Senior Mechanical Engineer - Automotive

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonuses

Relocation assistance

International training opportunities

Medical/dental/vision coverage

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer for our Klerksdorp facility to drive the design, analysis, and validation of advanced automotive components. You will lead projects from concept through production, ensuring compliance with ISO/TS 16949 and other industry standards while collaborating with R&D, manufacturing, and quality teams.

The role requires a master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, 7+ years of automotive-focused design experience, and expertise in CAD/FEA tools (CATIA,

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years progressive mechanical design experience, automotive focus preferred.
• Strong CAD/FEA tool proficiency (CATIA/SolidWorks; ANSYS/Abaqus).
• Excellent communication and leadership skills for cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of mechanical automotive components and systems.
• Perform detailed stress, thermal, vibration, and fatigue analyses using FEA tools.
• Create and maintain CAD models, drawings, and BOMs; ensure DFM and DFA.
• Mentor junior engineers and drive projects from concept to production.
• Ensure designs comply with automotive standards and regulations.

Skills

Leadership

7+ years experience

DFM/ DFA

Analytical thinking

Education

Master's/PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA

SolidWorks

ANSYS

Abaqus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading automotive component manufacturer, is seeking an accomplished Senior Mechanical Engineer to drive innovation and product development within their Klerksdorp facility. This is a critical role focused on the design, analysis, and validation of complex mechanical systems and components for the automotive sector. You will be instrumental in leading projects from concept to production, ensuring adherence to stringent automotive standards (e.g., ISO/TS 16949). The successful candidate will possess a deep understanding of automotive engineering principles, materials, and manufacturing processes. This position offers a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to shape the future of automotive technology within the North West province. We are looking for a hands-on engineer with strong leadership qualities and a passion for automotive excellence. Your expertise will be vital in developing next-generation components and systems that meet the evolving demands of the global automotive market. The role requires significant interaction with cross-functional teams, including R&D, manufacturing, and quality assurance, ensuring a cohesive approach to product development in Klerksdorp .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of mechanical automotive components and systems.
• Perform detailed analysis, including stress, thermal, vibration, and fatigue analysis using FEA tools.
• Create and maintain comprehensive design documentation, including 3D CAD models, 2D drawings, and BOMs.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure DFM (Design for Manufacturing) and DFA (Design for Assembly).
• Oversee prototyping, testing, and validation activities to verify design performance against requirements.
• Manage project timelines and resources effectively, ensuring on-time delivery of design milestones.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues throughout the product lifecycle.
• Stay abreast of automotive industry trends, new technologies, and competitor activities.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the team's technical growth.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant automotive standards and regulations.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in mechanical design, with a significant focus on the automotive industry.
• Extensive experience with CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks) and FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus).
• In-depth knowledge of automotive materials, manufacturing processes (stamping, casting, molding), and industry standards.
• Proven experience in leading complex engineering projects.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
• Experience with NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) analysis is a significant plus.
• Residing in or willing to relocate to the Klerksdorp, North West area.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement savings plan with generous company contributions.
• Opportunities for international training and career advancement.
• Dynamic and innovative work environment focused on cutting-edge automotive technology.
• Generous annual leave and other statutory benefits.
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment.
• Be part of a company driving automotive innovation in North West .