Design Lead, Technical - Performance and Racing in Pontiac

This role is categorized as hybrid. The successful candidate is expected to report to Pontiac, MI four (4) times per week, at minimum.

The GM Motorsports Propulsion and Performance Team supports a wide range of racing series in which GM competes by providing propulsion system design, development, assembly, and trackside support. These series include, but are not limited to, NASCAR, LMDh, GT3 Corvette Racing, IndyCar, and off-road racing. In addition to motorsports, the team drives product development for Chevrolet Performance Parts projects, encompassing high-performance aftermarket crate engines, transmissions, electrification initiatives, GM Marine applications, and Original Equipment (OE) sales.

As the Design Lead in Performance and Racing, you will lead a team of designers and design engineers to develop innovative design solutions for complex systems and subsystems. Serve as the primary liaison between engineering and your design team, ensuring adherence to organizational standards and timely delivery of program requirements. Collaborate with Program Managers and Engineers across Performance and Racing teams. This role requires expertise in CAD tools, data management systems, Product Life-cycle Management, GD&T application, and design best practices. Powertrain design experience, strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and ability to work independently are essential.

What You’ll Do

• Lead the technical design and development of complex powertrain components and systems for performance and racing applications, from concept to production.
• Manage design work order assignments for the team and track project timing.
• Utilize Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software, specifically NX, to create detailed 3D models and engineering drawings.
• Lead integration of components and subsystems into complete systems.
• Apply GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) principles to ensure design intent and manufacturability.
• Oversee and manage product data throughout the design lifecycle using Siemens Teamcenter for robust Data Management.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders and proactively resolve technical issues.
• Facilitate and contribute to the Visualization Mockup process to evaluate design aesthetics, ergonomics, and feasibility.
• Drive the Math Release Process for critical design data, ensuring accuracy and adherence to company and racing team standards.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineering, CAE, manufacturing, and validation to integrate designs and resolve technical challenges.
• Utilize Aspera P2P for efficient data transfer and collaboration with external partners and suppliers.
• Implement SMT (Simulation and Modeling Technologies) where applicable to optimize performance and predict behaviour of designed components.
• Support design work requests from operations team, such as fixture designs for machining, and dyno test lab hardware design.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior designers and engineers on best practices and design methodologies.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and competitive landscape in performance and racing.

What You’ll Need (Required Qualifications)

• Associate’s degree or equivalent experience in Design Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in automotive or mechanical design.
• Expert-level proficiency in NX CAD.
• High-level, expert understanding of powertrain and engine components.
• Proven design experience with powertrain components.
• Extensive knowledge of designing for manufacturing processes, including castings, stampings, plastic mouldings.
• Strong understanding of design standards, best practices, and global design guidelines.
• Proven ability to lead complex design projects and mentor designers and junior design engineers.
• Experience with manufacturability principles, design-for-assembly, and integration.
• Familiarity with CAE analysis, clearance studies, and virtual integration methods.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills across cross-functional teams.
• Ability to work under compressed timelines and deliver high-quality results.

What Will Give You A Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)

• Bachelor’s degree in design engineering or related field of study.
• Experience in Motorsport and High-Performance Powertrain.
• GM Data Management systems experience.

GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. This job is not eligible for relocation benefits. Any relocation costs would be the responsibility of the selected candidate.

General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.

Accommodations: General Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, email us or call us at 800-865-7580.