At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and development of high-performance internal combustion engines for elite motorsports.
- Company: Join GM Performance Power Units, a leader in innovative motorsport engineering.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, private healthcare, generous leave, and a bonus scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic startup environment backed by a legacy of engineering excellence.
- Why this job: Shape the future of motorsports and push engineering boundaries with a passionate team.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in ICE design, strong leadership skills, and experience in high-performance motorsport.
The predicted salary is between 47250 - 57750 £ per year.
- GM Performance Power Units - Concord, NC
- Chief Engineer - ICE - Onsite
- Job Summary
GM Performance Power Units is seeking a dynamic and visionary Chief Engineer – Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) to lead the design, development, and delivery of the internal combustion engine for our Power Unit Programs.
As Chief Engineer, you will own the full lifecycle of ICE technical development, from concept to track deployment, ensuring alignment with regulations, performance targets, and integration into the hybrid powertrain system.
This is a rare opportunity to shape the technical DNA of GMPPU’s future in elite motorsports.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the ICE architecture, design, performance optimization, and reliability engineering in line with the technical regulations and performance benchmarks.
- Collaborate closely with hybrid system, ERS, controls, and chassis teams to ensure seamless integration and system-level optimization.
- Drive performance validation through advanced simulation, test bench programs, dyno testing, and track data analysis.
- Manage ICE-related technical partnerships and external suppliers (materials, components, manufacturing partners, etc.).
- Direct a multi-disciplinary team of engineers, including thermodynamics, combustion, mechanical design, calibration, and simulation experts.
- Ensure delivery of program milestones in alignment with project schedules, cost targets, and homologation timelines.
- Establish best-in-class engineering practices in line with competitive benchmarks.
- Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field. Masters degree preferred.
- 10+ years of experience in ICE design and development, with at least 5 years in a senior engineering leadership role within a high-performance motorsport environment (preferably F1, WEC, Indy Car, or similar).
- Proven track record of delivering high-performance, high-reliability racing ICEs under homologation constraints.
- Deep understanding of combustion systems, materials science, thermal management, fuel technologies, and hybrid integration.
- Strong leadership and communication skills with experience managing multi-disciplinary engineering teams.
- Experience with AVL, Ricardo, GT-Power, MATLAB/Simulink, and relevant CAD/CAE tools.
- Preferred Qualifications
- Direct experience developing a F1, WEC, Indy Car, or similar power unit, with a strong understanding of regulatory and technical constraints.
- Familiarity with biofuels, advanced turbocharging, energy recovery systems (ERS), and hybrid controls strategy.
- Strategic thinker with an innovative mindset and the ability to influence stakeholders across engineering, racing operations, and executive leadership.
Ready to be part of a team that pushes boundaries both on and off the track?
At GM Performance Power Units, we are developing a new era of performance for the Formula 1 grid.
Joining us means entering a startup racing environment backed by a legacy of engineering excellence, giving you the rare opportunity to help build a world-class program from day one.
We believe in rewarding innovation and powering potential.
As part of our team, you’ll benefit from a competitive and comprehensive package designed to support your performance, well-being, and future, helping you thrive at every level.
That includes access to
- Bonus scheme
- Private healthcare
- 401(k) plan including company match
- Employer-paid life insurance and disability coverage
- 32 days annual leave (including holidays)
- Free financial advisor access
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
- Subsidized on-site dining
- On-site gym
- Discounted GM vehicle purchase/lease program
- Free on-site EV charging for personal GM vehicles
It’s all part of our commitment to creating a workplace that’s as high-performing and forward-thinking as the people who make it succeed.
Join us and help power what’s next.
Why Join Us
You’ll play a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability and performance of a next-generation Formula 1 power unit.
Our culture rewards precision, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of performance.
Please note: GM Performance Power Units and all affiliated companies are Equal Opportunity employer(s).
Minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
For more information regarding the EEOC, please visit https://www. eeoc. gov/employers/upload/poster_screen_reader_optimized. pdf .
Only direct hires need apply to or inquire about job postings at GM Performance Power Units. We are not accepting calls, resumes or applications from recruiting firms at this time.
Chief Engineer - ICE in Concord employer: GM Performance Power Units
At GM Performance Power Units in Concord, NC, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and high performance. As a Harness & Component Application Specialist, you'll enjoy a competitive benefits package, including private healthcare, a bonus scheme, and access to an on-site gym, all while working in a dynamic environment that encourages professional growth and collaboration with top-tier engineering teams. Join us to be part of a legacy of excellence in Formula 1, where your contributions will directly impact the future of motorsport technology.
Contact Details:
GM Performance Power Units Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Engineer - ICE in Concord
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Engineering Events
Join local engineering meetups or industry conferences related to mechanical engineering. Whether it's a workshop or a career fair, these events are goldmines for networking and getting a foot in the door. Plus, you can showcase your passion and enthusiasm directly to potential employers like GM Performance Power Units.
✨Connect with Professors & Peers
Tap into your university’s resources—professors often have connections in the industry. Don’t be shy to ask about potential openings or recommendations. Your classmates might also know of companies hiring. Often, it’s who you know that gets you in front of the right people!
✨Highlight Your Projects and Practical Experience
When you land those interviews, make sure to talk about your hands-on projects or internships. Whether it's a design project or hands-on experience with CAD software, specific examples will make you stand out. Companies like GM Performance Power Units love to hear about practical applications of your skills.
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
Check out the careers page of GM Performance Power Units and apply directly through there. It shows initiative and interest in their specific values. Plus, you'll often find openings that aren't advertised on job boards, giving you a better chance to land that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Engineer - ICE in Concord
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Expertise:In mechanical engineering, it’s vital to highlight your technical skills and projects. Make sure to include relevant software proficiency (like CAD tools) in your CV. If you've worked on specific engineering projects, detail your key contributions — we want to see how you’ve applied your skills in a practical setting!
Focus on Problem-Solving Examples:Employers in mechanical engineering love to see how you handle challenges. Use your cover letter to share specific instances where you’ve solved a complex problem or improved a design. This will show us you're not just knowledgeable but also capable of applying that knowledge effectively.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Include any relevant certifications or training that can set you apart from the competition. Whether it's coursework from your degree, a recognised certification, or extra training in new technologies, we love to see candidates who continuously improve their skill set. This tells us you're serious about your career in engineering!
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don’t forget to customise your CV for GM Performance Power Units and the Chief Engineer - ICE role specifically. Pull examples from your experience that align with the job description — it shows us you've done your research and are genuinely interested in becoming part of the team. We recommend applying through our website to ensure your application gets to the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at GM Performance Power Units
✨Brush Up on Your CAD Skills
Since mechanical engineering often involves design processes, be ready to showcase your proficiency in CAD software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Bring along a digital portfolio or even some sketches that demonstrate your design capabilities — it’s a great way to show what you can bring to the table at GM Performance Power Units.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that test your understanding of engineering principles and problem-solving skills. You might get hypothetical scenarios where you need to design a component or troubleshoot a mechanical system. Practising these types of questions will give you the confidence to tackle whatever comes your way!
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a full-time mechanical engineer, collaboration is key! Be ready to share examples of past team projects or any experiences where you contributed to solving a complex problem with others. Demonstrating your ability to work in a team will resonate well with the interviewers at GM Performance Power Units.
✨Discuss Your Future Goals
Since this is a full-time position, your long-term vision is important. Be open about your career aspirations, whether it’s mastering a specific tool or leading projects. This shows that you're committed not just to learning but also to growing with GM Performance Power Units, making you a more appealing candidate.
