Performance Engineer

Hendrick Motorsports, a leading NASCAR Motorsports operation, is currently seeking a Performance Engineer. This is a key technical role responsible for optimizing vehicle performance through data analysis, simulation, and testing. This position requires a highly motivated individual with a strong work ethic, an in-depth understanding of vehicle dynamics, and a willingness to do what it takes to achieve team goals in a fast-paced motorsport environment.

Primary Responsibilities:

Data Analysis and Simulation

• Use advanced analytics tools to process and interpret test results, providing actionable insights for performance optimization.
• Develop and deploy custom software or scripts to enhance testing and performance evaluation.
• Plan, execute, and analyze Driver-in-the-Loop (DiL) simulations and ensure alignment with track performance.

Testing and Vehicle Development

• Develop test plans and analyze data from testing equipment, including kinematic & compliance rigs, 7-post rigs, and push-up rigs.
• Collaborate with testing teams to ensure simulation results correlate with on-track performance.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance testing and development efficiency.

Trackside Support

• Provide real-time support during track events, including tuning and setup adjustments based on telemetry and driver feedback.
• Troubleshoot performance issues and recommend solutions during testing and competition.
• Work closely with drivers, race engineers, and crew chiefs to implement performance improvements.

Collaboration and Communication

• Partner with design, manufacturing, and testing teams to achieve performance objectives.
• Clearly communicate technical data, findings, and recommendations to team members across all levels of the organization.
• Prepare and present regular performance reports to engineering and race teams.

Tire and System Optimization

• Analyze and interpret tire data to inform setup changes and improve performance.

Qualifications and Skills:

Experience:

• Experience in data analytics and programming for performance evaluation.

Technical Skills:

• Strong background in vehicle dynamics, simulation, and ride development.
• Familiarity with data analysis tools and programming languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or similar).
• Technical aptitude – ability to comprehend complex technical topics and specialized information.

Core Competencies:

• Accountability – accepts responsibility and accounts for actions.
• Accuracy – performs work accurately and thoroughly.
• Analytical Skills – applies critical thinking and reasoning to solve problems.
• Problem Solving – proactively finds solutions to work-related issues.
• Decision Making – makes critical decisions following company procedures.
• Deductive Reasoning – applies logical or scientific principles to practical problems.
• Detail-Oriented – pays attention to the minute details of a project or task.
• Organized – demonstrates systematic task and project management skills.
• Adaptability – effectively responds to change in the workplace.
• Safety Awareness – identifies and corrects conditions affecting safety.

Communication Skills:

• Verbal Communication – communicates effectively with others verbally.
• Written Communication – clearly and concisely articulates ideas in writing.
• Coordination – adjusts actions in relation to others’ activities.

Leadership and Interpersonal Abilities:

• Strong leadership and organizational abilities.
• Effective collaboration with teams to achieve common goals.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills.

Additional Requirements:

• Passion for motorsports and a deep understanding of vehicle performance engineering.
• Ability to thrive in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.