Senior Mechanical Engineer - Automotive Powertrain Development

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

State-of-the-art testing facilities

East London facility

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead Powertrain Development for advanced vehicle platforms in East London, Eastern Cape. You will design, analyze, and validate engine and transmission components, focusing on performance, efficiency and durability.

You will use CATIA or Siemens NX for 3D modeling, conduct FEA/CFD analyses with ANSYS/NASTRAN, perform dyno tests, collaborate with calibration, materials and manufacturing teams, and mentor junior engineers while staying abreast of

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 8+ years in mechanical design with powertrain emphasis.
• Proficiency in CATIA/Siemens NX and FEA/CFD tools.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize mechanical components for engines and transmissions.
• Model with CATIA/Siemens NX and create drawings and tolerances.
• Perform stress, fatigue, thermal, and vibration analyses with ANSYS/NASTRAN.
• Validate designs through dyno and component testing.
• Mentor junior engineers and support manufacturability.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Education

Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA

Siemens NX

ANSYS

NASTRAN

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the automotive manufacturing sector, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Mechanical Engineer to focus on Powertrain Development for their advanced vehicle platforms in East London, Eastern Cape . This role is critical for the design, analysis, and validation of engine and transmission components, ensuring optimal performance, efficiency, and durability. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of internal combustion engines, hybrid systems, and associated mechanical components, coupled with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. You will be part of a dynamic engineering team driving the future of automotive propulsion. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the development of next-generation powertrains within a leading automotive hub.

Key Responsibilities

Design, develop, and optimize mechanical components for automotive engines and transmissions, including critical parts like crankshafts, camshafts, gears, and bearings. Utilize advanced CAD software (e.g., CATIA, Siemens NX) for detailed 3D modeling and create precise engineering drawings and tolerance stacks. Perform complex engineering analyses, including stress, fatigue, thermal, and vibration analysis, using FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN). Conduct performance simulations and validate designs through rigorous physical testing (e.g., dyno testing, component testing). Collaborate closely with engine calibration engineers, materials specialists, and manufacturing engineers to ensure design feasibility and manufacturability. Ensure powertrain components meet stringent performance, emissions, NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness), and durability targets. Select appropriate materials and manufacturing processes, considering factors such as strength, weight, thermal properties, and cost. Develop comprehensive technical documentation, including design reports, test procedures, and failure analysis reports. Mentor junior engineers, providing technical guidance and fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation in powertrain engineering. Stay abreast of emerging powertrain technologies, including electrification, alternative fuels, and advanced combustion strategies.

Requirements

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline. A minimum of 8 years of professional experience in mechanical design, with a significant focus on automotive powertrain components (engines and/or transmissions). Proven expertise in CAD software (e.g., CATIA, Siemens NX) and advanced simulation tools (FEA/CFD). Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, tribology, and materials science relevant to powertrain applications. Experience with design for high-volume manufacturing and associated quality control methods. Demonstrated ability to manage engineering projects and deliver results in a fast-paced environment. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams. Familiarity with automotive industry standards and regulations (e.g., SAE, EPA emissions). Experience with hybrid or electric vehicle powertrain components is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, comprehensive medical, dental, and retirement benefits, and opportunities for career advancement within the automotive industry.
• This role provides access to state-of-the-art testing facilities and cutting-edge development projects.
• The position is based at our client's modern manufacturing and R&D center in East London, Eastern Cape , fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Additional benefits include generous paid time off, performance bonuses, and ongoing professional development opportunities.