Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Automotive

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for their client in Paarl, Western Cape. You will lead mechanical design, validation, and integration of automotive components for next-generation vehicles.

The role requires 8+ years in automotive mechanical design, expert CATIA V5/V6 and CAE tools (ANSYS, Abaqus), strong problem-solving and collaboration skills, and willingness to travel as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or closely related field.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive experience in mechanical design engineering in automotive.
• Expert proficiency in CATIA V5/V6 and CAE tools (AN-SYS, Abaqus).
• Strong understanding of automotive systems and product development lifecycle.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of automotive components and systems.
• Use CAD software for 3D modeling, surfacing, and detailed drawings.
• Perform FEA and simulations with ANSYS or Abaqus to validate designs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams across product development and manufacturing.
• Develop and execute test plans; analyze data and refine designs.
• Ensure designs comply with automotive standards and customer specs.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Decision making

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA V5/V6

SOLIDWORKS

ANSYS

Abaqus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer of advanced automotive components, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their cutting-edge research and development facility in Paarl, Western Cape . This pivotal role involves the design, development, and validation of complex mechanical systems for next-generation vehicles. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of automotive engineering principles, a strong command of CAD/CAE tools, and a proven ability to drive innovation from concept to production. You will work within a collaborative team environment, tackling challenging design problems and contributing to the development of high-performance, reliable automotive solutions. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence the future of automotive technology in the heart of the Western Cape 's industrial landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of automotive components and systems, ensuring performance, durability, and manufacturability.
• Utilize advanced CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5/V6, SOLIDWORKS) for 3D modeling, surfacing, and creating detailed manufacturing drawings.
• Perform complex engineering analyses, including Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for stress, thermal, and vibration simulations using tools like ANSYS or Abaqus.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product development, manufacturing, testing, and quality assurance.
• Develop and execute test plans for prototypes and production parts; analyze test data and implement design refinements.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant automotive industry standards, regulations, and customer specifications.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for assigned design tasks, reporting progress to management.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance within the mechanical design team in Paarl.
• Troubleshoot design-related issues encountered during development, testing, or production phases.
• Stay updated with the latest automotive technologies, materials, and design trends.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in mechanical design engineering, with a significant focus on the automotive industry.
• Expert proficiency in industry-standard automotive CAD software (CATIA V5/V6 preferred) and CAE tools (ANSYS, Abaqus).
• Strong understanding of automotive systems (e.g., powertrain, chassis, suspension, thermal management).
• Proven experience in product development lifecycle management from concept to launch.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team and present technical information clearly.
• Experience with DFM (Design for Manufacturing) and DFA (Design for Assembly) principles.
• Knowledge of automotive quality systems (e.g., APQP, PPAP) is advantageous.
• Ability to travel domestically or internationally as required for project needs.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package and a comprehensive benefits program, including medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and performance-based bonuses. We are committed to fostering employee growth through continuous training, professional development opportunities, and exposure to cutting-edge automotive technology. This role provides an excellent opportunity to advance your career within a leading automotive supplier in Paarl, Western Cape . The work environment is dynamic and collaborative, and the company values innovation and employee well-being.