Vehicle Dynamics & Tire Computer Science Engineer

Hendrick Motorsports, a leading NASCAR Motorsports operation, is currently seeking an experienced and highly motivated Tire Engineer/Vehicle Dynamicist. The candidate will have a proven record of utilizing engineering, data science and programming knowledge and experience to prepare for, execute, and report on tire testing and deliverables. The ideal candidate will have experience working proactively and professionally to cultivate relationships and improve performance on the track. The selectedcandidate is expected to have a strong background in applying probability and statistics to real data, as well as defining problems and evaluating the effectiveness of different techniques in solving these problems. With regards to computing skills, the candidate must demonstrate mastery of managing large data sets and quickly prototyping solutions that work on moderately large data-sets in a clear and interactive manner. An understanding of algorithms, operating systems and modern server hardware is a plus. Experience with financial modeling, signal processing, machine learning, game theory or other advanced analytics on time-series data is not required but would make a candidate very attractive.

 

Essential Function(s):

 Tire/Vehicle Dynamics

  • Designs, plans and tests for both full and reduced scale models as well as provide input into commercialization and data infrastructure design of our solutions.
  • Plan and prepare static and dynamic tests.
  • Provides guidance and support for technicians to assemble and prepare tire setup for testing.  
  • Provides engineering support and information by answering questions that other departments and areas may have.  
  • Maintains tire database using race and test data. 
  • Responsible for analyzing and combining results to improve tire performance and planning through specification definition.
  • Create tire models and predict performance using simulation tools and validate predictions.
  • Collaborate with other teammates on research projects.
  • Share new tire knowledge with other teammates through presentations and reports.
  • Determine specific tire parameters based on required tire performance using general knowledge of tire force properties, tire and vehicle dynamics, and tire uniformity and handling characteristics.
  • Relates desired tire characteristics to setup configurations and materials to optimize performance.
  • Plan and perform non-standard tests for special tire investigations, test method development or equipment optimization.
  • Determine and improve the measurement uncertainty of test methods, optimize existing and develop new test methods to improve efficiency.

Data Science

  • Take data analysis acumen and use it to create value added tools for race teams.
  • Program working prototypes in R/python/.net/js.
  • Make creative use of public and private datasets to increase value.
  • Continuously push the edge of what the Company can deliver to end user.
  • Interact with internal customers on a regular basis, both to sell new ideas and elicit feedback on old ones.
  • Document procedures and heed best practice for managing workflow.

Computer Programming/Computer Science

  • Correct errors by making appropriate changes and rechecking the programming to ensure that the desired results are produced.  
  • Conduct trial runs of programs and software applications to be sure they will produce the desired information and that the instructions are correct.  
  • Write, update, and maintain computer programs or software packages to handle specific jobs such as tracking inventory, storing or retrieving data, or controlling other equipment.  
  • Write, analyze, review, and rewrite programs, using workflow chart and diagram, and applying knowledge of computer capabilities, subject matter, and symbolic logic.  
  • Perform or direct revision, repair, or expansion of existing programs to increase operating efficiency or adapt to new requirements.  
  • Consult with managerial, engineering, and technical personnel to clarify program intent, identify problems, and suggest changes.  
  • Compile and write documentation of program development and subsequent revisions, inserting comments in the coded instructions so others can understand the program.  
  • Prepare detailed workflow charts and diagrams that describe input, output, and logical operation, and convert them into a series of instructions coded in a computer language.  
  • Write or contribute to instructions or manuals to guide end users.  
  • Other tasks or projects as assigned by management.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS Competency Statement(s)  

  • Accuracy - Perform work accurately and thoroughly. 
  • Analytical Skills - Possess critical thinking and reasoning skills to solve a problem. 
  • Communication, Written - Demonstrates an ability to communicate in writing clearly and concisely and explain and sell solutions to internal customers.
  • Conceptual Thinking - Ability to think in terms of abstract ideas. 
  • Deductive Reasoning - Ability to apply principles of logical or scientific thinking to a wide range of intellectual and practical problems. 
  • Detail Oriented - Ability to pay attention to the minute details of a project or task. 
  • Energetic - Ability to work at a sustained pace and produce quality work. 
  • Honesty / Integrity - Ability to be truthful and be credible in the workplace. 
  • Presentation Skills - Ability to effectively present information publicly. 
  • Problem Solving - Ability to find a solution for or to deal proactively with work-related problems. 
  • Quality Work - Responsible for producing quality, to specification work. 
  • Reliability - Demonstrates being dependable and trustworthy. 
  • Responsible - Has the ability to be held accountable or answerable for one’s conduct or actions. 
  • Working Under Pressure - Ability to complete assigned tasks under stressful situations. 
  • Self-motivation and the ability to work in a fast-paced, delivery-focused environment.

SKILLS & ABILITIES

 

Education: Bachelor's Degree (four-year college or technical school): Required, Master's degree and 2 years relevant work is preferred.

Computer Skills: Excellent computer skills, including mastery of at least one major programing language and/or big-data framework. Expert level Microsoft Office is expected in this role. CAD and MatLab are preferred.  

Experience: 5 plus years of experience and experience with:

  • Finite Element Analysis (FEA) theory and application.
  • Background in Economics, Engineering, Statistics, Computer Science, or other data-heavy field.
  • Hadoop and real-time processing is a plus.
  • Tire physics and mechanics.
  • Comprehension of static and dynamic tire characteristic curves.
  • Test machine expertise.
  • Test preparation, operation and evaluation tools.
  • Statistical methods for test planning and evaluation.
  • 2 years of testing experience in a R&D or Tire Testing environment.
  • Minimum three (3) years' related experience, including working with multidisciplinary Engineering and Manufacturing associates.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of computerized layout, spreadsheet and database management.
  • Demonstrated ability to understand layouts, capital estimating, associate-man computations, and tire manufacturing equipment processes.

Other Requirements: Ability to travel on short notice is required for this position. A flexible schedule is required for this position.

No resumes or calls from recruiting firms will be accepted for this position.

Hendrick Motorsports is an equal opportunity employer EEO/AA/m/f/vets/disabled.