Racing Development Engineer

Ilmor; Plymouth Charter Township (MI); On-site; USD 100,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare

Dental & Vision

401(k)

Paid time off

Job summary

Ilmor in Plymouth, MI seeks a Powertrain Design Engineer to design, analyze, and improve high-performance mechanical systems for racing and marine applications.

You will work across teams to optimize engine performance, reliability, and competitiveness, with trackside support during events and in-depth data analysis for decision-making.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical or Automotive Engineering or equivalent education and experience.
• 5+ years in an internal combustion engine-focused engineering capacity; college projects count.
• Experience supporting high-performance engine, powertrain, or motorsports programs.
• Proficiency with CAD and GD&T.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide trackside support for race, test, and development events.
• Review, analyze, and interpret engine data to identify performance opportunities.
• Perform engine calibration activities to optimize performance and durability.
• Diagnose and perform trackside engine repairs under time constraints.
• Collaborate with engineers and race teams to improve engine and vehicle performance.
• Prepare technical reports and communicate findings to stakeholders.

Skills

SolidWorks

Data analysis

Engine calibration

Team collaboration

Communication

GD&T

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical or Automotive Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks CAD

Job description

Ilmor is a world-class engineering and manufacturing company focused on high-performance solutions in the racing and marine industries. We combine performance, precision, innovation, and impact to solve complex technical challenges and deliver products that perform at the highest levels. Our team is driven by excellence, accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

POSITION SUMMARY

As a Powertrain Design Engineer, you will use sound engineering principles and a first-principles approach to design, analyze, and improve high-performance mechanical systems. Your work will play a key role in developing new products and enhancing existing components to ensure top performance, reliability, and competitiveness both on and off the track. By combining advanced engineering theory with practical experience, you will collaborate across teams to solve complex engine challenges and help drive the future of motorsport technology.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide trackside support for race, test, and development events, ensuring optimal engine performance and reliability.
• Review, analyze, and interpret engine and vehicle data to identify performance opportunities and support decision-making.
• Perform engine calibration activities to optimize performance, drivability, fuel efficiency, and durability.
• Diagnose and execute trackside engine repairs, troubleshooting mechanical and electronic issues under demanding time constraints.
• Conduct root cause investigations of performance, durability, and reliability concerns, developing and implementing corrective actions.
• Support engine development and validation testing on dynamometers, including test preparation, execution, monitoring, and data analysis.
• Collaborate with engineers, technicians, and race teams to improve engine performance and overall vehicle competitiveness.
• Prepare technical reports and communicate findings, recommendations, and action plans to internal and external stakeholders.
• Assist with the development, validation, and continuous improvement of engine systems, calibrations, and operating procedures.
• Support vehicle integration activities and ensure proper functionality of engine controls, sensors, data acquisition systems, and related hardware.
• Participate in race weekend planning, setup, and post-event reviews to drive continuous improvement and competitive performance.
• Maintain accurate records of testing, calibration changes, repairs, and reliability investigations.
• Adhere to all company safety, quality, and operational standards while supporting trackside and test operations.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical or Automotive Engineering or equivalent education and experience.
• Minimum of five years of experience working in an internal combustion engine-focused engineering capacity. Experience gained in college (e.g. on an FSAE team or similar) will be considered.
• Experience supporting high-performance engine, powertrain, or motorsports product development programs.
• Passion for motorsports and high-performance engines.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks or similar CAD software.
• Demonstrated innovative thought process and strong technical judgment.
• High mechanical aptitude and capability.
• Familiarity with GD&T.
• Excellent communication skills with a team-player mentality.
• Integrity, determination, motivation, and the ability to meet tight deadlines.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience as a member or leader of a collegiate FSAE or Baja engine/powertrain subteam.
• A maker mentality with interest in fabrication, innovative designs, and practical intuition for high performance.
• Knowledge of the culture, pace, and commitment required in racing and motorsports.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer, tools, and engineering equipment.
• Must be able to read drawings, review detailed technical information, and work at a computer for extended periods.
• May occasionally be required to bend, reach, climb, crouch, or work around vehicles, engines, test equipment, and production areas.
• Must be able to occasionally lift, carry, push, or pull up to 30 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to travel
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• This role is based 100% on-site in Plymouth, Michigan. Hybrid and remote work are not available for this position.
• Work is performed in office, engineering, manufacturing, shop, test, and motorsports-related environments.
• The employee may occasionally be exposed to moving mechanical parts, noise, vibration, fuels, oils, and other conditions commonly found in engineering, manufacturing, testing, and racing environments.
• Use of appropriate personal protective equipment may be required in designated areas.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

• Expected travel is approximately 20% for attendance at races, events, meetings, and other business needs.
• Travel may include occasional evenings, weekends, or schedule changes based on business and racing event requirements.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• Day-one benefits, including Medical through Blue Cross Blue Shield with optional Health Savings Account, Dental, and Vision coverage.
• 3% Safe Harbor 401(k) company contribution.
• Additional benefits and paid time off are provided in accordance with company policy.
• Compensation will be based on experience, qualifications, internal equity, and business needs.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Ilmor is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. Ilmor prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind and is committed to providing a respectful and inclusive workplace.