Senior Automotive Powertrain Engineer

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package

Medical insurance

Retirement fund

Training programs

Paid time off

Hybrid/onsite

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Senior Automotive Powertrain Engineer to lead design, development and testing of advanced internal combustion engines and hybrid powertrains.

The role blends on-site collaboration with flexible remote work, requiring deep knowledge of thermodynamics, calibration, and engine testing, plus strong teamwork to meet emissions standards and improve fuel efficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in automotive powertrain engineering.
• Proven expertise in internal combustion engine design, calibration and testing.
• Strong thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and combustion principles.
• Experience with powertrain simulation tools such as GT-SUITE and AVL Excite.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of advanced automotive powertrain components and systems.
• Conduct performance analysis, simulation, and testing of engines and related systems.
• Optimize powertrain calibration for performance, fuel economy, and emissions compliance using specialized software.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and supply chain teams to ensure manufacturability and cost-effectiveness.
• Troubleshoot and resolve powertrain-related issues identified during testing or in production vehicles.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including design specs and test reports.
• Stay current with emerging powertrain technologies, including hybrid and electric systems.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers within the powertrain team.
• Ensure all powertrain designs meet safety and regulatory standards.

Skills

Analytical

Problem-solving

Decision-making

Communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering

Tools

GT-SUITE

AVL Excite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious automotive manufacturer known for its performance vehicles, is seeking an experienced Senior Automotive Powertrain Engineer to join their expanding engineering division in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is central to the design, development, and optimization of cutting-edge internal combustion engines and future hybrid/electric powertrains. You will be instrumental in driving innovation, ensuring compliance with stringent emissions regulations, and enhancing fuel efficiency. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of thermodynamics, combustion processes, and vehicle dynamics, coupled with hands-on experience in engine calibration and testing. This hybrid role offers a blend of on-site collaboration and flexible remote work, allowing for a balanced approach to project execution. You will be part of a team that is shaping the future of automotive propulsion.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of advanced automotive powertrain components and systems.
• Conduct performance analysis, simulation, and testing of engines and related systems.
• Optimize powertrain calibration for performance, fuel economy, and emissions compliance using specialized software.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and supply chain teams to ensure design for manufacturability and cost-effectiveness.
• Troubleshoot and resolve powertrain-related issues identified during testing or in production vehicles.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including design specifications and test reports.
• Stay current with emerging powertrain technologies, including hybrid and electric vehicle systems.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers within the powertrain team.
• Ensure all powertrain designs meet rigorous safety and regulatory standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in automotive powertrain engineering.
• Proven expertise in internal combustion engine design, calibration, and testing.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and combustion principles.
• Experience with powertrain simulation tools (e.g., GT-SUITE, AVL excite).
• Familiarity with hybrid and electric vehicle powertrain architectures is a significant advantage.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities to work effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced setting.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary package, competitive with industry standards, plus potential for performance bonuses. Employees receive comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans. A retirement fund with company contributions is provided. Opportunities for professional growth include advanced training programs and participation in industry conferences. The company culture encourages innovation and teamwork. Generous paid time off, including vacation and sick leave, is standard. This hybrid role requires presence at our Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal facility for key collaborative sessions, with flexibility for remote work on other days. Excellent on-site facilities are available.