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Racing Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Work closely with Team Manager, Race Engineer, and Crew Chief to identify opportunities for improvement and collaborate with the team of mechanics to put these in place. * Delegate and monitor work ...

Work closely with Team Manager, Race Engineer, and Crew Chief to identify opportunities for improvement and collaborate with the team of mechanics to put these in place. * Delegate and monitor work ...

Work closely with Team Manager, Race Engineer, and Crew Chief to identify opportunities for improvement and collaborate with the team of mechanics to put these in place. * Delegate and monitor work ...

... racing the No. 56 Porsche 911 GT3 RSR across the Globe. You'll be great at this role if you: * Collaborate well with mechanics, managers, race engineers, and other supporting team members to ...

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 ...

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 ...

Lead Composite Technician

Saint Charles, IL ยท On-site

$43K - $55K/yr

You communicate effectively with engineers, mechanics, and race operations personnel. * You continuously look for ways to improve efficiency, quality, and reliability. * You are highly organized ...

Lead Composite Technician

Saint Charles, IL ยท On-site

$43K - $55K/yr

You communicate effectively with engineers, mechanics, and race operations personnel. * You continuously look for ways to improve efficiency, quality, and reliability. * You are highly organized ...

Lead Composite Technician

Saint Charles, IL ยท On-site

$43K - $55K/yr

You communicate effectively with engineers, mechanics, and race operations personnel. * You continuously look for ways to improve efficiency, quality, and reliability. * You are highly organized ...

... race weekends, because the paddock feels like home * You collaborate seamlessly with engineers, mechanics, and performance teams to chase reliability and speed * You're obsessed with precision ...

... race weekends, because the paddock feels like home * You collaborate seamlessly with engineers, mechanics, and performance teams to chase reliability and speed * You're obsessed with precision ...

... race weekends, because the paddock feels like home * You collaborate seamlessly with engineers, mechanics, and performance teams to chase reliability and speed * You're obsessed with precision ...

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Racing Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$30K

$92.8K

$123.5K

How much do racing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for racing engineer in Illinois is $92,829.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $112,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a racing engineer?

Racing Engineers are specialized professionals who work with motorsport teams to optimize the performance of race cars. They analyze data from the car and driver, make technical adjustments, and develop race strategies to improve speed, reliability, and efficiency. Racing Engineers collaborate closely with drivers, mechanics, and other engineers to ensure the vehicle performs at its best under varying track and weather conditions. Their expertise is crucial for translating engineering knowledge into competitive advantage during races.

What does a racing engineer do?

A racing engineer works in the motorsports industry. In this career, you design, build, develop, and test race cars. Your duties can include working with other racing vehicles, such as motorcycles. In this career, you design a race car or work on specific components for the vehicle that improve performance. Some racing engineers focus on the auto body, engine, suspension, or other features. Whether you work on the overall car or a particular component, your responsibilities include testing your work in controlled environments and on a race track. You then analyze data and make changes if necessary.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a racing engineer?

To thrive as a Racing Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with vehicle dynamics and data analysis. Proficiency with simulation tools (such as MATLAB, Simulink, and telemetry systems), CAD software, and sometimes specialized motorsport certifications are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with drivers and race teams under pressure. These skills ensure optimal vehicle performance, effective real-time decision-making, and contribute directly to competitive success on the track.

How does a racing engineer typically collaborate with the driver and other team members during race weekends?

A Racing Engineer plays a crucial role in facilitating communication between the driver and the technical team during race weekends. They analyze telemetry data and driver feedback to make real-time adjustments to the car's setup, ensuring optimal performance under varying conditions. Collaboration involves regular briefings with the driver, coordination with mechanics and data analysts, and rapid problem-solving to address any issues that arise on track. This teamwork is essential for adapting strategies and making data-driven decisions that can impact race outcomes.

What is the difference between Racing Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectRacing EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Motorsport Engineering; often requires racing-specific certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; professional licensure varies by region
Work EnvironmentMotorsport teams, racetracks, engineering labsManufacturing plants, design offices, research labs
Industry UsagePrimarily in motorsport and racing teamsBroadly across manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and other industries

Racing Engineers focus on optimizing vehicle performance in motorsport settings, working closely with drivers and teams. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, designing and analyzing mechanical systems across various industries. While both roles require strong engineering fundamentals, Racing Engineers specialize in racing-specific technologies and environments, making their roles more niche within the automotive sector.

How much do racing engineers make?

Racing engineers typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, with experienced professionals or those working in top-tier motorsports earning higher salaries. Compensation can vary based on experience, team size, and the level of competition, and often includes additional benefits such as bonuses and performance incentives.

What job categories do people searching Racing Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Racing Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Racing Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,829 per year, or $44.6 per hour.

Car Chief- AO Racing Team

Saint Charles, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

AO Racing is looking to add a talented Car Chief to its multiple championship winning LMP2 Program.

Leading a Team of Mechanics:

  • Lead a team of mechanics on our Oreca 07 LMP2, ensuring work gets done and meets AO Racing's standards and the car is ready for each event.
  • Work closely with Team Manager, Race Engineer, and Crew Chief to identify opportunities for improvement and collaborate with the team of mechanics to put these in place.
  • Delegate and monitor work for mechanics, ensuring everything is completed in the correct timeline.
  • Lead by example and motivate your crew through a culture of safety, craftsmanship, responsibility, and dedication.

Vehicle Preparation:

  • Direct car preparation for each event, ensuring all development tasks and part tracking are complete.
  • Refine practices across all build departments and maintain an up to date deep technical knowledge.
  • Utilize HH Data Management for build, setup, and event information.
  • Perform and lead team in accurate vehicle setup and set down.

At Track Tasks:

  • Responsible for ensuring that the mechanics and the car are ready to execute all phases of the event:
  • Vehicle service and preparation.
  • Setup changes, diagnostics, and repairs between sessions.
  • Lead the crew during pit stop execution and go over the wall to service the car during Pit Stops.
  • Accurate post-event teardown and event-related information will be meticulously recorded, leaving no detail behind.

Additional Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Maintain professional appearance of cars, equipment, and workspace.
  • Interaction with AO's growing fan base and sponsors.
  • Involvement with the teams' long-term planning and continued education and leadership training.
  • Stay current on technical specifications, event procedures, and pit lane rules.

What you'll need:

  • 10+ years in motorsports with focus on vehicle preparation, development, and event execution.
  • 2+ years as a car/crew chief in professional racing.
  • Prototype race car experience and training is plus
  • Oreca P2 experience is a plus
  • Expertise in disassembly, inspection, and reassembly to technical specifications; strong understanding of setups and safety systems.
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills.
  • Proficiency in machining (lathes, mills, drill presses, band saws).
  • Ability to work safely with hazardous materials; knowledge of emergency procedures.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word.
  • Experience in car setup and parts lifeing per manufacturer parameters.
  • Valid US passport and international travel.


Why AO Racing?

There are many benefits that come with working with us as a Full-time employee such as:

  • 100% paid medical, dental and vision premiums for employees and their eligible family members.
  • Life Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • All travel expenses covered
  • Modern, clean, and well-equipped shop
  • Great team environment and work ethic
  • Race team uniform and equipment
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • AO Racing Merchandise discount program
  • On-Site Gym
  • Competitive Pay & Bonus Program