Power Unit Plant Modeling Engineer

GM Performance Power Units - Concord, NC

Power Unit Plant Modeling Engineer - Onsite

Job Summary

GM Performance Power Units (GM PPU) is seeking a skilled Power Unit Plant Modeling Engineer to join our innovative engineering team in Concord, NC. This critical role develops high-fidelity 1D/0D transient plant models of F1 power unit systems (MGU, ES, ICE integration) that capture thermal-dependent performance degradation, life damage accumulation, and enable accurate lap-time simulation under race conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop coupled 1D transient plant models using GT-Suite or Simulink capturing MGU-K thermal degradation, ESME SoH decay, and ERS power limitations.
• Integrate component-level damage models (fatigue, wear, thermal cycling) from durability engineers into multi-lap/stint simulations.
• Create thermal-dependent efficiency maps, power derating curves, and performance degradation models validated against dyno telemetry.
• Couple plant models with lap-time simulation to predict realistic lap-time deltas from thermal states and component degradation.
• Support race strategy development through stint-length predictions, ERS deployment optimization, and thermal limit analysis.
• Collaborate with durability, thermal simulation, lap-time simulation, and controls teams to ensure model fidelity and accuracy.
• Analyze telemetry data to correlate model predictions with on-track performance and refine model parameters.
• Document modeling methodologies, assumptions, and validation results for team knowledge base and FIA technical submissions.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field; Master’s preferred.
• 3+ years experience in 1D/0D system simulation for powertrains, electric machines, or thermal systems.
• Proficiency with GT-Suite, Simulink, or equivalent 1D simulation platforms.
• Strong understanding of thermal transients, heat transfer, efficiency degradation, and multi-physics coupling.
• Experience with MATLAB/Python for model automation, post-processing, and data analysis.
• Familiarity with lap-time simulation tools and vehicle dynamics integration.
• Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail for high-fidelity model development.

Preferred Qualifications

• Motorsport or F1 experience with power unit plant modeling or ERS performance simulation.
• Experience developing damage accumulation models (Miner's rule, rainflow counting) for rotating machinery or electronics.
• Knowledge of F1 power unit architecture, technical regulations, and energy deployment constraints.
• Experience correlating simulation results with dyno/track telemetry data.
• Familiarity with optimal control, model predictive control, or race strategy optimization.
• Proficiency with Motion Applied (McLaren Applied) ATLAS or similar motorsport data analysis platforms.

Personal Attributes

• Methodical problem-solver with strong systems thinking and attention to model fidelity.
• Proactive collaborator who thrives integrating inputs from multiple engineering disciplines.
• Data-driven mindset comfortable working with complex telemetry datasets and validation.
• Passionate about motorsport performance with drive to deliver lap-time gains through modeling.
• Effective communicator who translates complex model results into actionable insights.

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.