Senior Mechanical Engineer - Automotive Powertrain Systems

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Bonus incentives

Training opportunities

Paid leave & holidays

Cutting-edge facilities

Global engineering network

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Mechanical Engineer to join its Powertrain Systems division in Bloemfontein, Free State. You will lead design, development, and testing of engines, transmissions, and driveline components for advanced powertrains.

You will use CAD and simulation tools to optimize performance, reliability, and efficiency, collaborating with calibration and manufacturing teams to deliver robust, production-ready solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in mechanical design and development, specializing in automotive powertrain systems.
• Proven experience with CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA) and powertrain simulation tools.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and mechanical vibrations in engines and transmissions.
• Experience with powertrain testing methodologies and equipment.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a systematic design approach.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Familiarity with automotive industry standards and practices.
• Experience with hybrid or electric vehicle powertrains is a significant advantage.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components for automotive powertrains, including engines, transmissions, drivelines, and related systems.
• Perform detailed CAD modeling, stress analysis, and thermal analysis using advanced simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, GT-SUITE).
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to ensure designs are optimized for production feasibility and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct experimental testing and validation of powertrain components and systems, analyzing results and identifying areas for improvement.
• Work closely with calibration engineers to optimize powertrain performance, efficiency, and emissions.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including design specifications, test reports, and manufacturing drawings.
• Troubleshoot and resolve design issues that arise during development, testing, or production phases.
• Stay current with emerging powertrain technologies, including electrification and alternative fuels.

Skills

Powertrain design

CAD modeling

Powertrain simulation

Analytical thinking

Teamwork

Engineering standards

Hybrid/EV knowledge

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

Powertrain simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading automotive manufacturer known for its performance and innovation, is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to join their dedicated Powertrain Systems division in Bloemfontein, Free State . This role is crucial for the design, development, and testing of advanced engine and transmission components. You will be instrumental in driving the next generation of fuel-efficient and high-performance powertrains. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of internal combustion engines, hybrid systems, or electric vehicle powertrains, coupled with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. This is a hands-on position that requires a deep understanding of mechanical engineering principles applied to complex automotive systems. We are looking for a proactive and results-oriented engineer who can contribute significantly to the development of future mobility solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components for automotive powertrains, including engines, transmissions, drivelines, and related systems.
• Perform detailed CAD modeling, stress analysis, and thermal analysis using advanced simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, GT-SUITE).
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to ensure designs are optimized for production feasibility and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct experimental testing and validation of powertrain components and systems, analyzing results and identifying areas for improvement.
• Work closely with calibration engineers to optimize powertrain performance, efficiency, and emissions.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including design specifications, test reports, and manufacturing drawings.
• Troubleshoot and resolve design issues that arise during development, testing, or production phases.
• Stay current with emerging powertrain technologies, including electrification and alternative fuels.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in mechanical design and development, with a specialization in automotive powertrain systems.
• Proven experience with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) and powertrain simulation tools.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and mechanical vibrations as applied to engines and transmissions.
• Experience with powertrain testing methodologies and equipment.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a systematic approach to design challenges.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Familiarity with automotive industry standards and practices.
• Experience with hybrid or electric vehicle powertrains is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance-driven bonus incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance packages.
• Retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions.
• Generous annual leave and paid holiday time.
• Opportunities for professional growth and training in advanced automotive technologies.
• Access to cutting-edge powertrain development and testing facilities.
• A dynamic work environment within a leading automotive brand.
• Potential for career advancement within the company's global engineering network.