Head of Engine Design Group

GM Performance Power Units - Concord, NC

Head of Engine Design - Onsite

Job Summary

GM Performance Power Units is seeking an experienced Head of Engine Design to lead the component design organization for our Internal Combustion Engine program. Reporting to the ICE Chief Engineer, this role provides technical and people leadership to a multidisciplinary team of Technical Specialists and Engineers responsible for the design and development of major ICE systems and components.
The Head of Engine Design is accountable for the quality, technical integrity, and timely delivery of all design activities, ensuring compliance with engine specifications, GMPPU design standards, FIA regulations, program targets, and cost objectives. This role serves as the primary interface between the design organization and key engineering functions, including Simulation, Performance, Integration, Manufacturing, Quality, Testing, and Program Management.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Leadership

•    Lead the design and development of ICE components and systems from concept through release and validation.
•    Ensure compliance with engine specifications, internal design standards, and FIA regulations.
•    Maintain technical oversight of all component groups and ensure delivery of robust, competitive, and manufacturable design solutions.
•    Drive design reviews and approve engineering deliverables, drawings, and release packages.

Program Delivery

•    Own design schedules, deliverables, resource planning, and engineering milestones for the ICE Design organization.
•    Identify and manage technical, schedule, and resource risks.
•    Provide regular progress, risk, and recovery updates to the ICE Chief Engineer.
•    Support supplier and partner engineering activities when required.

Cross-Functional Coordination

•    Ensure effective collaboration between Design, Simulation, ICE Performance, Power Unit Integration, Manufacturing, Procurement, Quality, and Test groups.
•    Coordinate technical interfaces across ICE systems to ensure successful engine integration.
•    Facilitate resolution of cross-functional technical issues and escalation when required.

Engineering Excellence & Innovation

•    Establish and continuously improve design processes, engineering standards, review practices, and knowledge management systems.
•    Promote rigorous engineering methods, first-principles thinking, and effective use of simulation and testing.
•    Lead innovation activities within the design organization and support the development of new concepts into competitive technologies.

People Leadership

•    Manage, mentor, and develop a team of Technical Specialists and Designers.
•    Define objectives, support career development, and identify future technical and leadership talent.
•    Foster a collaborative, accountable, and high-performance engineering culture.
•    Support recruitment, succession planning, and organizational growth.

Required Qualifications

•    Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Motorsport Engineering, or related field.
•    10+ years of experience in high-performance powertrain development, Formula 1, IndyCar, WEC, or comparable racing engines
•    Proven experience leading multidisciplinary engineering teams.
•    Strong understanding of ICE design, validation, manufacturing, and engineering release processes.
•    Experience managing complex technical programs involving performance, reliability, cost, and timing targets.
•    Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
•    Experience with Siemens NX or equivalent CAD/PLM tools.

Ready to be part of a team that pushes boundaries both on and off the track? At GM Performance Power Units, we are developing a new era of performance for the Formula 1 grid. Joining us means entering a startup racing environment backed by a legacy of engineering excellence, giving you the rare opportunity to help build a world-class program from day one. We believe in rewarding innovation and powering potential. As part of our team, you’ll benefit from a competitive and comprehensive package designed to support your performance, well-being, and future, helping you thrive at every level.

That includes access to:

• Bonus scheme
• Private healthcare
• 401(k) plan including company match
• Employer-paid life insurance and disability coverage
• 32 days annual leave (including holidays)
• Free financial advisor access
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
• Subsidized on-site dining
• On-site gym
• Discounted GM vehicle purchase/lease program
• Free on-site EV charging for personal GM vehicles

It’s all part of our commitment to creating a workplace that’s as high-performing and forward-thinking as the people who make it succeed.

Join us and help power what’s next.

Why Join Us

You’ll play a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability and performance of a next-generation Formula 1 power unit. Our culture rewards precision, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of performance.

Please note: GM Performance Power Units and all affiliated companies are Equal Opportunity employer(s). Minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For more information regarding the EEOC, please visit https://www.eeoc.gov/employers/upload/poster_screen_reader_optimized.pdf.

Only direct hires need apply to or inquire about job postings at GM Performance Power Units. We are not accepting calls, resumes or applications from recruiting firms at this time.