Senior Automotive Test Engineer

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Bonuses

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting for a Senior Automotive Test Engineer for a leading global automotive manufacturer in Polokwane, Limpopo. The role focuses on planning, executing, and analyzing tests for components and full vehicles to ensure quality and performance.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years of automotive testing experience, strong knowledge of vehicle dynamics, data acquisition, and reporting. This is a hands-on, deadline-driven position offering professional growth and a collaborative

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in automotive testing and validation.
• Strong understanding of vehicle dynamics, powertrain and chassis systems.
• Proficiency with data acquisition systems and testing software.

Responsibilities

• Plan, design, and execute test plans for automotive components, systems, and vehicles.
• Develop and implement testing methodologies (durability, performance, environmental).
• Operate and maintain test equipment (dynamometers, environmental chambers, data systems).
• Analyze test data, generate detailed reports with findings and recommendations.
• Identify and troubleshoot issues, collaborate with engineering teams to implement solutions.
• Ensure testing complies with standards, safety regulations, and quality benchmarks.
• Contribute to process improvements and mentoring of junior engineers.
• Manage test schedules and resources to meet deadlines.
• Stay updated on advancements in automotive testing techniques.

Skills

Vehicle dynamics

Data acquisition

Automotive testing

CAE knowledge

Analytical thinking

Technical reporting

Project management

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Automotive Engineering

Tools

Data acquisition systems

Automotive testing software

Dynamometers

Environmental chambers

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally renowned automotive manufacturer, is seeking a dedicated Senior Automotive Test Engineer to join their state‑of‑the‑art facility in Polokwane, Limpopo . This role is integral to ensuring the quality, reliability, and performance of new vehicle models and components through rigorous testing procedures. You will be responsible for planning, executing, and analyzing a wide range of tests, from component‑level validation to full vehicle dynamics. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in automotive engineering, extensive experience in test methodologies, and a keen eye for detail. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the development of cutting‑edge vehicles within a company that values precision and excellence, located in the scenic province of Limpopo .

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, design, and execute comprehensive test plans for automotive components, systems, and entire vehicles.
• Develop and implement various testing methodologies, including durability, performance, environmental, and functional testing.
• Operate and maintain test equipment, including dynamometers, environmental chambers, and data acquisition systems.
• Analyze test data, interpret results, and generate detailed technical reports documenting findings and recommendations.
• Identify and troubleshoot issues discovered during testing, collaborating with engineering teams to implement solutions.
• Ensure all testing activities comply with industry standards, safety regulations, and company quality benchmarks.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of testing processes and procedures.
• Train and mentor junior test engineers, providing technical guidance and support.
• Manage test schedules and resources effectively to meet project deadlines.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in automotive technology and testing techniques.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in automotive testing and validation, with a proven track record.
• Strong understanding of vehicle dynamics, powertrain systems, chassis components, and vehicle electronics.
• Proficiency with data acquisition systems, sensors, and automotive testing software.
• Experience in planning and executing durability, performance, and environmental tests.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and technical specifications.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical‑thinking skills.
• Strong report writing and presentation skills.
• Experience with simulation tools (e.g., CAE) is a plus.
• Project management experience and the ability to manage multiple tasks concurrently.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and performance‑based bonuses.
• We provide extensive opportunities for professional development, including advanced technical training and the chance to work on diverse and challenging projects.
• The role is based at our facility in Polokwane , offering a stable and professional working environment.