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Race Car Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Making the necessary adjustments to the car according to established procedures for each race and test event by collaborating with managers, chief mechanics, drivers, and engineers to meet design ...

Senior Chassis Designer

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$1.9K - $2.5K/wk

Motorsports / Automotive Engineering About the Role: A premier motorsports company is seeking a Senior Chassis Designer to lead the design and development of high-performance race car chassis and ...

Senior Chassis Designer

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$1.9K - $2.5K/wk

Motorsports / Automotive Engineering About the Role: A premier motorsports company is seeking a Senior Chassis Designer to lead the design and development of high-performance race car chassis and ...

Collaborate well with mechanics, race engineers, managers, and other supporting team members to efficiently build exceptional race cars. * Contribute ideas to enhance car performance, reliability ...

Collaborate well with mechanics, race engineers, managers, and other supporting team members to efficiently build exceptional race cars. * Contribute ideas to enhance car performance, reliability ...

Composite Engineer

Mooresville, NC · On-site

$85K - $112K/yr

The Composites Engineer will collaborate across design, manufacturing, and technical partner teams ... Design composite race car and support equipment components for use in all of Team Penske racing ...

$90 - $130/hr

That commitment dates back to 1901 when Henry Ford and a small team of engineers developed a race car called "Sweepstakes". It featured innovations such as mechanical fuel injection and insulated ...

New

You'll work with a small, experienced group of engineers specializing in vehicle dynamics, tire modeling, aerodynamics, race car performance, and physics-based simulation. In this role, you will ...

You'll work with a small, experienced group of engineers specializing in vehicle dynamics, tire modeling, aerodynamics, race car performance, and physics-based simulation. Key Responsibilities

Race Car Preparation & Operation: * Oversee the meticulous preparation and operation of the race ... with the engineering and mechanical teams. * Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving ...

Composite Engineer

Mooresville, NC · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

The Composites Engineer will collaborate across design, manufacturing, and technical partner teams ... Design composite race car and support equipment components for use in all of Team Penske racing ...

Composite Engineer

Mooresville, NC · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

The Composites Engineer will collaborate across design, manufacturing, and technical partner teams ... Design composite race car and support equipment components for use in all of Team Penske racing ...

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Race Car Engineer information

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$29

$66

How much do race car engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for race car engineer in the United States is $29.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $37.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a race car engineer do?

A Race Car Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing the performance of race cars. They work closely with drivers and pit crews to analyze data, adjust vehicle settings, and implement technical improvements for speed, handling, and reliability. Race Car Engineers use advanced engineering principles, computer simulations, and track testing to ensure the car meets competitive standards and safety regulations. Their expertise is crucial for achieving the best possible performance on the track.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a race car engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Race Car Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with vehicle dynamics. Proficiency with CAD software, data acquisition systems, and simulation tools like MATLAB or Simulink is typically required, along with relevant engineering certifications. Excellent problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with drivers and race teams under high-pressure conditions. These skills and qualities are vital for optimizing car performance, ensuring safety, and achieving competitive success in the fast-paced motorsport environment.

What are some common challenges faced by a race car engineer during a race weekend?

Race Car Engineers often face the challenge of rapidly analyzing performance data and making crucial setup adjustments under time pressure. Balancing the driver's feedback with technical data to optimize the car's handling for changing track and weather conditions is essential. Effective communication and collaboration with the driver, mechanics, and other engineers are critical for quick decision-making and successful race outcomes. Additionally, staying updated with the latest regulations and innovations in motorsport technology is key to maintaining a competitive edge.

What is the difference between Race Car Engineer vs Automotive Engineer?

AspectRace Car EngineerAutomotive Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering, specialized training in motorsportsBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Electrical Engineering; often includes certifications in vehicle design
Work EnvironmentRace tracks, testing facilities, high-performance labsManufacturing plants, design studios, testing centers
Industry UsageMotorsports teams, racing organizationsAutomobile manufacturers, transportation companies

Race Car Engineers focus on designing and optimizing vehicles specifically for racing, often working in high-pressure environments like race tracks. Automotive Engineers work on a broader range of vehicles for everyday use, including cars for consumers and commercial purposes. While both roles require a strong engineering background, Race Car Engineers specialize in high-performance systems and racing regulations, whereas Automotive Engineers focus on mass production, safety, and efficiency.

How do you become a race car engineer?

To become a race car engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in vehicle dynamics, aerodynamics, and data analysis, and familiarity with tools like CAD software and telemetry systems are also important for this role.

How much do race car engineers make?

Race car engineers typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, team size, and level of expertise. Senior engineers or those working with top racing teams can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 with bonuses and performance incentives.
More about Race Car Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Race Car Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Race Car Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Race Car Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Race Car Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Race Car Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,014 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

Mechanic - IMSA

Penske Racing South

Mooresville, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Job Description

Team Penske is seeking an IMSA Mechanic to manage the assembly, disassembly, and maintenance of Porsche Penske Motorsport race cars. This role involves preparing cars for races and tests, performing adjustments, tracking component data, and mentoring junior mechanics. The ideal candidate has extensive racecar mechanical experience, strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work safely and collaboratively in a high-pressure, fast-paced, professional racing environment.

Responsibilities

  • Manage and execute assembly, disassembly, and maintenance of Porsche Penske Motorsport race cars in support of the above-mentioned series and a safe and efficient manner.
  • Meeting specified deadlines for race car preparation while executing a high level of racecar preparation.
  • Loading the race car on the transporters for safe and on-time transport of vehicle to each venue.
  • Making the necessary adjustments to the car according to established procedures for each race and test event by collaborating with managers, chief mechanics, drivers, and engineers to meet design specifications and achieve desired results.
  • Disassembling, cleaning, and non-destructive testing of race car components.
  • Work in support of all mileage tracking and parts management programs. Supply build sheets and mileage sheets and input data into these programs.
  • Maintaining accurate records of changes on all adjustable components of the car during post-race teardown, i.e., recording suspension lengths, pedal positions, tracking serial #’s, etc.
  • Safely operating equipment according to recommended safety specifications, including use of all protective equipment necessary (protective eyewear, earplugs, etc.) while identifying any safety hazards and reporting all risks immediately to a supervisor.
  • Openly communicating with team members in manufacturing and engineering departments to develop functional and quality components.
  • Providing direction and acting as a mentor to less experienced mechanics to ensure quality control while promoting a positive learning environment.
  • Professionally represent the team and its sponsors on and off-track premises.
  • Participating in the Porsche Penske Motorsport Workout Program designed to maximize physical strength and endurance to remain competitive at a professional level.
  • International and domestic travel with the team to races and tests is expected and required for this position.
  • Participation in the pit stop crew including participating in a training and fitness program

Qualifications

  • 4+ years’ experience as race mechanic on Indycar, Sports Car or F1 series race cars.
  • Demonstrate a complete understanding of set-up specifications for race cars and the appropriate safety mechanisms for each component.
  • Ability to communicate to all team members.
  • Meet professional level performance criteria to be a member of the pit crew.
  • Be able to interpret and follow set-up designs for individual race and test events.
  • Have wide knowledge of mechanical components, electronics, and structural framework of race cars.
  • Manual experience using one or more of the following: lathe, mill, drill press, band saw.
  • Be proficient in using precision measuring devices.