Senior Automotive Performance Engineer

Placements24; Siyancuma Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level salary

Equity options

Health insurance

Generous PTO

Fully remote setup

Impactful projects

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automotive Performance Engineer to lead design, development, and validation of high-performance automotive systems from a remote home office. You will drive simulations, data analysis, and calibration strategies for engine, powertrain, and chassis while mentoring junior engineers.

The role requires 7+ years in automotive performance engineering with expertise in MATLAB/Simulink, GT-Power, and ECUs, along with strong data analytics and remote collaboration skills.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in automotive performance engineering.
• Proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink and GT-Power; data acquisition systems.
• Strong understanding of combustion, thermodynamics, and vehicle dynamics.
• Experience with ECU calibration tools and methodologies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills for remote work.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and validation of high-performance automotive systems (engine, powertrain, chassis).
• Conduct performance simulations, data analysis, and track/dyno testing to find improvements.
• Develop and implement ECU calibration strategies to optimise power, efficiency, and emissions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate performance objectives into vehicle architecture.
• Stay updated on automotive performance trends and apply innovations.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to remote team strategy.

Skills

Performance engineering

Engine development

Data analysis

Remote leadership

Education

Master's or PhD in Mechanical or Automotive Eng

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

GT-Power

Data acquisition

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished Senior Automotive Performance Engineer to join their premier, fully remote engineering division. You will spearhead the development and optimization of vehicle performance systems, including engines, transmissions, and chassis dynamics, leveraging advanced simulation and testing methodologies. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of automotive performance from your home office, collaborating with a world-class team on groundbreaking projects. If you have a deep passion for automotive engineering, a track record of innovation, and expertise in performance tuning and analysis, this remote leadership role is an exceptional career step.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and validation of high-performance automotive systems (engine, powertrain, chassis).
• Conduct advanced performance simulations, data analysis, and track/dyno testing to identify areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement calibration strategies for engine control units (ECUs) and other vehicle systems to optimize power, efficiency, and emissions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate performance objectives into vehicle architecture and component design.
• Stay abreast of the latest trends and technologies in automotive performance engineering and apply them innovatively.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the strategic direction of the performance engineering team in a remote setting.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• Extensive experience (7+ years) in automotive performance engineering, with a focus on engine/powertrain development.
• Proficiency in simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, GT-Power) and data acquisition systems.
• Deep understanding of combustion processes, thermodynamics, and vehicle dynamics.
• Experience with calibration tools and methodologies for ECUs.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, suitable for a remote work environment.

Benefits

• Executive-level salary and comprehensive bonus structure.
• Equity options in a rapidly growing automotive technology company.
• Top-tier health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and a fully remote work setup.
• Opportunities for impactful work on the cutting edge of automotive innovation .