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High Performance Engine Builder Jobs in Wichita, KS

VSE Aviation

Software Engineer (USI8) (2270)

Augusta, KS · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

High professional competency and experience in modern web development frameworks such as REACT ... Ensure storefronts are optimized for SEO, Accessibility, Compliance, and Performance. * Design ...

Capstone Logistics

Freight Handler

Goddard, KS · On-site

$500 - $800/wk

GODDARD KS Freight Handler $500-$800 a week/paid weekly People want to work at Capstone because of our high-performance culture. We build strong relationships, challenge the status quo, work hard to ...

Capstone Logistics

Freight Handler

Goddard, KS · On-site

$500 - $800/wk

GODDARD KS Freight Handler $500-$800 a week/paid weekly People want to work at Capstone because of our high-performance culture. We build strong relationships, challenge the status quo, work hard to ...

Capstone Logistics

Freight Handler

Goddard, KS · On-site

$500 - $800/wk

GODDARD KS Freight Handler $500-$800 a week/paid weekly People want to work at Capstone because of our high-performance culture. We build strong relationships, challenge the status quo, work hard to ...

Demand.com

Marketing Director (Remote)

Wichita, KS · Remote

Lead demand-gen, ABM, and digital performance programs * Build a strong brand and high-impact content engine * Partner closely with Sales to drive full-funnel results * Manage marketing KPIs ...

LaMars 33 LLC

General Manager

Wichita, KS · On-site

$45K - $85K/yr

Apply Now If you are a high performance operator ready to lead at an elite level, we want to hear from you. Apply today and build something exceptional with LaMar's Donuts and Coffee.

LaMars 54 LLC

General Manager

Wichita, KS · On-site

$45K - $85K/yr

Apply Now If you are a high performance operator ready to lead at an elite level, we want to hear from you. Apply today and build something exceptional with LaMar's Donuts and Coffee.

Optimal Performance

Massage Therapist

Wichita, KS · On-site

Build Personalized Treatment Plans: * Identify tension patterns, imbalances, and areas of ... WHY OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE: * Be part of a high-level, growth-focused team. * Work in an environment ...

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All JobsHigh Performance Engine Builder JobsHigh Performance Engine Builder Jobs in Wichita, KS

High Performance Engine Builder information

See Wichita, KS salary details

$15

$27

$41

How much do high performance engine builder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for high performance engine builder in Wichita, KS is $27.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.75 and $30.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a high performance engine builder do?

A High Performance Engine Builder specializes in designing, assembling, and tuning engines for maximum power, efficiency, and reliability, typically for racing or high-performance street vehicles. They work with advanced components and technologies to improve engine output, often customizing parts and using precision tools. These professionals diagnose engine issues, perform modifications, and ensure all systems are optimized for peak performance. Their expertise is crucial for achieving competitive advantage in motorsports and for enthusiasts seeking enhanced vehicle performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a high performance engine builder?

A High Performance Engine Builder requires deep mechanical knowledge, precision machining skills, and experience with high-performance engines, often supported by technical training or an automotive technology degree. Familiarity with specialized tools such as dynamometers, torque wrenches, CNC machines, and diagnostic systems, along with relevant certifications like ASE, is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure the reliability, safety, and peak performance of engines in demanding motorsports or automotive settings.

What are some common challenges faced by high performance engine builders when working on custom projects?

High Performance Engine Builders often encounter challenges such as sourcing rare or specialized components, ensuring compatibility between aftermarket parts, and meeting precise performance specifications set by clients. Additionally, diagnosing and resolving unexpected issues during assembly or testing can require extensive experience and problem-solving skills. Collaboration with machinists, engineers, and sometimes clients is crucial to ensure all requirements are met while maintaining reliability and safety standards.

What is the difference between High Performance Engine Builder vs Race Engine Technician?

AspectHigh Performance Engine BuilderRace Engine Technician
CredentialsMechanical certifications, engine rebuilding experienceMechanical certifications, specialized race engine training
Work EnvironmentAuto shops, custom engine shops, manufacturing facilitiesRace tracks, racing teams, high-performance workshops
Industry UsageAutomotive, aftermarket, custom buildsMotorsports, racing events, professional teams
Job FocusBuilding and customizing high-performance engines for various applicationsMaintaining, tuning, and repairing race engines for optimal performance

While both roles involve working with high-performance engines, the High Performance Engine Builder primarily focuses on designing and assembling engines for a variety of applications, including street and custom cars. The Race Engine Technician specializes in maintaining and tuning engines specifically for racing conditions, often working directly with racing teams and at race events.

