Job Description:
The aerodynamic performance engineer is responsible for optimizing NASCAR race vehicles through aerodynamic understanding, correlation, and application. This role spans aerodynamic theory, vehicle performance, simulation tools, and race engineering. Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Owning the aerodynamic performance characterization/model used in various downstream tools (simulation, fabrication, inspection, and others)
- Use all tools available to identify optimum car setup parameters: platform, balance, L/D tradeoffs, pitch/ride/roll sensitivity
- Provide clear, concise, accurate, and actionable information in a fast-moving, high pressure environment
- Represent Team Penske in manufacturer-led aerodynamic development programs, ensuring CFD development, track/tunnel testing, and new body designs are aligned with Team Penske priorities
- Interpret reports from CFD development and wind tunnel testing, distill results for delivery to non-technical audiences
- Ensure race teams understand aerodynamic performance implications of car setup decisions
- Understand NASCAR rules and enforcement, as they apply to aerodynamics
- Attendance at track test events is required
- Remote race weekend support is required
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering is required; advanced engineering degree is preferred
- Minimum two years of experience in professional motorsports is required
- Strong understanding of race car performance fundamentals; aerodynamics, vehicle dynamics, setup process, and race weekend procedures
- Experience with data analysis and performance correlation
- Programming/scripting skills (Python, MATLAB, etc)
- Independent, analytical, self-motivated, results-driven attitude, with a strong sense of accountability
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering
- Minimum two years of experience in professional motorsports
- Strong understanding of race car performance fundamentals, including aerodynamics, vehicle dynamics, setup processes, and race weekend procedures
- Experience with data analysis and performance correlation
- Programming or scripting skills, such as Python or MATLAB
- Advanced engineering degree
- Independent, analytical, self-motivated, results-driven attitude with strong accountability
What We Do
Team Penske is one of the most successful teams in the history of professional sports. Competing in a variety of disciplines, cars owned and prepared by Penske Racing have produced more than 600 major race wins, over 690 pole positions and 48 National Championships across open-wheel, stock car and sports car racing competition. The team has also earned 20 Indianapolis 500 victories in its storied history. Team Penske was also recognized by the Sports Business Journal as a finalist for the publication’s prestigious annual Professional Sports Team of the Year award. For more information about Team Penske, please visit www.teampenske.com. #sports #motorsports #sponsorship #automotive
