data acquisition systems, and mentor junior engineers.

The role requires a Mechanical/Automotive engineering degree and at least five years of hands-on tuning experience, with strong analytical and teamwork skills in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering.
• 5+ years hands-on experience in automotive performance tuning and engineering.
• Proficiency with ECU tuning software and data acquisition systems.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test engine tuning strategies and performance calibration maps.
• Conduct performance testing using dynamometers and data acquisition systems.
• Analyze data to identify improvements and validate modifications.
• Specify performance components such as turbos, exhausts, intakes, and suspension upgrades.
• Work with ECU tuning for various vehicle platforms.
• Troubleshoot performance-related issues and provide expert solutions.
• Stay current with trends in automotive performance engineering.
• Collaborate with fabrication and assembly teams for accurate implementation.
• Document testing procedures, results, and recommendations.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians on tuning techniques and data analysis.
• Contribute to new performance product line development.

Skills

Automotive performance tuning

Data analysis

ECU tuning

Engine dynamics

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering

Tools

Cobb AccessTuner

HP Tuners

Bosch ESI(tronic)

GT-SUITE

AVL FIRE

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic force in the Rustenburg automotive aftermarket scene, is seeking an exceptional Senior Automotive Performance Engineer to join their innovative team. This role is designed for a highly analytical and creative individual passionate about maximizing vehicle performance through tuning, modification, and cutting-edge engineering solutions. You will be responsible for developing, testing, and validating performance upgrades for a variety of vehicles. This position requires a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, working with advanced dynamometers, data acquisition systems, and sophisticated engine management software. If you have a proven track record in performance tuning and a desire to push the boundaries of automotive engineering in Rustenburg , this is the opportunity for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test engine tuning strategies and performance calibration maps.
• Conduct comprehensive performance testing using dynamometers (engine and chassis) and advanced data acquisition systems.
• Analyze performance data to identify areas for improvement and validate modifications.
• Specify and select performance components such as turbochargers, exhaust systems, intake manifolds, and suspension upgrades.
• Work with engine management systems (ECU tuning) for various vehicle platforms.
• Troubleshoot complex performance-related issues and provide expert solutions.
• Research and stay current with the latest trends and technologies in automotive performance engineering.
• Collaborate with fabrication and assembly teams to ensure accurate implementation of designs.
• Document testing procedures, results, and recommendations meticulously.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians on performance tuning techniques and data analysis.
• Contribute to the development of new performance product lines.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands‑on experience in automotive performance tuning and engineering.
• Extensive knowledge of internal combustion engine operation, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics.
• Proficiency with engine tuning software (e.g., Cobb AccessTuner, HP Tuners, Bosch ESI(tronic)) and ECU flashing.
• Experience with data acquisition systems and performance analysis software.
• Strong understanding of forced induction systems (turbocharging and supercharging).
• Familiarity with vehicle dynamics and suspension tuning.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
• A passion for motorsports and high-performance vehicles.
• Experience with simulation software (e.g., GT-SUITE, AVL FIRE) is a plus.

Benefits

• Annual salary of R, commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive medical and dental insurance plans.
• Retirement savings plan with company contributions.
• Generous allowance for professional development and training.
• Access to state-of-the-art performance testing facilities.
• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• A stimulating work environment focused on innovation and performance.
• Employee discounts on performance parts and services.
• Potential for profit sharing.