Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Automotive Components

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Professional development

Hybrid work

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer in Pietermaritzburg to lead design, development, and optimization of automotive components. You will drive projects from concept to production, applying advanced CAD/CAE tools and ensuring quality, reliability, and manufacturability.

The role requires 7+ years in mechanical design for automotive components, strong analytical skills, and collaboration across R&D, manufacturing and QA. Hybrid work balance is offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in mechanical design engineering, automotive components.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAE software (SolidWorks, CATIA, ANSYS).
• Strong understanding of materials science, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and stress analysis.
• Experience with product development lifecycles and stage-gate processes.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Experience in designing for high-volume manufacturing processes is a plus.
• Knowledge of automotive industry standards (ISO/TS 16949) is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization, design, and detailed engineering of new mechanical components and systems for automotive applications.
• Utilize CAD software for 3D modeling, drafting, and simulation (FEA, CFD).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure design feasibility and manufacturability.
• Perform rigorous analysis and testing to validate performance against specs and standards.
• Develop and maintain design documentation, including drawings, BOMs, and reports.
• Troubleshoot and resolve design-related issues across the product lifecycle.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to process and methodology improvements.
• Stay updated on advances in mechanical engineering and automotive design.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and quality standards.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Team collaboration

Communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

ANSYS

FEA

CFD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in automotive technology, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their dynamic team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This is a critical role focused on the design, development, and optimization of cutting-edge automotive components. You will be instrumental in driving projects from conceptualization through to production, ensuring the highest standards of quality, performance, and reliability. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of mechanical principles, advanced CAD skills, and a proven track record in complex engineering projects. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the future of automotive engineering in a collaborative and forward-thinking environment. The successful applicant will work within a hybrid model, balancing essential on-site collaboration with the flexibility of remote work.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and detailed engineering of new mechanical components and systems for automotive applications.
• Utilize advanced CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) for 3D modeling, drafting, and simulation (FEA, CFD).
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including R&D, manufacturing, and quality assurance, to ensure design feasibility and manufacturability.
• Perform rigorous analysis and testing of designs to validate performance against specifications and industry standards.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive design documentation, including technical drawings, BOMs, and reports.
• Troubleshoot and resolve design-related issues throughout the product lifecycle.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and methodologies.
• Stay abreast of the latest technological advancements and industry trends in mechanical engineering and automotive design.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety regulations and quality standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in mechanical design engineering, with a significant focus on automotive components.
• Proficiency in industry-standard CAD/CAE software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, ANSYS).
• Strong understanding of materials science, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and stress analysis.
• Experience with product development lifecycles and stage-gate processes.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Experience in designing for high-volume manufacturing processes is a plus.
• Knowledge of automotive industry standards (e.g., ISO/TS 16949) is desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Employees benefit from comprehensive health insurance, a retirement savings plan, and paid time off.
• Opportunities for professional development, continuous learning, and career advancement are actively supported.
• The hybrid work arrangement provides a flexible work-life balance.
• Join a team that values innovation and rewards dedication in the vibrant setting of Pietermaritzburg.
• Additional perks include subsidized professional development courses and team-building events.