Gearbox Test Engineer

GM Performance Power Units; Concord (NC); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus scheme

Private healthcare

401(k) plan

Employer-paid life insurance

32 days annual leave

Free financial advisor access

Employee Assistance Programs

Subsidized on-site dining

On-site gym

Discounted GM vehicle purchase

Free on-site EV charging

Job summary

GM Performance Power Units in Concord, NC is seeking a Gearbox Test Engineer for the development and validation of Formula 1 transmission systems.

This role includes developing test programs, analyzing data, and collaborating with design and performance teams. Candidates must have a degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering and experience in mechanical testing.

The position offers a factory-based environment with extensive benefits including a bonus scheme and healthcare.

Qualifications

• 3+ years in mechanical testing with motorsport, automotive, or aerospace experience preferred.
• Strong understanding of gear systems, tribology, and lubrication.
• Experience with test rig operation and instrumentation including torque, speed, strain, and temperature measurements.

Responsibilities

• Plan, develop, and execute test programs for gearbox systems.
• Analyze high-resolution test data to assess gear durability.
• Lead root cause analysis of gearbox and component failures.

Skills

Mechanical testing

Data analysis

Gear systems

Tribology

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Job Summary

GM Performance Power Units - Concord, NC
Gearbox Test Engineer - Onsite

The Gearbox Test Engineer is responsible for the development, validation, and reliability testing of Formula 1 transmission systems within a factory environment. This role focuses on dyno testing, rig development, and data-driven engineering to ensure gearbox performance and durability meet the extreme demands of Formula 1 competition. Working closely with design and performance groups, the engineer will lead structured test programs to validate new designs, investigate failures, and drive continuous performance improvements—all without trackside responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

Test Development & Execution

• Plan, develop, and execute rigorous test programs for gearbox systems, including full transmission dyno testing, sub-system and component-level validation, and endurance and accelerated life testing.
• Define test procedures, instrumentation requirements, and acceptance criteria.
• Operate and support advanced test rigs simulating real-world race duty cycles.

Data Analysis & Validation

• Analyze high-resolution test data to assess gear durability, fatigue life, friction losses, efficiency, thermal performance, and oil system behavior.
• Correlate test data with simulation models and historical track data.
• Produce clear engineering reports with recommendations for design and performance improvements.

Failure Investigation

• Lead root cause analysis of gearbox and component failures.
• Work with materials, design, and manufacturing teams to implement corrective actions.
• Maintain failure databases and support reliability growth programs.

Test Facility & Rig Development

• Support the specification, development, and commissioning of new test rigs and instrumentation systems.
• Improve existing test capabilities, automation, and data acquisition processes.
• Ensure test systems replicate real-world operating conditions as accurately as possible.

Collaboration with Design & Simulation

• Work closely with design engineering teams to validate new gearbox concepts and updates.
• Provide feedback on gear design, materials, coatings, and lubrication strategies.
• Support validation of simulation tools and models used for gearbox performance prediction.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, a related discipline or equivalent experience.
• 3+ years in mechanical testing with motorsport, automotive, or aerospace experience preferred.
• Strong understanding of gear systems, tribology, and lubrication.
• Strong understanding of fatigue, wear mechanisms, and material behavior.
• Strong understanding of thermal and mechanical loading in high-speed rotating systems.
• Experience with test rig operation and instrumentation including torque, speed, strain, and temperature measurements.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (MATLAB, Python, or similar).
• Familiarity with DAQ systems and automated test environments.
• Understanding of simulation correlation (FEA, multibody, or drivetrain models) is beneficial.
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Detail-oriented with a structured engineering approach.
• Effective communicator across cross-functional teams.
• Ability to manage multiple test programs simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with transmission systems, rotating machinery, or powertrain components preferred.
• Experience in a high-performance or R&D testing environment is highly desirable.

Working Conditions

• Primarily factory-based role with no routine travel required.
• Hands-on involvement with test rigs and mechanical systems.
• May require flexible hours to support intensive test programs.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Test program delivery (timing, quality, and completeness).
• Correlation accuracy between test data and simulation.
• Reduction in gearbox failure rates and reliability issues.
• Contribution to performance improvements (efficiency, durability, weight).

Benefits

• Bonus scheme
• Private healthcare
• 401(k) plan including company match
• Employer-paid life insurance and disability coverage
• 32 days annual leave (including holidays)
• Free financial advisor access
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
• Subsidized on-site dining
• On-site gym
• Discounted GM vehicle purchase/lease program
• Free on-site EV charging for personal GM vehicles

Equal Opportunity Employer

GM Performance Power Units and all affiliated companies are Equal Opportunity employer(s). Minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

For more information regarding the EEOC, please visit https://www.eeoc.gov/employers/upload/poster_screen_reader_optimized.pdf.