Thabo Mthembu
47 Acacia Drive
Johannesburg, Gauteng
+27 11 555 8342
thabo.mthembu@email.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/thabomthembu

Professional Summary
Detail-oriented Suspension Geometry Engineer with over 8 years of experience in the aerospace and automotive industries. Proven expertise in suspension design, product development, and project management. Adept at utilizing advanced engineering software such as ANSYS and SolidWorks to deliver innovative solutions. Strong background in Design Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (DFMEA) and continuous improvement methodologies like Kaizen. Bilingual in English and Afrikaans, with excellent teamwork and communication skills.

Work History

Suspension Geometry Engineer
Aerodynamic Systems Ltd - Johannesburg, Gauteng
January 2021 - Present
- Lead the design and analysis of suspension systems for aerospace applications, ensuring compliance with industry standards and performance specifications.
- Utilize ANSYS and SolidWorks for modeling and simulation, resulting in a 15% improvement in design efficiency.
- Conduct Design Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (DFMEA) to identify potential design flaws and implement corrective actions.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to streamline product development processes, reducing time-to-market by 20%.
- Mentor junior engineers in best practices for suspension design and project management.

Senior Design Engineer
Precision Automotive Engineering - Pretoria, Gauteng
June 2017 - December 2020
- Developed and optimized suspension components for automotive applications, achieving a 10% weight reduction while maintaining structural integrity.
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to budget constraints.
- Implemented Kaizen principles to enhance design workflows, resulting in a 30% increase in team productivity.
- Coordinated with suppliers and manufacturers to ensure quality and performance standards were met throughout the production process.
- Conducted training sessions on AutoCAD and PDM software for engineering staff.

Mechanical Engineer
TechnoMech Solutions - Cape Town, Western Cape
August 2015 - May 2017
- Assisted in the design and testing of mechanical systems, focusing on suspension and chassis components.
- Collaborated with the engineering team to develop prototypes and conduct performance testing, leading to successful product launches.
- Utilized Visual Basic for Applications to automate data analysis processes, improving reporting accuracy and efficiency.
- Participated in project management activities, including scheduling, resource allocation, and risk assessment.

Academic Background

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
University of the Witwatersrand - Johannesburg, Gauteng
Graduated: May 2015

Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering
Stellenbosch University - Stellenbosch, Western Cape
Graduated: May 2013

Skills
- ANSYS
- AutoCAD
- SolidWorks
- Design Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (DFMEA)
- Project Management
- Product Development
- Mechanical Engineering
- Suspension Design
- Kaizen
- Teamwork
- Time Management
- PDM
- Engineering Software
- Bilingual: English and Afrikaans

Other Information
- Member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
- Certified Project Management Professional (PMP)
- Continuous learner with a passion for innovative engineering solutions.