Senior Mechanical Design Engineer (Automotive)

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for an automotive client in Pretoria, Gauteng. You will drive design, analysis and optimization of powertrain, chassis and thermal systems using CATIA V5 and NX, with strong FEA experience.

The role covers concept through testing, BOM creation, and collaboration with electrical/software teams, mentoring junior engineers in a fast-paced hybrid work setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years of relevant automotive design experience.
• Proficiency in CATIA V5 and NX with CAE/FEA capability.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize mechanical components for automotive applications.
• Perform FEA for stress, thermal and vibration analyses.
• Create 3D models, 2D drawings, and BOM documentation.
• Collaborate with electrical, software and manufacturing teams.
• Support prototypes and validation testing; drive design improvements.

Skills

CATIA V5

Siemens NX

FEA

Automotive design

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

APQP

PPAP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the automotive manufacturing sector, is seeking a talented Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their innovative team based in Pretoria, Gauteng . This role is crucial for developing and refining advanced automotive components and systems. You will be involved in the entire product lifecycle, from conceptualization and design through to testing and production support. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in automotive mechanical engineering, with expertise in areas such as powertrain, chassis, or thermal management systems. This position offers the opportunity to work with leading-edge automotive technologies and contribute to the design of next-generation vehicles within a collaborative and forward-thinking engineering department. The work environment in Pretoria, Gauteng is fast-paced and dedicated to automotive excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Design, develop, and optimize mechanical components and systems for automotive applications using advanced CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5, Siemens NX). Conduct detailed mechanical analysis, including Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for stress, thermal, and vibration simulations. Create and manage comprehensive engineering documentation, including 3D models, 2D drawings, and Bill of Materials (BOM). Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers, software developers, and manufacturing specialists, to ensure integrated system performance. Support prototype builds and validation testing, analyzing results and implementing design improvements. Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical issues encountered during development and production phases. Ensure designs comply with automotive industry standards (e.g., ISO TS 16949) and customer specifications. Stay updated on emerging automotive technologies and materials to drive innovation. Mentor junior engineers and contribute to team knowledge sharing.

Requirements

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline. A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in mechanical design, preferably within the automotive industry. Proficiency in automotive-specific CAD software (CATIA V5, NX preferred) and CAE tools. Solid understanding of automotive systems, including powertrain, chassis, suspension, or thermal management. Experience with FEA and other simulation techniques for mechanical design validation. Knowledge of automotive manufacturing processes and materials. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with keen attention to detail. Excellent communication and teamwork skills. Familiarity with APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) and PPAP (Production Part Approval Process). Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote and on-site collaboration in Pretoria, Gauteng.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package designed to attract top talent, alongside performance-based bonuses. Comprehensive medical aid, including family coverage, and a robust retirement fund are provided. Opportunities for continuous professional development, including advanced training courses and certifications, are readily available. Employees will enjoy access to state-of-the-art automotive engineering facilities and the chance to work on exciting, cutting-edge vehicle projects. The hybrid work model offers flexibility, while the collaborative team culture in Pretoria, Gauteng promotes innovation and growth. Additional benefits include generous annual leave and employee assistance programs.