Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Automotive Components

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

State-of-the-art facility in JOHANNESB

Comprehensive medical aid

provident fund

International travel opportunities

Career advancement prospects

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join a global automotive components manufacturer in Johannesburg, Gauteng. You will lead design and development of complex mechanical systems for next-generation vehicles, including concept, CAD modeling, simulations, and testing to meet performance and regulatory standards.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in automotive design, strong CATIA/SolidWorks and CAE/FEA experience, and a track record of delivering robust, cost-effective

Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or closely related field.
• Minimum 7 years progressive mechanical design experience, automotive focus.
• Expert in 3D CAD and CAE/FEA tools.
• Strong understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, and product lifecycles.
• Knowledge of automotive standards and regulatory requirements.
• Proven ability to lead projects and manage timelines.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design process for automotive components from concept to production.
• Create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings using CATIA/SolidWorks.
• Perform FEA and simulations to assess structure, thermal behavior, and materials.
• Develop test plans for prototypes and production parts; analyze results.
• Collaborate with electrical, manufacturing, QA and supply chain teams.
• Research materials and processes to optimize design and cost.
• Ensure designs meet industry standards and customer specs.
• Mentor junior engineers and guide the design cycle.
• Troubleshoot design issues during prototyping, testing, or production.

Skills

Mechanical design experience

CAD/CAM expertise

CA E/FEA tools

Project leadership

Regulatory knowledge

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA V5/V6

SolidWorks

ANSYS

Abaqus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned global manufacturer of advanced automotive components, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their innovative team in Johannesburg , Gauteng. This critical role involves leading the design and development of complex mechanical systems and components for next-generation vehicles. You will be responsible for conceptualizing, designing, simulating, and testing new parts, ensuring they meet stringent performance, safety, and regulatory standards. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of mechanical engineering principles, proficiency in CAD/CAE software, and a proven track record in automotive product development. This is an excellent opportunity to work on cutting-edge automotive technology and contribute significantly to a market leader within the Gauteng region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design process for new automotive components and systems, from concept generation to production release.
• Utilize advanced CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks, AutoCAD) to create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings.
• Perform Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and other simulations using CAE tools to evaluate structural integrity, thermal performance, and material behavior.
• Develop and execute comprehensive test plans for prototypes and production parts, analyze results, and implement design modifications as needed.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineering, manufacturing, quality assurance, and supply chain, to ensure design feasibility and successful product launch.
• Research and recommend materials, manufacturing processes, and technologies to optimize component design and cost-effectiveness.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant industry standards, regulations, and customer specifications.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance throughout the design and development cycle.
• Troubleshoot and resolve design-related issues that arise during prototyping, testing, or production.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in mechanical design, with a significant focus on automotive components.
• Expert proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5/V6, SolidWorks) and strong experience with CAE/FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus).
• In-depth knowledge of materials science, manufacturing processes (e.g., injection molding, machining, casting), and product development lifecycles.
• Strong understanding of automotive industry standards and regulatory requirements.
• Proven ability to lead design projects, manage timelines, and collaborate effectively in a team environment.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience working in the Johannesburg area or within the South African automotive sector is preferred.

Benefits

• This full-time position offers a highly competitive annual salary, commensurate with experience and expertise.
• You will be based at our client's state-of-the-art facility in Johannesburg .
• Benefits include comprehensive medical aid.
• A generous provident fund.
• Opportunities for international travel and training.
• Significant career advancement prospects within a global organization.
• Our client is committed to fostering a culture of innovation and provides a challenging yet rewarding work environment.
• Join a team that is shaping the future of the automotive industry in Gauteng .