Senior Automotive Propulsion Systems Engineer

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Professional development

State-of-the-art facility

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a leader in automotive innovation based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, to recruit a Senior Automotive Propulsion Systems Engineer. The role focuses on design, development, and validation of propulsion systems across ICE, hybrid, and EV platforms, driving performance, efficiency, and emissions reduction.

You will lead complex engineering projects, collaborate with chassis, electronics, and software teams, and ensure rigorous testing and calibration in a

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in automotive powertrain or propulsion systems engineering.
• Proficiency with GT-Power, AMESim, MATLAB/Simulink.
• Experience with engine testing and calibration procedures.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and integration of automotive propulsion systems (ICE, hybrid, EV).
• Perform detailed analysis and simulation of powertrain performance, efficiency, and emissions.
• Develop and validate control strategies for propulsion systems to meet performance targets.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including chassis, electronics, and software engineers.
• Conduct component selection, benchmarking, and supplier management for propulsion system development.
• Oversee prototype builds, testing, and calibration activities in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues related to propulsion system performance and reliability.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends in automotive propulsion.

Skills

Powertrain engineering

Leadership

Analytical skills

Engineering analysis

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering

Tools

GT-Power

AMESim

MATLAB/Simulink

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in automotive innovation based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Automotive Propulsion Systems Engineer. This role is integral to the design, development, and validation of advanced propulsion systems, including internal combustion engines, hybrid powertrains, and future electric drive units. You will be instrumental in driving performance, efficiency, and emissions reduction in our vehicles, contributing significantly to the future of automotive technology within the dynamic Port Elizabeth industrial landscape. We are looking for a candidate with a strong theoretical foundation and practical experience in powertrain engineering. This is an excellent opportunity to join a forward-thinking company and make a tangible impact on the vehicles of tomorrow. The successful candidate will lead complex engineering projects, ensuring our propulsion systems meet the highest standards of quality and reliability.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and integration of automotive propulsion systems (ICE, hybrid, EV).
• Perform detailed analysis and simulation of powertrain performance, efficiency, and emissions.
• Develop and validate control strategies for propulsion systems to meet performance targets.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including chassis, electronics, and software engineers, on system integration.
• Conduct component selection, benchmarking, and supplier management for propulsion system development.
• Oversee prototype builds, testing, and calibration activities in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues related to propulsion system performance and reliability.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends in automotive propulsion.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in automotive powertrain or propulsion systems engineering.
• In-depth knowledge of internal combustion engine technologies, hybrid systems, and/or electric vehicle powertrains.
• Proficiency in simulation tools such as GT-Power, AMESim, MATLAB/Simulink.
• Experience with engine/vehicle testing and calibration procedures.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.
• Experience managing complex engineering projects and leading technical teams.
• Familiarity with emissions regulations and validation processes.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, and opportunities for professional development.
• Employees will benefit from working in a state-of-the-art facility in Port Elizabeth, a collaborative team environment, and the chance to work on cutting-edge automotive technology.
• We also provide a generous paid time off policy and a retirement savings plan.

Join us and be a part of shaping the future of automotive propulsion.