Performance Engineer

Honda Racing Corporation USA•Indianapolis, IN

About The Position

Job Purpose Seek to optimize racing car design and setup configurations for on-track vehicle performance gains, using predictive simulation technologies. Key Accountabilities Vehicle Performance Simulation & Analysis Responsibilities Predictive vehicle performance simulation and analysis for racing car configurations using Driver‑in‑the‑Loop (DIL) and other advanced simulation technologies. Analyze, interpret, and report results from DIL, vehicle simulators, and real‑world testing to HRC and racing team stakeholders. Guide HRC engineering groups and racing teams to maximize powertrain and overall vehicle performance. Design, execute, and optimize vehicle dynamics performance experiments, including free parameter optimization studies. Develop, configure, calibrate, and validate vehicle dynamics and performance models using simulation, rig, and on‑track data. Prepare model parameters, perform pre‑ and post‑processing, and generate correlation and validation reports. Create and maintain vehicle modeling and simulation tools, including models tested on the DIL simulator. Support development, debugging, and validation of vehicle dynamics and control system simulation platforms. Gather system characterization data and support rig testing (suspension kinematics and compliance, mass properties, shaker testing, wind tunnel, etc.). Collaborate with HRC teams to develop rig and track test plans, attend testing, and produce clear, timely technical reports. Work closely with HRC engineers, racing teams, Honda affiliates, and external partners to ensure effective communication and data exchange. Provide vehicle dynamics analytical expertise as a service across HRC engineering and racing programs. Support fault diagnosis and technical problem‑solving at racetracks. Design, implement, test, and maintain vehicle control system software. Ensure timely documentation, reporting, and compliance with records retention policies.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
1–3 years of experience configuring, operating, and validating vehicle dynamics simulation software, including offline lap simulation, parametric, and multi‑body models.
Proficient in analyzing on‑vehicle racing data, including logged data and telemetry.
Practical experience with racing car setup methodologies and performance optimization.
Strong technical knowledge of vehicle dynamics and chassis systems, including aerodynamics, suspension, and tires, with expert understanding of limit‑handling principles and real‑world application.
Familiarity with systematic design of experiments and data‑driven analysis methods.
Proven ability to communicate complex technical information clearly and effectively to diverse audiences, both verbally and in writing.
Demonstrated experience working in fast‑paced, time‑critical, and sensitive environments typical of competitive motorsports.
Strong problem‑solving skills with the ability to identify and resolve routine technical issues under pressure.
Highly detail‑oriented, dependable, and self‑directed, with the ability to work effectively with minimal supervision.
Excellent teamwork, active listening, flexibility, and a positive, accountable work ethic.
Effective time‑management skills and a strong sense of urgency aligned with a competitive racing environment.
Proficient in PC applications, including Microsoft Office tools.

Responsibilities

Predictive vehicle performance simulation and analysis for racing car configurations using Driver‑in‑the‑Loop (DIL) and other advanced simulation technologies.
Analyze, interpret, and report results from DIL, vehicle simulators, and real‑world testing to HRC and racing team stakeholders.
Guide HRC engineering groups and racing teams to maximize powertrain and overall vehicle performance.
Design, execute, and optimize vehicle dynamics performance experiments, including free parameter optimization studies.
Develop, configure, calibrate, and validate vehicle dynamics and performance models using simulation, rig, and on‑track data.
Prepare model parameters, perform pre‑ and post‑processing, and generate correlation and validation reports.
Create and maintain vehicle modeling and simulation tools, including models tested on the DIL simulator.
Support development, debugging, and validation of vehicle dynamics and control system simulation platforms.
Gather system characterization data and support rig testing (suspension kinematics and compliance, mass properties, shaker testing, wind tunnel, etc.).
Collaborate with HRC teams to develop rig and track test plans, attend testing, and produce clear, timely technical reports.
Work closely with HRC engineers, racing teams, Honda affiliates, and external partners to ensure effective communication and data exchange.
Provide vehicle dynamics analytical expertise as a service across HRC engineering and racing programs.
Support fault diagnosis and technical problem‑solving at racetracks.
Design, implement, test, and maintain vehicle control system software.
Ensure timely documentation, reporting, and compliance with records retention policies.