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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Race Engineer - Performance Development - **Company:** Hendrick Motorsports - **Location:** Charlotte, United States - **Experience:** Experienced - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Testing (Software), Artificial Intelligence, Data Analysis, Program Optimization, Custom Software, Python (Programming Language), MATLAB, Machine Learning, Performance Tuning, Software Engineering, Strategies of Testing, Performance Testing, Data Analytics - **Published:** July 17, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.dice.com/job-detail/4c7cf213-ce3b-47dc-b547-4a41a8d2c54a ## About the Role Hendrick Motorsports is currently seeking an experienced and highly motivated Race Engieer- Performance Development., + 2+ years of experience in motorsports engineering with emphasis on vehicle dynamics and performance optimization. + 2+ 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. ## Description The Race Engineer - Performance Development is a high level technical leadership role responsible for independently identifying, developing, and delivering competitive performance advantages for Hendrick Motorsports race teams on a continual basis. This role goes beyond traditional setup refinement. The Race Engineer - Performance Dev is expected to define new paths to performance, leveraging advanced simulation, Driver-in-the-Loop (DiL), Design of Experiments (DOE), Lap Time Simulation (LTS), software development, AI-driven analytics, and unconventional methodologies to uncover gains others are not pursuing. This individual must be highly self-motivated, capable of setting technical direction, executing complex test programs, building tools as needed, and leading small engineering groups through rigorous performance investigations. The role blends theoretical vehicle dynamics, hands-on mechanical work, mechatronics, and mentorship, and is critical to expanding the organization's long-term competitive edge., 1. Performance Discovery & Development (Primary Focus) * Lead independent efforts to identify and deliver measurable performance gains for race teams on a recurring basis. * Explore non-traditional and unconventional setup methodologies, vehicle behaviors, and testing strategies to pursue optimal performance. * Apply advanced vehicle dynamics understanding across simulation, rig testing, and on-track environments. * Drive correlation between simulation, DiL, 7-Post, and track data to ensure findings translate into real-world gains. * Define technical problems worth solving - not just respond to existing requests. 2. Simulation, Software, & AI Tool Development * Develop and maintain custom software tools, scripts, and workflows to accelerate performance discovery. * Utilize AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics to extract insight from large and complex datasets. * Apply DOE, LTS, and simulation techniques in creative and forward-looking ways. * Continuously push the boundaries of how simulation and data analytics are used within race engineering. 3. Driver-in-the-Loop (DiL) Leadership * Design, construct, and execute DiL test sessions, including setup definition, test plans, and optimization strategies. * Lead groups of engineers during DiL testing, providing technical direction and real-time decision making. * Translate DiL outcomes into actionable setup philosophies, development direction, and race-ready recommendations. * Ensure DiL and Simulation activities are tightly correlated to track behavior and competitive objectives. 4. 7-Post Rig & Physical Testing * Collaborate closely with 7-Post engineers to define test plans, DOE studies, and performance investigations. * Actively participate in 7-Post operations, including mechanical changeover of the test car when required. * Support rig testing with a strong understanding of suspension systems, damping, tires, and structural interactions. * Apply findings from rig testing to simulation and on-track performance. 5. Mechatronics & Experimental Methods * Apply mechatronics principles, sensors, and data acquisition systems to solve complex performance problems. * Conceptualize and help develop actuation methods or loading techniques to test components, systems, or full vehicles. * Direct small groups or individuals in experimental studies involving instrumentation and custom test setups. * Support both shop-based and track-based experimental testing programs. 6. Trackside & Shop Support * Provide high-level engineering support during select tests and race events, on-site or remote. * Assist with race car preparation, troubleshooting, and performance validation when needed. * Work effectively under pressure to deliver clear, actionable technical guidance. 7. Mentorship & Technical Leadership * Serve as a mentor to younger engineers, developing their technical skills, engineering judgment, and professional habits. * Help shape engineers into highly effective race engineers through guidance, feedback, and example. * Foster a culture of curiosity, accountability, technical rigor, and continuous improvement. ## Related Videos - [Building a hypercar from scratch](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/607-building-a-hypercar-from-scratch) - [PySpark - Combining Machine Learning & Big Data](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/44-pyspark-combining-machine-learning-big-data) - [Data Science in Retail](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/586-data-science-in-retail) - [Leveraging Large Language Models for Legacy Code Translation: Challenges and Solutions](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1157-leveraging-large-language-models-for-legacy-code-translation-challenges-and-solutions) - [Software stack under and over the hood of the fastest accelerating car in the world](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/221-software-stack-under-and-over-the-hood-of-the-fastest-accelerating-car-in-the-world) - [Data Science on Software Data](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/162-data-science-on-software-data) ## Related Articles - [How software is steering vehicle technology](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/515-how-software-is-steering-vehicle-technology) - [Data Engineer Salary UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/253-data-engineer-salary-uk) - [Is Software Engineering Hard?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/448-is-software-engineering-hard) - [Dev Digest 102 - Race conditions](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/386-dev-digest-102-race-conditions) - [Where To Find Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/396-where-to-find-software-engineering-jobs) - [The Prompt Engineer ✍️](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/216-the-prompt-engineer)