Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Automotive

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Performance bonus

Professional development

Career progression

Community engagement

Job summary

Placements24 in Mahikeng, North West, is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to lead automotive component and system design from concept to production. You will apply CATIA/SolidWorks, run FEA/thermal analyses, and ensure ISO/TS 16949 compliance while mentoring junior engineers.

The role offers a hybrid work arrangement, collaboration across R&D, manufacturing, and QA, and opportunities to drive innovation in powertrain, chassis, and body structures for major automotive customers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in mechanical design, with a significant focus on the automotive industry.
• Expert proficiency in CATIA V5, SolidWorks and simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus).
• In-depth knowledge of automotive components, systems, manufacturing processes, and materials.
• Experience leading design projects and meeting tight deadlines.
• Strong communication, presentation and interpersonal abilities.
• Familiarity with automotive quality systems and regulatory requirements.
• Ability to work in a hybrid work environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of automotive components and systems (e.g., powertrain, chassis, body structures).
• Utilize CAD software (CATIA, SolidWorks) for 3D modeling and 2D detailing.
• Conduct engineering analyses including FEA, durability, and thermal management.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and QA to ensure successful product integration and launch.
• Develop and maintain detailed design documentation (DFMEAs, BOMs).
• Mentor junior engineers and drive technical growth of the team.
• Stay updated on automotive technologies, materials, and processes.
• Drive continuous improvement in mechanical design methodologies.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Communication

Presentation skills

Interpersonal skills

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA V5

SolidWorks

ANSYS

Abaqus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key supplier to the automotive manufacturing industry, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their team in Mahikeng, North West. This role is integral to the design and development of innovative mechanical components and systems for automotive applications. You will lead complex design projects, from initial concept through to production, ensuring adherence to stringent automotive standards for quality, safety, and performance. The ideal candidate possesses a strong track record in automotive mechanical design, expertise in CAD and simulation tools, and a passion for vehicle engineering excellence. Join a dynamic environment focused on delivering cutting-edge solutions to major automotive manufacturers.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of automotive components and systems (e.g., powertrain, chassis, body structures).
• Utilize advanced CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks) for 3D modeling and 2D detailing.
• Conduct comprehensive engineering analyses, including FEA, durability, and thermal management, to validate designs.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including R&D, manufacturing, and quality assurance, to ensure successful product integration and launch.
• Develop and maintain detailed technical documentation, including design specifications, DFMEAs, and Bills of Materials.
• Manage prototype builds, testing, and validation processes, identifying and resolving design issues promptly.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant automotive industry standards (e.g., ISO/TS 16949) and customer requirements.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the technical growth of the design team.
• Stay abreast of the latest automotive technologies, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Drive innovation and continuous improvement in mechanical design methodologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in mechanical design, with a significant focus on the automotive industry.
• Expert proficiency in industry-standard automotive CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5, SolidWorks) and simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus).
• In-depth knowledge of automotive components, systems, manufacturing processes, and materials.
• Proven experience in leading design projects and working within demanding project timelines.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal abilities.
• Familiarity with automotive quality systems and regulatory requirements.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment.
• A proactive and results-oriented approach to engineering challenges.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive annual salary, comprehensive medical and dental insurance, and a performance bonus structure.
• Opportunities for professional development, advanced training, and career progression within a leading automotive supplier.
• Be part of exciting projects that shape the future of mobility.
• This role is based in Mahikeng, North West, offering a blend of challenging work and local community engagement.
• Contribute to industry-leading innovations.