Junior Aero Performance Engineer - Data and Methodology

At McLaren Racing, we believe only by chasing performance in everything we do can we give ourselves the best chance of success. Performance on track and in the factory. Performance for our people, our business and our partners. It’s about more than winning. It’s about hitting the highest standards, and then raising the bar again

Purpose of the Role:

F1 operates at the cutting edge of data analysis, where accessing, viewing, and interpreting complex datasets is a routine part of daily operations. We are searching for an inquisitive, self-starting individual to help maintain, develop, and progress the capabilities of the Aero Performance team through the continuous improvement of data science and visualisation tools and techniques used within the group.

Aero Performance is a multi-functional team at the core of our performance-led organisation. Our mission is to transparently and confidently provide the most accurate and clear information, in a timely manner, to lead decision-making for development, performance, and operational teams. We aim to maximise championship points from each event and future projects by integrating data analysis collection, mining, and visualisation, with aerodynamic interpretation and all aspects of driver and vehicle performance.

This role will contribute to the development of data technology to elevate our capabilities in data acquisition, mining and visualisation with an aerodynamics focus.

Role Dimensions:

The role sits in the Aero Performance team who are responsible for directing the development of existing and new technologies to maximise on-track performance and learning, to influence the wider team.

The role will involve close cooperation with other members of the Aero Performance team, the Wind Tunnel Technology team as well as R&D, Electronics and Vehicle Modelling teams, and frequent liaison with the wider Aerodynamics department.

You are expected to be primarily factory-based at MTC (or days of WFH as agreed with your manager in line with company policy) but may involve occasional travel to track or suppliers.

Principal Accountabilities:

• Proactively attacking any software or data methodology opportunity to improve effectiveness and efficiency of Aero Performance workflows

• Develop and support software tools for data analysis and visualisation in collaboration with your team

• Support innovative modelling techniques

• Conduct comprehensive analysis of large and complex datasets, including race telemetry, wind tunnel data, CFD data, and driver feedback, to identify patterns, trends, and anomalies that can inform decision-making processes.

• Develop and implement statistical models and algorithms to optimize aerodynamic performance. Apply statistical techniques to identify correlations and causations that impact overall performance.

• Utilize machine learning algorithms and techniques to uncover insights from structured and unstructured data sources.

• Create visually compelling and intuitive dashboards, reports, and visualizations to communicate data-driven insights to key stakeholders, including aerodynamicists, race engineering, and team management.

• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in data science and machine learning. Explore new methodologies, tools, and technologies that can enhance the team\’s analytical capabilities and gain a competitive edge.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including race engineers, vehicle dynamics experts, and aerodynamicists, to integrate data insights into the team\’s decision-making processes and overall performance improvement initiatives.

• Connect profoundly with Aerodynamic development, to enhance the team performance

• Collaborate with Vehicle Modelling and Data Science to maximise team outcome

• Maintain consistent standards and approaches adopted by the Team

Knowledge, Skills and Experience:

• MEng/MSc or PhD degree in a quantitative field such as Data Science, Computer Science, Engineering, Statistics, or a related discipline

• Proven experience in data analysis, statistical modelling, and machine learning techniques. Previous experience in Aerodynamic Performance, Software and/or Vehicle Modelling is advantageous

• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, or MATLAB

• Strong knowledge of data visualization tools and techniques

• Experience working with large datasets, including structured and unstructured data sources

• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and high-pressure environment

• Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate complex data concepts into actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders

• Familiarity with motor racing, Formula 1, or other motorsports is preferred but not mandatory

Personal Attributes:

• Enthusiasm for engineering and science

• Ability to work to tight deadlines

• Comfortable with rapid changes to planned work

• Ability to expand on an idea and propose solutions to problems

• Objective, data driven approach

• High attention to details

• Promote collaborative work when discussing results

• A team player but with the initiative to make own decisions ad work with minimal supervision

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, swimming pool, 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.

Please note the deadline for applying to this role is the 4th August. Any applications received after this date will not be considered.

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