Performance Engineer - Ford Racing

VENTURE ENGINEERING; Witney; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading motorsport engineering firm in the UK seeks a Performance Engineer to enhance car and driver performance through advanced data analysis and simulation modelling. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in high-level motorsport, showcasing expertise in performance data analysis and the use of tools like MATLAB and MoTeC. This role emphasizes critical thinking and effective communication skills to support the racing team in achieving competitive advantages.

Qualifications

• Proven track record of success as a Performance Engineer at top-level motorsport.
• Calm, clear decision-making combined with technical excellence.
• Strong passion for performance enhancement.

Responsibilities

• Lead collection and analysis of vehicle and driver telemetry data.
• Identify performance trends and opportunities for improvement.
• Develop and maintain simulation models to predict car performance.

Skills

Data analysis

Simulation modelling

Telematics

Critical thinking

Communication

Tools

MATLAB

MoTeC

Pi Toolbox

Job description

About Us

In 1901, Henry Ford designed and built the race car called “Sweepstakes.” On October 10th of that year, he drove Sweepstakes against Alexander Winton, a famous racer and builder. Against all odds Ford won. That was the beginning “the race that changed the world” and it continues to this day. From our victories at Le Mans in 1966 and exactly fifty years later in 2016, to multiple World Championships, the spirit of Henry Ford lives with us every day through our motorsport efforts around the world.

About the Role

This is a career-defining opportunity to take a pivotal role in one of the most competitive and prestigious racing series in the world. The Performance Engineer is the specialist in unlocking car and driver performance through advanced data analysis, simulation modelling, and setup optimisation. Your expertise will ensure the team consistently delivers competitive pace, reliability, and operational excellence.

Our ideal candidate will have a proven track record of success as a Performance Engineer at the top level of motorsport, combining calm, clear decision-making with technical excellence and a passion for performance.

Key Responsibilities

The Performance Engineer provides the technical insight and data-driven expertise that powers the team’s decision-making, ensuring every possible advantage is identified and utilised. Your evidence-based insights will shape setup decisions, driver development, and long-term car improvements. This role demands analytical precision, clear communication, and a relentless pursuit of performance gains in one of the most challenging environments in motorsport.

Performance Data Analysis, Simulation & Modelling

• Lead the collection, interpretation, and analysis of vehicle and driver telemetry data across practice, qualifying, and race sessions.
• Identify performance trends, reliability concerns, and opportunities for improvement in car behaviour and driver technique.
• Use advanced tools and software (e.g., MATLAB, MoTeC, Pi Toolbox) to produce clear, actionable reports for the Race Engineer and team.
• Translate complex datasets into insights that can be understood and acted upon quickly by the wider team.
• Develop and maintain simulation models to predict car performance under different track conditions, setups, and weather scenarios.
• Run pre-event simulations to guide setup decisions and strategic planning.
• Validate trackside performance by comparing