Gearbox Test Engineer

GM Performance Power Units•Concord, NC

4d•Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

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.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.