Senior Automotive Performance Engineer (Remote)

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Remote work

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Automotive Performance Engineer to lead design, development, and optimization of high‑performance vehicle systems. The role is fully remote, offering collaboration with a global team from Centurion, Gauteng, ZA.

Ideal candidates have 8+ years in automotive performance engineering, strong engine calibration skills, and proficiency with MATLAB/Simulink, GT-Power, or similar tools. Telework flexibility is a key benefit.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field.
• Proven experience in automotive performance engineering with powertrain/vehicle dynamics.
• Strong knowledge of engine calibration and control systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advanced control strategies for engine, transmission, and chassis to optimize performance and emissions.
• Conduct simulations and data analysis using MATLAB/Simulink, GT-Power, and ANSYS to evaluate performance.
• Design, calibrate, and validate performance hardware and software components.
• Collaborate remotely with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of performance systems.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and presentations for stakeholders.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex performance-related issues identified during testing or in the field.
• Stay current with trends in automotive performance, electrification, and advanced materials.
• Contribute to defining vehicle performance targets for new projects.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on performance topics.

Skills

Engineering expertise

Analytical thinking

Remote collaboration

Project management

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

GT-Power

ANSYS

Job description

About the Role Join Our client, a visionary automotive technology company, as a Senior Automotive Performance Engineer working fully remotely. This pivotal role focuses on the design, development, and optimization of high-performance vehicle systems, including engine management, powertrain dynamics, and vehicle handling characteristics. You will be instrumental in pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering, contributing to next-generation vehicle platforms. This remote position allows you to leverage your expertise from anywhere, collaborating with a world-class team through advanced digital collaboration tools. We are looking for an individual with a deep passion for automotive performance, exceptional analytical skills, and a proven track record in delivering innovative engineering solutions. This role offers the unique advantage of contributing to cutting-edge projects in the automotive industry without the constraints of a traditional office environment, making it ideal for experts based in or willing to work remotely from Centurion, Gauteng, ZA. Embrace the future of automotive engineering with a company that values creativity, technical excellence, and a remote-first approach.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advanced control strategies for engine, transmission, and chassis systems to optimize performance, efficiency, and emissions.
• Conduct complex simulations and data analysis using industry-standard tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, ANSYS) to evaluate performance parameters.
• Design, calibrate, and validate performance-related hardware and software components.
• Collaborate remotely with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, and testing, to ensure seamless integration of performance systems.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and documentation for project stakeholders.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex performance-related issues identified during testing or in the field.
• Stay current with emerging trends in automotive performance engineering, including electrification, autonomous driving, and advanced materials.
• Contribute to the definition of vehicle performance targets and requirements for new projects.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on performance-related topics.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in automotive performance engineering, with a focus on powertrain and vehicle dynamics.
• Demonstrated expertise in engine calibration, control systems design, and vehicle testing methodologies.
• Proficiency in simulation software such as MATLAB/Simulink, GT-Power, or similar.
• Experience with data acquisition systems and post-processing tools.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and control theory as applied to automotive systems.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional remote communication and collaboration abilities, with experience working in distributed teams.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple complex projects simultaneously in a remote setting.
• Familiarity with electric and hybrid vehicle powertrain architectures is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and a generous retirement savings plan.

As a fully remote position, you'll enjoy the flexibility to work from anywhere.

We invest in your professional growth through continuous training, conference attendance, and access to the latest industry research.

You'll be part of an innovative and forward-thinking company shaping the future of mobility.

This role offers significant opportunities for career advancement and the chance to work on groundbreaking automotive technology.

The ideal candidate will be located in or able to work remotely from Centurion, Gauteng, ZA, benefiting from a dynamic and intellectually stimulating remote work environment.

We provide the necessary tools and resources to excel in this remote role, ensuring your success and job satisfaction.