Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Automotive Systems

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for a leading automotive manufacturer in Pietermaritzburg. You will lead the design and development of complex mechanical systems for next-generation vehicles, driving innovation while ensuring quality and performance.

The role requires 7+ years in mechanical design, CAD proficiency (SolidWorks, CATIA, AutoCAD), FEA/CFD experience, and strong collaboration across engineering teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering; Master’s degree preferred.
• 7+ years of progressive mechanical design experience in automotive.
• Proven CAD proficiency: SolidWorks/CATIA/AutoCAD for 3D modeling, drafting, and assemblies.
• Experience with FEA/CFD simulations and cross-functional collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of intricate automotive mechanical components and systems.
• Perform detailed analyses (FEA/CFD) to validate and optimize designs.
• Produce technical docs: specs, drawings, BOMs, validation reports.
• Collaborate with electrical, manufacturing, and product teams for manufacturability.
• Oversee prototype testing and implement corrective actions.
• Mentor junior engineers and foster technical excellence.
• Stay updated with industry standards and drive design process improvements.
• Ensure compliance with relevant standards and safety requirements.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

AutoCAD

FEA/CFD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the automotive manufacturing sector, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their dynamic team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This pivotal role involves leading the design and development of complex mechanical systems for next-generation vehicles. You will be instrumental in driving innovation, ensuring product quality, and meeting stringent performance targets. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge automotive technology within a supportive and growth-oriented environment. The successful candidate will leverage their expertise to tackle challenging engineering problems and contribute to the company's continued success in the competitive automotive landscape. We are looking for a proactive and results-driven individual who thrives in a collaborative setting and possesses a strong understanding of mechanical principles and their practical application in automotive design. This position offers a blend of on-site collaboration and remote flexibility, ensuring a balanced work-life integration. The Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal location provides a vibrant industrial hub for innovation and manufacturing excellence, making it an ideal place to advance your engineering career.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and development of intricate mechanical components and systems for automotive applications, adhering to project timelines and budget constraints.
• Conduct detailed engineering analysis, including Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), to validate designs and optimize performance.
• Prepare comprehensive technical documentation, including design specifications, drawings, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and validation reports.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineering, manufacturing, and product management, to ensure seamless integration and manufacturability of designs.
• Oversee prototype development, testing, and validation processes, troubleshooting any issues that arise and implementing corrective actions.
• Mentor and guide junior engineering staff, fostering a culture of continuous learning and technical excellence.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in mechanical engineering, automotive technology, and industry best practices to drive innovation.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and methodologies within the engineering department.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant industry standards, regulations, and safety requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field; a Master's degree is a plus.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in mechanical design engineering, with a significant focus on the automotive industry.
• Proven expertise in using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, AutoCAD) for 3D modeling, drafting, and assembly design.
• Strong understanding of mechanical principles, including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, stress analysis, and materials science.
• Experience with simulation and analysis tools (FEA/CFD software).
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex engineering projects from concept to production.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with diverse teams.
• Familiarity with automotive manufacturing processes and standards (e.g., APQP, PPAP).
• A proactive attitude and a passion for innovation in automotive engineering.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of R.
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.
• Access to state-of-the-art engineering facilities and technology.
• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.
• A collaborative and inclusive work environment that values employee contributions.
• Potential for career advancement within a growing global organization.