Senior Automotive Performance Engineer - Hybrid & Travel

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

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.