How much do high performance engine builders make?

High performance engine builders typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, with experienced professionals or those working in specialized shops earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on skill level, certifications, location, and the complexity of projects handled.

How to become a high performance engine builder?

To become a high performance engine builder, gain experience through apprenticeships or working in automotive repair shops, develop strong mechanical skills, and learn about engine components and tuning. Earning certifications such as ASE or specialized engine building courses can enhance credibility, and familiarity with tools like dyno testers and computer diagnostics is beneficial.

What are popular job titles related to High Performance Engine Builder jobs in Wichita, KS?

For High Performance Engine Builder jobs in Wichita, KS, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching High Performance Engine Builder jobs in Wichita, KS look for?

The top searched job categories for High Performance Engine Builder jobs in Wichita, KS are:

High Performance Engine Builder jobs near you
Infographic showing various High Performance Engine Builder job openings in Wichita, KS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,758 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Propulsion Test Engineer (R4380)

Shield AI

Wichita, KS

$150K - $230K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI's technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

Job Description:
Shield AI is seeking a highly experienced Propulsion Test Engineer to lead propulsion test planning and execution for X-BAT, the world's first autonomous VTOL jet aircraft. In this role, you will shape the propulsion test strategy, direct complex engine and hover test campaigns, and provide technical leadership across the program to ensure safe and rapid development of a next-generation autonomous aircraft. 
 
The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in jet propulsion testing, developmental flight test operations, to include mission control room operations, and high-energy ground testing. You will work closely with propulsion engineers, flight test teams, autonomy developers, instrumentation specialists, and safety organizations to define test objectives, assess risk, and deliver the data required to advance the aircraft through its test envelope. 
 
This is a high-impact role for a technical leader who thrives in fast-paced, experimental environments and who wants to help define the future of autonomous aviation. 
What you'll do:
  • Support engine, hover, static, and integrated propulsion test campaigns for X-BAT including planning, execution, and post-test analysis. 
  • Advise on propulsion system readiness and define test objectives, test point development, build up approach, success criteria, and instrumentation requirements. 
  • Develop and review test procedures, hazard analyses, run cards, and safety documentation for high-energy test operations. 
  • Provide technical oversight during engine runs, hover tests, transition testing, and propulsion-autonomy integration events. 
  • Serve as a propulsion subject-matter expert during Test Readiness Reviews (TRRs), Test Hazard Analyses (THAs), and Operational Risk Management (ORM) assessments 
  • Support root-cause investigations related to propulsion performance, engine controls, thermal behavior, vibration, and integration issues. 
  • Partner with Autonomy and Avionics teams to evaluate propulsion-related interactions such as thrust control logic, response lags, fail-safes, and emergency behaviors. 
  • Collaborate with Instrumentation Engineering to ensure data quality, test post process analysis, reporting, timing, and fidelity across propulsion channels. 
  • Support field deployments, remote test sites, and intensive test cycles as required to meet program schedules. 
Required qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical discipline. 
  • 8+ years of experience in propulsion testing for jet engines, VTOL systems, unmanned aircraft, or developmental flight test programs. 
  • Demonstrated expertise executing and analyzing engine tests, hover/transition events, and integrated propulsion-airframe testing. 
  • Strong understanding of engine controls, FADEC systems, thrust measurement, thermal analysis, and vibration/loads behavior. 
  • Experience writing and reviewing high-energy test procedures, readiness documentation, and hazard analyses. 
  • Proven ability to operate safely and decisively in fast-paced test environments. 
  • Excellent communication skills and demonstrated performance in multidisciplinary engineering organizations. 
  • Ability to travel and support extended field test deployments. 
Preferred qualifications:
  • Master's degree or higher in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering. 
  • Experience with tail-sitter, VTOL, or thrust-vectoring propulsion systems. 
  • Background in autonomy-powered aircraft, propulsion-system modeling, or propulsion-flight-control integration. 
  • Familiarity with IRIG, PCM, instrumentation requirements, and high-rate telemetry data. 
  • Experience supporting complex investigations or leading propulsion technical review boards. 
  • Prior involvement in developmental or experimental flight test programs. 
  • Experience with compressed-air starts, engine-health monitoring systems, or high-temperature structural analysis. 
$150,000 - $230,000 a year
#LI-JM1
#LE

Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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