Senior Mechanical Engineer - Automotive Powertrain Development

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Paid time off

International travel

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to join the Powertrain Development team in Sandton, Gauteng. You will lead the design, development and validation of next-generation internal combustion engines and hybrid powertrains, coordinating with international teams to drive innovation.

This hybrid role requires a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering, 8+ years in automotive powertrain design, expertise in CATIA V5/V6 and SolidWorks, and extensive FEA (ANSYS/Abaqus).

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 8+ years in automotive powertrain design/engineering.
• Expert CAD (CATIA V5/V6); extensive FEA (ANSYS, Abaqus).

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design and development of powertrain components (engine blocks, heads, crankshafts).
• Use CAD tools for detailed 3D modeling and manufacturing drawings.
• Perform stress, thermal, vibration, and fatigue analyses with FEA tools.
• Collaborate with calibration, systems, and manufacturing engineers to optimize powertrains.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to team technical development.

Skills

CATIA V5/V6

SolidWorks

FEA tools

Engine thermodynamics

Tribology

Materials science

Manufacturing processes

Leadership

Team collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA V5/V6

SolidWorks

ANSYS

Abaqus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned automotive manufacturer, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer to join their advanced Powertrain Development team in Sandton, Gauteng . This role is pivotal in the design, development, and validation of next-generation internal combustion engines and hybrid powertrains. You will lead complex mechanical design tasks, collaborate with international engineering teams, and drive innovation in engine components and systems. This hybrid role balances the need for on-site testing and team collaboration with the flexibility of remote work for design and analysis tasks. The ideal candidate possesses deep expertise in engine mechanics, materials, and manufacturing processes, coupled with strong leadership skills.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the mechanical design and development of critical powertrain components, including engine blocks, cylinder heads, crankshafts, and associated systems. Utilize advanced CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5/V6, SolidWorks) for detailed 3D modeling and the creation of manufacturing drawings. Conduct rigorous mechanical analysis, including stress, thermal, vibration, and fatigue analysis, using FEA tools. Collaborate closely with engine calibration, systems, and manufacturing engineers to ensure integrated and optimized powertrain solutions. Specify materials and manufacturing processes suitable for high-performance engine applications, ensuring compliance with automotive standards. Oversee and participate in prototype build processes, testing, and validation activities, analyzing results and driving design improvements. Ensure all designs meet performance, durability, emissions, and NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) targets. Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the technical development of the team. Manage project tasks and timelines effectively, communicating progress and technical challenges to stakeholders in a hybrid work model. Stay abreast of emerging automotive technologies and industry trends in powertrain development.

Requirements

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in mechanical design engineering, with a specialization in automotive powertrain or engine development. Expert proficiency in CAD software (CATIA V5/V6 preferred) and extensive experience with FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus). Deep understanding of engine thermodynamics, combustion, tribology, materials science, and manufacturing processes relevant to powertrain components. Proven ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing on-site and remote responsibilities. Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical-thinking skills. Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. Experience with engine testing and validation procedures is highly desirable. Must be able to work on-site in Sandton, Gauteng , with hybrid flexibility.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, significant performance-based bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, a robust retirement fund, generous paid time off, and opportunities for international travel and professional development.