Race Engineer - Performance Development

Hendrick Motorsports; Concord (NH); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Hendrick Motorsports in Charlotte, NC is seeking an experienced Race Engineer – Performance Development to identify and deliver competitive performance gains for race teams. You will lead innovative experiments, develop tools, and mentor engineers, blending vehicle dynamics, simulation, and data analytics to shape race-winning strategies.

The role requires hands-on testing, strong leadership, and the ability to define new performance paths using DiL, 7-Post, DOE, and AI-driven insights to extend

Qualifications

• Experience in motorsports engineering focusing on vehicle dynamics and performance optimization.
• Trackside or on-track engineering support in premier racing series is preferred.
• Proven ability to develop and validate simulations and data analyses.
• Strong fundamentals in tire modeling, setup development, and system optimization.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent efforts to identify and deliver measurable performance gains for race teams.
• Explore non-traditional setup methodologies and testing strategies.
• Develop and maintain custom software tools and workflows.
• Apply DOE, LTS, and simulation techniques to improve performance.
• Lead DiL test sessions and translate results into setup philosophies.
• Collaborate with 7-Post engineers on test plans and DOE studies.

Skills

Vehicle dynamics

DiL leadership

Data analytics

AI/ML basics

Test planning

Education

2+ years motorsports engineering experience

Tools

MATLAB

Python

Motec

7-Post rig

Job description

Hendrick Motorsports

Location: 4400 Papa Joe Hendrick Blvd, Charlotte, North Carolina 28262

Hendrick Motorsports is currently seeking an experienced and highly motivated Race Engieer- Performance Development.

The Race Engineer – Performance Development is a high level technical leadership role responsible for independently identifying, developing, and delivering competitive performance advantages for Hendrick Motorsports race teams on a continual basis.

This role goes beyond traditional setup refinement. The Race Engineer – Performance Dev is expected to define new paths to performance, leveraging advanced simulation, Driver-in-the-Loop (DiL), Design of Experiments (DOE), Lap Time Simulation (LTS), software development, AI-driven analytics, and unconventional methodologies to uncover gains others are not pursuing.

This individual must be highly self-motivated, capable of setting technical direction, executing complex test programs, building tools as needed, and leading small engineering groups through rigorous performance investigations. The role blends theoretical vehicle dynamics, hands‑on mechanical work, mechatronics, and mentorship, and is critical to expanding the organization’s long‑term competitive edge.

Key Responsibilities

Primary Responsibilities

1. Performance Discovery & Development (Primary Focus)

• Lead independent efforts to identify and deliver measurable performance gains for race teams on a recurring basis.
• Explore non-traditional and unconventional setup methodologies, vehicle behaviors, and testing strategies to pursue optimal performance.
• Apply advanced vehicle dynamics understanding across simulation, rig testing, and on-track environments.
• Drive correlation between simulation, DiL, 7-Post, and track data to ensure findings translate into real-world gains.
• Define technical problems worth solving - not just respond to existing requests.

2. Simulation, Software, & AI Tool Development

• Develop and maintain custom software tools, scripts, and workflows to accelerate performance discovery.
• Utilize AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics to extract insight from large and complex datasets.
• Apply DOE, LTS, and simulation techniques in creative and forward-looking ways.
• Continuously push the boundaries of how simulation and data analytics are used within race engineering.

3. Driver-in-the-Loop (DiL) Leadership

• Design, construct, and execute DiL test sessions, including setup definition, test plans, and optimization strategies.
• Lead groups of engineers during DiL testing, providing technical direction and real-time decision making.
• Translate DiL outcomes into actionable setup philosophies, development direction, and race-ready recommendations.
• Ensure DiL and Simulation activities are tightly correlated to track behavior and competitive objectives.

4. 7-Post Rig & Physical Testing

• Collaborate closely with 7-Post engineers to define test plans, DOE studies, and performance investigations.
• Actively participate in 7-Post operations, including mechanical changeover of the test car when required.
• Support rig testing with a strong understanding of suspension systems, damping, tires, and structural interactions.
• Apply findings from rig testing to simulation and on-track performance.

5. Mechatronics & Experimental Methods

• Apply mechatronics principles, sensors, and data acquisition systems to solve complex performance problems.
• Conceptualize and help develop actuation methods or loading techniques to test components, systems, or full vehicles.
• Direct small groups or individuals in experimental studies involving instrumentation and custom test setups.
• Support both shop-based and track-based experimental testing programs.

6. Trackside & Shop Support

• Provide high-level engineering support during select tests and race events, on-site or remote.
• Assist with race car preparation, troubleshooting, and performance validation when needed.
• Work effectively under pressure to deliver clear, actionable technical guidance.

7. Mentorship & Technical Leadership

• Serve as a mentor to younger engineers, developing their technical skills, engineering judgment, and professional habits.
• Help shape engineers into highly effective race engineers through guidance, feedback, and example.
• Foster a culture of curiosity, accountability, technical rigor, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications and Skills

Qualifications and Skills

• Experience :

  • 2+ years of experience in motorsports engineering with emphasis on vehicle dynamics and performance optimization.
  • 2+ years of experience of at track engineering support in a premier racing series – preferably Nascar Cup Series Level Competition

• Technical Skills :

  • Proven experience with simulation validation and correlation (track, rig, aero).
  • Expertise with simulation and data analysis tools (MATLAB, Python, Pi Toolbox, Motec, etc.).
  • Strong foundation in tire modeling adjustments, setup development, and system optimization.
  • Demonstrates success in leading DiL or Test sessions and integrating results into competitive performance.

• 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.

Hendrick is an Equal Opportunity employer. Minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For more information regarding the EEOC, please visit https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf.