Specialist, CFD R&D Engineer

Job description

At McLaren, our mission is to set the standard for high performance in sport. And everyone, in every part of the team, has a role to play. So if you want to test your ideas with the world watching... And measure your progress in milliseconds... And play your part in racing history... You belong here. High performance starts with you.


Purpose of the Role:

  • Role in the CFD Methodology group, reporting to the Lead, CFD Project Leader and collaborating with other members of the CFD Methodology, HPC, Software, Analysis and Aero Development teams to drive the CFD tools development efforts.
  • This role is predominantly factory based but may involve occasional travel when working in collaboration with third parties.

Principal Accountabilities:

  • Manage and deliver improvements to CFD methodology and workflows according to targets discussed with the project leaders. Perform related CFD R&D activities, including supporting the Aerodynamic Development or HPC teams.
  • Champion and propose various tools used in CFD technology team in their workflow. Develop in-depth understanding of these tools and develop techniques to address their limitations and push for continuous improvement.
  • Develop a high level of understanding of the other factors influencing CFD methodology and performance: HPC hardware, software, novel numerical methods, correlation etc – and use this to liaise effectively with the HPC, Software and Development/Analysis teams.
  • Take ownership, contribute and help maintain a large codebase.
  • Develop a high level of understanding of the aerodynamic performance development in general, and how CFD contributions can be used to make the car faster. Use this to keep a strong link with the Aerodynamic Development and deliver effective and targeted CFD methodology support and knowledge to impact race car performance.

Job requirements

Knowledge, Skills and Experience:

  • Strong mathematical background, in particular linear algebra, partial differential equations and Finite volume/element/high order numerical methods either through a PhD or MSc followed up with industrial experience.
  • In-depth knowledge of CFD modelling and expertise in at least two of the following areas: CFD solver development, CFD process automation, CFD applications.
  • Experience in CFD within the context of Aerodynamic development would be preferred, and or experience of data analysis frameworks.
  • Experience in using simulations tools/packages in industrial applications is required.
  • Knowledge and experience with OpenFOAM are preferred.
  • Strong coding skills in object-oriented programming languages (C++, python or others) as well as version control system are highly desirable.
  • Experience of planning and organising technical projects to pre-agreed targets, working collaboratively with other team members.

Personal Attributes:

  • A team player with a collaborative style, but also with the initiative to make your own decisions and work with minimal supervision.
  • Able to work under pressure.
  • Good skills in effective communication.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and an analytical approach, with attention to detail.
  • Aptitude to learn from, and share knowledge with, others.
  • Flexible approach to working hours.


What McLaren can offer?

We constantly strive to be better tomorrow than we are today. Our ambition is to be the most pioneering and exhilarating racing team in the world, and our collective task is to set the standards for high performance in sport. We show up every day with energy and enthusiasm, ready to play our part.

We encourage and support diversity, equity and inclusion. We will actively promote a culture that values difference and eliminates discrimination in our workplace.

McLaren Racing is based at the iconic McLaren Technology Centre (MTC) near Woking. Our state of the art, sustainable campus offers many facilities including a gym, restaurant and indoor and outdoor break-out areas, as well as direct access to park and common land. The MTC is connected to Woking mainline station via regular shuttle buses, from which London Waterloo is a 30 minute train ride.

We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including private healthcare, car schemes, life insurance and generous pension contributions.

Entreprise: 
McLaren F1 Team