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Motorsport Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Design Engineer

Huntersville, NC · On-site

$50 - $56/hr

... • Motorsport industry experience. (NASCAR preferred) • Be a team player. • Have great ... EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION/YEARS OF EXPERIENCE: • Minimum 3yrs engineering employment experience ...

Design Engineer Huntersville, NC - Full Time Productive Resources (www.productiveresources.com) is ... Motorsport industry experience. (NASCAR preferred) * Have great attention to detail. * Strong ...

This company operates in high profile motorsport and the role requires global travel to world class ... Strong LiDAR SLAM skills \- overseeing the design and development of real\-time SLAM algorithms in ...

Be Seen First

A family-owned business with over 50 years of history, we design, engineer, and CNC machine all of ... What You'll Work On * State-of-the-art motorsport drivetrain components * Tight-tolerance ...

Be Seen First

A family-owned business with over 50 years of history, we design, engineer, and CNC machine all of ... What You'll Work On * State-of-the-art motorsport drivetrain components * Tight-tolerance ...

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Showing results 1-20

Motorsport Design Engineer information

See salary details

$49.5K

$118.6K

$173.5K

How much do motorsport design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for motorsport design engineer in the United States is $118,589.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $137,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Motorsport Design Engineers face when developing new components for race cars?

Motorsport Design Engineers often encounter challenges balancing performance, weight, and safety while working under tight deadlines dictated by the racing calendar. Rapid prototyping and frequent design iterations are necessary to meet evolving team requirements and adapt to regulatory changes. Collaboration with other engineers, mechanics, and drivers is essential to ensure that new components deliver measurable improvements on the track. The fast-paced environment demands strong problem-solving skills and the ability to quickly address issues that arise during testing or races.

What is the difference between Motorsport Design Engineer vs Automotive Design Engineer?

AspectMotorsport Design EngineerAutomotive Design Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering, certifications in CAD and vehicle dynamicsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering, similar certifications in CAD and vehicle systems
Work EnvironmentRace teams, high-performance vehicle labs, motorsport eventsAutomotive manufacturers, design studios, production plants
Industry UsageMotorsport teams, racing series, high-performance vehicle developmentMass-market vehicle production, consumer car design, automotive innovation

Motorsport Design Engineers focus on high-performance, lightweight, and aerodynamically optimized vehicles for racing, often working in specialized environments. Automotive Design Engineers work on a broader range of consumer vehicles, emphasizing safety, comfort, and efficiency. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications but differ in their application and industry focus.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior Motorsport Design Engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD and simulation tools, and leadership roles can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially in high-performance racing teams or major automotive companies. Such compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, and other incentives for top-tier engineers in the industry.

What does a Motorsport Design Engineer do?

A Motorsport Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing components and systems used in motorsport vehicles, such as race cars and motorcycles. They use advanced computer-aided design (CAD) software to create innovative parts that enhance performance, safety, and reliability. These engineers work closely with teams to analyze data, solve engineering challenges, and implement new technologies to gain a competitive edge on the track. Their role often involves collaboration with other engineers, mechanics, and drivers to ensure that designs meet strict motorsport regulations and deliver optimal results.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior Motorsport Design Engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD and simulation tools, and often working for top racing teams or manufacturers can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-level engineering roles in specialized fields like motorsport often include performance bonuses and profit sharing that contribute to total compensation at this level.

Do F1 teams hire design engineers?

Yes, Formula 1 teams regularly hire design engineers to develop and optimize car components using CAD software and engineering principles. These engineers typically have strong backgrounds in mechanical or automotive engineering and work in a fast-paced, highly technical environment. Their roles involve collaboration across departments to improve performance and safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Motorsport Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Motorsport Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, proficiency in CAD software, and a strong understanding of vehicle dynamics and aerodynamics. Familiarity with tools like CATIA, SolidWorks, CFD analysis software, and experience with rapid prototyping or CNC machining are typically required. Exceptional problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively under tight deadlines in a team environment set top candidates apart. These skills ensure innovative, high-performance designs that meet the rigorous demands and safety standards of motorsport competition.

Are motorsport engineers in demand?

Motorsport design engineers are in demand due to the ongoing need for innovation in vehicle performance, safety, and aerodynamics. The industry values skills in CAD software, data analysis, and knowledge of racing regulations, with employment opportunities often found in racing teams, automotive manufacturers, and engineering consultancies.
More about Motorsport Design Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Motorsport Design Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Motorsport Design Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Motorsport Design Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Motorsport Design Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Motorsport Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Part Time, and 24% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,589 per year, or $57 per hour.

