Senior Automotive Systems Architect (Remote)

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Remote work with flexible hours

Professional growth

Health insurance

Vision, dental coverage

Cutting-edge tools

Remote workspace resources

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automotive Systems Architect for a fully remote engineering team, based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. You will define architecture for advanced automotive systems including ADAS, electrification, and connectivity.

Lead cross-functional teams, document models with SysML/UML, ensure ISO 26262 and cybersecurity compliance, and guide subsystems integration from hardware to software.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field.
• 7+ years of automotive systems design and architecture experience.
• Experience with ADAS, infotainment, connectivity, or powertrain control.
• Strong knowledge of CAN, Ethernet, and LIN networks.
• Proficiency in SysML/UML and modeling tools.

Responsibilities

• Define high-level architecture for automotive systems aligned with roadmaps and strategic goals.
• Lead design and integration of subsystems (hardware, software, and networks).
• Collaborate with product managers, software, hardware, and validation teams to define requirements.
• Evaluate emerging automotive technologies and standards.
• Develop architectural models and specifications using standard tools.
• Analyze performance, identify bottlenecks, propose optimizations.
• Conduct architectural reviews and guide development teams.
• Ensure ISO 26262 and cybersecurity principles are followed.

Skills

ADAS architecture

Infotainment systems

Connectivity networks

CAN protocol

Ethernet

LIN protocol

RTOS

SysML/UML modeling

Technical leadership

Remote collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field

Tools

SysML

UML

Embedded RTOS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a trailblazer in automotive electronics and software, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Automotive Systems Architect to join their fully remote engineering team, based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA. This is a pivotal role where you will define and guide the architecture of complex automotive systems, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance. You will be at the forefront of developing next‑generation vehicle architectures, focusing on areas such as autonomous driving, connectivity, and electrification. As a remote‑first organization, we empower our architects to work from anywhere, fostering innovation and collaboration across distributed teams. Your expertise will be crucial in translating cutting‑edge concepts into robust, scalable, and future‑proof automotive solutions. This is a unique chance to influence the direction of automotive technology and lead significant architectural initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and document the high‑level architecture for automotive systems, ensuring alignment with product roadmaps and strategic goals.
• Lead the design and integration of complex automotive subsystems, including hardware, software, and network components.
• Collaborate closely with product managers, software developers, hardware engineers, and validation teams to define system requirements and interfaces.
• Identify and evaluate emerging technologies and standards relevant to automotive systems architecture.
• Develop and maintain architectural models, diagrams, and specifications using industry‑standard tools.
• Analyze system performance, identify bottlenecks, and propose solutions to optimize efficiency and reliability.
• Conduct architectural reviews and provide technical guidance to development teams.
• Ensure adherence to automotive functional safety (ISO 26262) and cybersecurity principles throughout the architecture design.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in automotive systems design and architecture, with a strong emphasis on complex electronic and software systems.
• Proven experience in architecting solutions for areas like ADAS, infotainment, connectivity, or powertrain control.
• Deep understanding of automotive communication protocols (e.g., CAN, Ethernet, LIN) and network architectures.
• Familiarity with embedded systems, microcontrollers, and real‑time operating systems (RTOS).
• Experience with system modeling tools (e.g., SysML, UML) and methods.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts effectively in a remote environment.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical discussions and influence cross‑functional teams.

Benefits

• Highly competitive compensation package, including a generous salary and potential for bonuses.
• Fully remote work arrangement with flexible working hours.
• Opportunity to work on transformative automotive technologies.
• Professional growth and development through advanced training and challenging projects.
• Collaborative and innovative remote work culture.
• Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Access to cutting‑edge tools and technologies.
• Company‑provided resources to ensure a productive remote workspace.