Senior Racing Performance Engineer

Hendrick Motorsports•Concord, NC

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Hendrick Motorsports is currently seeking an experienced and highly motivated Senior Racing Performance Engineer. The Senior Racing 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 Racing 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.

Requirements

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
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.
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.
Verbal Communication – communicates effectively with others verbally.
Written Communication – clearly and concisely articulates ideas in writing.
Coordination – adjusts actions in relation to others’ activities.
Strong leadership and organizational abilities.
Effective collaboration with teams to achieve common goals.
Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills.
Passion for motorsports and a deep understanding of vehicle performance engineering.
Ability to thrive in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.

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.