Performance Engineer - Ford Racing

Motorsport-Total.com GmbH; Witney; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading motorsport engineering firm located in Witney, England, is seeking a Performance Engineer to unlock car and driver performance via advanced data analysis and simulation modeling. The ideal candidate should have a proven track record in a top-tier motorsport environment, especially Formula 1. Key responsibilities include leading telemetry data analysis, providing real-time insights during races, and generating post-event performance reports. The company offers competitive salary, healthcare benefits, and extensive travel opportunities.

Benefits

Competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure

Travel opportunities to international testing and race events

Competitive Private Healthcare and Dental package

Company Pension Scheme

Collaborative work culture

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Performance Engineer within a top-tier motorsport environment.
• Strong technical knowledge of vehicle dynamics and performance analysis techniques.
• High proficiency with data analysis software such as MATLAB, MoTeC, Pi Toolbox.

Responsibilities

• Lead the collection and analysis of vehicle and driver telemetry data.
• Provide real-time performance insights to the Race Engineer.
• Produce detailed post-event reports to capture key performance trends.

Skills

Data analysis

Vehicle dynamics knowledge

Telemetry systems expertise

Problem-solving skills

Strong communication

Education

Experience as Performance Engineer in Formula 1 or equivalent

Tools

MATLAB

MoTeC

Pi Toolbox

Job description

About Us

In 1901, Henry Ford designed and built the race car called “Sweepstakes.” On October 10th of that year, he drove Sweepstakes against Alexander Winton, a famous racer and builder. Against all odds Ford won. That was the beginning “the race that changed the world” and it continues to this day. From our victories at Le Mans in 1966 and exactly fifty years later in 2016, to multiple World Championships, the spirit of Henry Ford lives with us every day through our motorsport efforts around the world.

About the Role

This is a career-defining opportunity to take a pivotal role in one of the most competitive and prestigious racing series in the world. The Performance Engineer is the specialist in unlocking car and driver performance through advanced data analysis, simulation modelling, and setup optimisation. Your expertise will ensure the team consistently delivers competitive pace, reliability, and operational excellence.

Our ideal candidate will have a proven track record of success as a Performance Engineer at the top level of motorsport, combining calm, clear decision-making with technical excellence and a passion for performance.

Key Responsibilities

The Performance Engineer provides the technical insight and data-driven expertise that powers the team’s decision-making, ensuring every possible advantage is identified and utilised. Your evidence-based insights will shape setup decisions, driver development, and long-term car improvements. This role demands analytical precision, clear communication, and a relentless pursuit of performance gains in one of the most challenging environments in motorsport.

Performance Data Analysis, Simulation & Modelling:

• Lead the collection, interpretation, and analysis of vehicle and driver telemetry data across practice, qualifying, and race sessions.
• Identify performance trends, reliability concerns, and opportunities for improvement in car behaviour and driver technique.
• Use advanced tools and software (e.g., MATLAB, MoTeC, Pi Toolbox) to produce clear, actionable reports for the Race Engineer and team.
• Translate complex datasets into insights that can be understood and acted upon quickly by the wider team.
• Develop and maintain simulation models to predict car performance under different track conditions, setups, and weather scenarios.
• Run pre-event simulations to guide setup decisions and strategic planning.
• Validate trackside performance by comparing real-world results against simulation outputs.
• Continuously refine and improve the accuracy of modelling tools and processes.

Setup Optimisation:

• Work alongside the Race Engineer to define and validate setup directions, providing data-backed recommendations for suspension, aero, tyre usage, and powertrain configurations.
• Evaluate the impact of setup changes through rigorous analysis and reporting.
• Ensure that performance-focused changes are balanced with reliability and safety considerations in collaboration with the Chief Mechanic.
• Support pre-event preparations by analysing historical data and track-specific performance trends.

Trackside Support:

• Act as the lead data analyst trackside, monitoring live data feeds to support quick decisions during sessions and races.
• Provide real-time performance insights to the Race Engineer and Strategy Engineer to guide tactical decisions.
• Assist with troubleshooting during live events by identifying underlying performance or reliability issues through data.
• Maintain composure and precision when delivering information under intense time constraints.

Driver Development & Feedback:

• Provide drivers with data-driven coaching and performance feedback to improve lap times and consistency.
• Identify areas for driver improvement through telemetry analysis, focusing on braking, throttle application, cornering technique, and consistency.
• Work closely with the Race Engineer to translate driver performance data into actionable guidance.

Post-Event Analysis & Continuous Improvement:

• Produce detailed post-event reports to capture key performance trends, successes, and development needs.
• Feed insights back to the design and factory teams to support car development and long-term performance growth.
• Continuously enhance the team’s data tools, reporting processes, and analysis methods for greater accuracy and efficiency.
• Share learnings across the wider team to build collective knowledge and drive ongoing improvement.

Health, Safety & Compliance:

• Promote a culture of data integrity, precision, and professionalism in all analysis work.
• Ensure adherence to FIA regulations and internal company standards.
• Support the Chief Mechanic and Race Engineer in upholding safety and compliance standards.

Qualifications, Skills & Personal Attributes

Essential:

• Proven experience as a Performance Engineer or equivalent role within a top-tier motorsport environment (e.g., WEC, Formula 1, Formula E, Le Mans).
• Strong technical knowledge of vehicle dynamics, telemetry systems, and performance analysis techniques.
• High proficiency with data analysis software such as MATLAB, MoTeC, Pi Toolbox, or equivalent.
• Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills, with meticulous attention to detail.
• Strong communication skills to translate complex data into actionable insights.
• Demonstrated ability to make calm, rapid decisions under pressure in live race conditions.
• Willingness to travel extensively, including internationally, for tests and race events.

Desirable:

• Experience in endurance racing programs and the unique demands of multi-driver, long-duration events.
• Knowledge of hybrid and advanced powertrain technologies.
• Familiarity with FIA regulations and technical compliance processes.
• Experience developing simulation models and predictive performance tools.

Personal Attributes:

• Calm and focused under pressure, with a solution focused mindset.
• Highly analytical and detail-oriented, with the ability to interpret complex data and translate it into clear, actionable strategies.
• Highly collaborative, with excellent communicative skills for cross-functional teamwork.
• Passionate about motorsport and driven by the pursuit of excellence.
• Ambitious and driven todeliver world-class results

Why join us?

We are at a pivotal moment in our journey, taking on one of the most prestigious and challenging projects in global motorsport. This is your opportunity to play a key role in delivering success on the world stage.

As part of our team, you’ll help shape the future of endurance racing, working with world-class people and cutting-edge technology.

Benefits include:

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure
• Travel opportunities to international testing and race events
• Competitive Private Healthcare and Dental package
• Company Pension Scheme
• Working in a people first culture built on respect, collaboration, and excellence

How to Apply

If you’re interested in applying for this role, please send us your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you believe you are a strong fit. Please ensure your cover letter clearly addresses your relevant skills and experience.

Personal data submitted as part of the application process will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Venture Engineering Ltd is an equal opportunity employer. We value and celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds.