Senior Performance Engineer

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.