Senior Automotive Test Engineer (Vehicle Dynamics)

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus potential

Advanced facilities

Health, dental, vision insurance

Pension plan

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Paarl, Western Cape, is seeking a Senior Automotive Test Engineer specializing in Vehicle Dynamics to lead test programs and validate ride and handling performance. This hands-on role involves planning methodologies, executing tests, and analyzing data to drive design improvements with a strong emphasis on safety and driver engagement.

You will work with advanced test facilities and collaborate with design engineers to ensure vehicles meet high performance and reliability

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering.
• 6+ years in automotive vehicle dynamics testing and validation.
• Deep understanding of vehicle dynamics, suspensions, steering and braking.
• Proficient with data acquisition systems and instrumentation.
• Experience with MATLAB/Simulink or similar software.
• Familiar with CAN and diagnostic tools.
• Strong analytical, reporting, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute vehicle dynamics testing programs for ride, handling, braking and stability.
• Develop test procedures to assess performance against specs.
• Operate and maintain data acquisition systems and test equipment.
• Analyze data with MATLAB/Simulink to identify trends and issues.
• Interpret results and provide actionable reports to engineering teams.
• Collaborate with chassis design engineers to validate modifications.
• Ensure safety protocols during testing.
• Mentor junior test engineers in testing and data analysis.
• Contribute to facility and process improvements.

Skills

Vehicle dynamics testing

Data analysis

MATLAB

CAN protocol

Test instrumentation

Team mentoring

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering

Tools

Vector CANalyzer/CANape

HIL testing tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious automotive manufacturer located in Paarl, Western Cape, is seeking an experienced Senior Automotive Test Engineer with a specialization in Vehicle Dynamics. This crucial role involves planning, executing, and analyzing tests to evaluate and optimize the ride, handling, and braking performance of our vehicles. You will work with state-of-the-art test facilities and equipment, collaborating closely with design and development engineers to ensure our vehicles meet the highest standards of performance and driver engagement. As a Senior Engineer, you will be responsible for defining test methodologies, interpreting complex data, and providing actionable recommendations for design improvements. This is a hands-on position requiring a deep understanding of automotive dynamics and a passion for testing and validation. Your contributions will directly impact the driving experience and safety of our vehicles.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and execute comprehensive vehicle dynamics testing programs, including ride, handling, braking, and stability control evaluations.
• Develop detailed test procedures and methodologies to assess vehicle performance against design specifications and benchmarks.
• Operate and maintain advanced data acquisition systems and test equipment.
• Analyze test data using specialized software (e.g., MATLAB, Vector CANalyzer/CANape) to identify performance characteristics, trends, and potential issues.
• Interpret test results and provide clear, concise reports with actionable recommendations to engineering teams.
• Collaborate closely with chassis design engineers to troubleshoot issues and validate design modifications.
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols during all testing activities.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in vehicle dynamics testing techniques and technologies.
• Mentor and guide junior test engineers in test execution and data analysis.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of test facilities and processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in automotive vehicle dynamics testing and validation.
• In-depth understanding of vehicle dynamics principles, suspension systems, steering, and braking systems.
• Proficiency with data acquisition systems and automotive testing instrumentation.
• Experience with data analysis software such as MATLAB/Simulink or similar.
• Familiarity with automotive communication protocols (e.g., CAN) and diagnostic tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Excellent report writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a test environment.
• A valid driver's license and a clean driving record are essential.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunity to work at a leading automotive company in a specialized field.
• Access to advanced testing facilities and cutting-edge equipment in Paarl, Western Cape .
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan with company contributions.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
• A dynamic and challenging work environment focused on innovation and performance.
• Employee vehicle purchase programs.