Senior Automotive Test and Validation Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automotive Test and Validation Engineer for Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will plan, execute, and analyze tests to ensure the reliability of automotive components and systems, leading validation efforts and developing robust test strategies.

You will mentor junior engineers, manage test schedules, and ensure compliance with ISO/SAE. The role supports a hybrid work model in Stellenbosch, offering opportunities to work on cutting-edge automotive technologies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical or Automotive Engineering or related field
• At least 7 years of progressive experience in automotive test and validation engineering
• Experience planning and executing a variety of automotive tests
• Proficiency with data acquisition systems and analysis software (CANape, MATLAB)
• Familiarity with powertrain, chassis and body electronics
• Understanding of failure analysis techniques and root cause investigation
• Experience with environmental and durability testing
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and communication skills
• Ability to lead and mentor junior engineers

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement detailed test plans for automotive components and systems
• Oversee setup and execution of durability, environmental, performance and functional tests
• Operate and maintain test equipment including dynamometers and data acquisition systems
• Collect, analyze and report test data with findings and recommendations
• Identify design or manufacturing issues through testing and collaborate with engineering teams to resolve them
• Ensure testing complies with ISO, SAE and company quality requirements
• Mentor junior test engineers and share testing methodologies
• Contribute to continuous improvement of test processes
• Manage test schedules and resources to meet deadlines

Skills

Automotive testing experience

Analytical skills

Leadership/mentoring

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field

Tools

CANape

MATLAB

Data acquisition systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned automotive manufacturer, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Automotive Test and Validation Engineer to join their dynamic team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This critical role involves planning, executing, and analyzing a wide range of tests to ensure the reliability, durability, and performance of automotive components and systems. You will be responsible for developing comprehensive test strategies, managing test equipment, and leading validation efforts to meet rigorous industry standards. The ideal candidate possesses a strong technical background in automotive engineering, exceptional analytical skills, and a meticulous approach to quality assurance. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the development of cutting-edge automotive technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement detailed test plans and procedures for automotive components and systems, including mechanical, electrical, and software aspects.


• Oversee the setup and execution of various tests, such as durability testing, environmental testing, performance testing, and functional testing.


• Operate and maintain test equipment, including dynamometers, environmental chambers, and data acquisition systems.


• Collect, analyze, and interpret test data, generating comprehensive reports with findings and recommendations.


• Identify design or manufacturing issues through testing and collaborate with engineering teams to resolve them.


• Ensure all testing activities comply with relevant industry standards (e.g., ISO, SAE) and company quality requirements.


• Mentor junior test engineers and provide technical guidance on testing methodologies and equipment usage.


• Contribute to the continuous improvement of test processes and methodologies.


• Manage test schedules and resources effectively to meet project deadlines.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.


• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in automotive test and validation engineering.


• Proven experience in planning and executing a variety of automotive tests.


• Proficiency with data acquisition systems and analysis software (e.g., CANape, MATLAB).


• Familiarity with automotive components and systems, including powertrain, chassis, and body electronics.


• Understanding of failure analysis techniques and root cause investigation.


• Experience with environmental testing (temperature, humidity, vibration) and durability testing.


• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.


• Strong communication and report-writing abilities.


• Ability to lead and mentor junior engineers.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, including comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits. You will have access to professional development opportunities, including advanced training and exposure to new technologies. This role provides the chance to work on exciting and challenging projects within a well-established automotive company. The hybrid work model in Stellenbosch allows for a flexible approach to work-life balance, blending essential in-office collaboration with focused remote work.