MGU Mechanical Design Engineer

GM Performance Power Units

Concord, NC • On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Job Title: MGU E-Motor Mechanical Design Engineer
Location: Concord, NC
Company: GM Performance Power Units (GM PPU)
Drive the Future of Formula 1 with GM PPU!
We're seeking a detail-oriented MGU E-Motor Mechanical Design Engineer to join our high-performance Formula 1 Energy Recovery System (ERS) team located in Concord, NC. In this critical role, you will drive the mechanical design and development of the Motor Generator Unit (MGU) e-motor, focusing on structural optimization, rotor-stator integration, and mechanical system reliability under extreme racing conditions. You will create precise 3D models, detailed technical drawings, and run advanced simulations using state-of-the-art CAD and CAE tools to ensure performance and mechanical integrity of the MGU components.
You will collaborate closely with cross-disciplinary teams including electromagnetic engineers, electrical controls, thermal management, and manufacturing experts to optimize the mechanical-electrical integration and packaging of the MGU within the hybrid powertrain. Adhering to stringent FIA technical regulations, you will participate in prototype reviews, testing and validation programs, and iterative design improvements to deliver highly reliable and performance-driven mechanical solutions essential for competitive success.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead mechanical design of MGU components, including rotors, stators, bearings, housings, and thermal interfaces.
  • Collaborate closely with the electromagnetic engineering team to optimize mechanical and electromagnetic integration for maximal motor performance and efficiency.
  • Utilize machine learning (ML) techniques and Design of Experiments (DoE) to systematically explore design variables and optimize mechanical components.
  • Develop designs controlling rotor dynamics to minimize eccentricity, vibration, and runout.
  • Perform finite element and tolerance analyses to ensure structural integrity under high-speed operation.
  • Support prototype development, testing, and data analysis including vibration and thermal monitoring.
  • Collaborate with electrical, controls, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless system integration.
  • Manage design reviews, documentation, and compliance with Formula 1 technical regulations.
  • Drive continuous innovation by researching new materials, fabrication technologies, and mechanical design methods for motorsport electric machines.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline with a minimum of 5 years of relevant mechanical design experience in high-speed electric motors or motorsport applications.
  • Alternatively, Master's degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline with at least 2 years of demonstrated expertise in designing mechanical systems for electric machines or Formula 1 power units.
  • Proficient in 3D CAD software (CATIA, NX, or SolidWorks) and finite element analysis tools.
  • Strong understanding of rotor-stator dynamics, shaft alignment, and eccentricity mitigation techniques.
  • Experience with precision bearing selection and integration (e.g., ceramic or hybrid bearings).
  • Skilled in vibration analysis, dynamic balancing, and tolerance stack-up methods.
  • Hands-on experience with prototype testing, instrumentation, and performance data interpretation.
  • Knowledge of Formula 1 hybrid power unit regulations is highly desirable.
  • Experience or familiarity with machine learning methods for design optimization and application of Design of Experiments (DoE) to motor design problems is a plus.

Desirable Skills:
  • Familiarity with F1 technical regulations, particularly those governing MGU components, rotor-stator integration, and power unit mechanical interfaces.
  • Experience with CAE/FEA tools like ANSYS for thermal-structural simulations of high-speed e-motor rotors, stators, and bearing systems under F1 operating conditions.
  • Hands-on experience in motorsport MGU prototyping, dynamometer testing, or cross-functional collaboration in hybrid ERS powertrains; preference for Formula SAE electric/hybrid powertrain participants.
  • Knowledge of advanced materials (e.g., carbon composites, titanium alloys) and manufacturing processes like composite rotor housings, high-precision CNC rotor machining, and additive manufacturing.
  • Knowledge of Design for Manufacture/Assembly (DFM/DFA) principles and tooling/jig design for MGU e-motor assembly and precision balancing fixtures.
  • Experience conducting Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) for high-speed rotating machinery and e-motor systems to identify and mitigate design risks.
  • Understanding of engineering drawing standards (GD&T) and quality management systems for motorsport MGU components.
  • Familiarity with PLM systems (e.g., Teamcenter) for MGU design version control.

Personal Attributes:
  • Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to precision engineering and quality.
  • Proactive problem solver who anticipates challenges and drives innovative solutions.
  • Able to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced, deadline-driven motorsport environment.
  • Strong collaborator with excellent communication skills for cross-functional teamwork.
  • Adaptable and open to continuous learning, embracing new technologies and methodologies.
  • Self-motivated with a drive for excellence and continuous improvement in high-performance engineering.
  • Highly organized with strong time management skills to handle multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously.

Drive the Future of Motorsport with GM PPU!
At GM PPU, we're not just building power units - we're shaping the future of Formula 1 technology. Our culture of collaboration fuels creativity and innovation, empowering you to make a real impact on the track. Every idea counts, every breakthrough matters, and every team member contributes to our competitive edge.
If you're passionate about revolutionizing electric motor technology and ready to help us push the limits of performance, this is your chance to join a high-energy, cutting-edge team on a mission to dominate the grid. Your journey to F1 starts here! Apply today and become part of something extraordinary.
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.