Hendrick MotorsportsLocation: 4400 Papa Joe Hendrick Blvd, Charlotte, North Carolina 28262
Hendrick Motorsports is currently seeking an experienced and highly motiviated Senior Performance Engineer, The Senior Performance Engineer is a key leadership role responsible for uncovering and delivering competitive performance gains across team cars on a weekly basis. This individual will serve as a senior race engineer, applying advanced vehicle dynamics expertise, simulation validation, and cutting-edge engineering methodologies to ensure that performance insights are implemented effectively.
The Senior Performance Engineer will also play a pivotal role in mentoring younger race engineers, leading Driver-in-the-Loop (DiL) testing, supporting technical partners, and ensuring highly correlated simulation models that drive future competitive advantage. This position requires a highly motivated, detail-oriented engineer who thrives in a fast-paced, high-pressure racing environment where rapid iteration and innovation are crucial.
Primary Responsibilities
Performance Development
- Lead weekly efforts to identify and deliver measurable performance improvements for team cars.
- Push the envelope of current vehicle dynamics methods, simulation techniques, and predictive modeling.
- Serve as subject matter expert on simulation tools, DOE (Design of Experiments), and LTS (Lap Time Simulation) processes.
- Drive the validation of simulation models through correlation with track, 7-post, and aerodynamic data.
Driver-in-the-Loop (DiL) & Tire Development
- Plan and execute DiL sessions, curating setups and philosophies to guide testing.
- Lead tire tuning, refinement, and correlation activities to optimize tire performance.
- Translate DiL insights into actionable recommendations for both race preparation and future development.
Technical Partnerships & Collaboration
- Act as a liaison to technical partners, ensuring effective exchange of data, car build recommendations, and setup optimization strategies.
- Contribute to global performance initiatives, sharing insights that strengthen competitive advantage across the broader technical group.
- Partner with design, manufacturing, and testing teams to align simulation, development, and trackside execution.
Trackside Support
- Provide senior-level engineering support during test events.
- Guide tuning and setup adjustments based on telemetry, simulation results, and driver feedback.
- Troubleshoot performance issues in real time and deliver effective solutions under competitive pressure.
- Partner with drivers, race engineers, and crew chiefs to implement improvements that maximize on-track performance.
Mentorship & Leadership
- Train, guide, and mentor younger race engineers to accelerate their development and contribution to team objectives.
- Foster a culture of technical excellence, accountability, and collaboration across the engineering group.
Data Science & Analysis
- Apply strong data science and analytics skills to distill actionable insights from large, complex datasets.
- Provide structured, well-supported recommendations backed by quantitative analysis.
- Ensure organization and clarity in all reporting and communication of technical findings.
Qualifications and Skills:
Experience:
- 7+ years of experience in motorsports engineering with emphasis on vehicle dynamics and performance optimization.
- 5+ 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.
