Driver Academy Engineer

Atlassian; Grove; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Williams F1 Team is seeking a Driver Academy Engineer to develop Academy drivers as they transition from karting to single-seater racing. You will build the technical foundation drivers need to progress through F4, Formula Regional and FIA F3/F2, combining Driver-in-Loop simulator work, trackside support and data-led performance analysis.

This hands-on role shapes junior talent and provides a clear path to Formula 1.

Qualifications

• Experience as a race, data or performance engineer in single-seater categories.
• Strong knowledge of vehicle dynamics and car setup.
• Proficiency with data analysis and telemetry software.
• Willingness to travel extensively and work demanding schedules.

Responsibilities

• Plan, run and debrief Driver-in-Loop (DIL) simulator sessions for Academy drivers, from F4 to F2.
• Act as performance/data engineer at races/tests across F4/Regional/F3/F2 with engineers.
• Analyze telemetry, video and timing data to shape driver development plans.
• Produce clear, structured reports on driver and simulator performance.
• Deliver technical debriefs to drivers with actionable coaching points.
• Maintain knowledge of regulations, car characteristics and trends across series.
• Support scouting and assessment of prospective Academy drivers via data and observation.
• Collaborate with engineers and teams to align driver development priorities.
• Refine data analysis tools, templates and KPIs; coordinate with Sport Science for fitness programs.
• Liaise with Academy Coordinator on simulator scheduling, travel and events.

Skills

Vehicle Dynamics

Data Analysis

Driver Performance Coaching

Junior Single-Seater Knowledge

Communication

NDA Awareness

Tools

Motec

Marelli

Atlas

Cosworth Pi

Job description

Williams F1 Team is looking for a Driver Academy Engineer to develop our Academy drivers as they transition from karting into single-seater racing. You will build the technical foundation drivers need to progress through F4, Formula Regional and FIA F3/F2, combining structured Driver-in-Loop (DIL) simulator work, trackside engineering support and data-led performance analysis. This is a hands-on, high-impact role at the heart of how Williams develops the next generation of racing talent, and a genuine route to gaining the experience needed to progress towards Formula 1.

• Plan, run and debrief Driver-in-Loop (DIL) simulator sessions for Academy drivers, from F4 level all the way up to F2 with particular focus on those transitioning from karting into single-seater categories.
• Act as performance/data engineer at selected races and tests across F4, Formula Regional and FIA F3/F2, working alongside each drivers team engineers. This would include TPC Testing for our drivers in F2 / F3.
• Analyse car and driver data (telemetry, video and timing) to identify performance gaps and shape individual driver development plans.
• Produce clear, structured written reports on driver and simulator performance for the Academy Director and wider Academy team.
• Deliver technical debriefs directly to drivers, translating data into actionable coaching points on car set-up, driving technique and race craft.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of technical regulations, car characteristics and competitive trends across F4, Formula Regional and FIA F3/F2.
• Support scouting and assessment of prospective Academy drivers through data analysis and on-track observation.
• Collaborate with team engineers, race engineers and partner teams to align on driver development priorities.
• Continuously refine the data analysis tools, templates and KPIs used to track driver progression. Liaise with the Sport Science department and the Academy Coordinator to integrate individual fitness programs into the driving schedules.
• Liaise with the Academy Coordinator on simulator scheduling, travel and event logistics. This role offers direct exposure to the drivers, engineers and teams shaping the future of Williams F1 Team, along with a clear opportunity to build the skills and track record needed to progress towards Formula 1.
• A strong background as a race, data or performance engineer in single-seater categories (F4, Formula Regional, F3 or F2), ideally with exposure to junior or development drivers.
• Good understanding of vehicle dynamics and car set-up, with strong working knowledge of F4, Formula Regional and FIA F3/F2 technical regulations and cars.
• Proficiency with data analysis and telemetry software (for example Motec, Marelli, Atlas or Cosworth Pi Toolbox), and experience with DIL/simulator platforms.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build trust and rapport with drivers, engineers, team managers and partner teams.
• Experience handling sensitive, confidential information under NDA.
• Willingness to travel extensively and work demanding schedules, including evenings, weekends and international events.

It would also be great if you have:

• Experience with simulator/DIL systems (for example rFactor, iRacing, or bespoke DIL rigs).
• Prior experience working directly with junior or development drivers.
• A karting background, or a strong understanding of the karting to single-seater transition.

Core competencies

• Vehicle Dynamics & Car Set-up: a strong understanding of single-seater car behaviour, set-up and the trade-offs drivers face at each level.
• Data Analysis & Telemetry: expert use of telemetry and data tools to interpret car and driver performance and translate it into clear insight.
• Driver Performance Coaching: the ability to convert data into clear, actionable feedback that develops driving technique and race craft.
• Junior Single-Seater Category Knowledge: in-depth understanding of F4, Formula Regional and FIA F3/F2 regulations, cars and the competitive landscape.
• Communication & Reporting: the ability to produce clear written reports and communicate confidently with drivers, engineers and management.
• Adaptability & Resilience: comfortable operating in a fast-paced, travel intensive race environment with shifting priorities.

For almost 50 years, Atlassian Williams F1 Team has been at the forefront of one of the fastest sports on the planet, being one of the top three most successful teams in history competing in the FIA Formula 1 World Championship. With an almost unrivalled heritage of engineering and racing F1 cars and unforgettable eras that demonstrate it is a force to be reckoned with, the British squad boasts 16 F1 World Championship titles to its name. Atlassian Williams F1 Team is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusion. We are happy to discuss reasonable job adjustments.