Racing Performance Engineer Intern - Vehicle Engineering Group
About the job
- The candidate must be working toward an Engineering Bachelor's Degree.
- The candidate must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.8.
- The candidate must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
- The candidate must have basic knowledge of vehicle dynamics, vehicle subsystems, simulation, and testing.
- The candidate must have a basic background in applying probability and statistics to real data, defining problems, and evaluating the effectiveness of problem-solving techniques.
- The candidate must have basic knowledge of managing large data sets and quickly prototyping clear, interactive solutions for moderately large datasets.
- The candidate must have mechanical aptitude and the ability to understand and use machines or lab tools.
- The candidate must be able to work quickly and efficiently on a tight schedule with little technical guidance.
- The candidate must have excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
- The candidate must have proficiency in popular vehicle dynamics software and experience using simulation tools for dynamic systems investigation, implementation, and verification, including Simulink/MATLAB and PME VES.
- The candidate must have experience with data analysis software, including Pi Toolbox and Motec.
- The candidate must have proficient personal computer skills, including Excel, PowerPoint, and database management.
- Set up and support 7-Post Test activities, including instrumentation placement and recalibration, operation and data processing, data analysis, recording setup changes in the database, and preventive maintenance as needed.
- Perform Ride Rate Rig testing, including car installation and removal, full rig test operation, assistance to Race Engineers and Mechanics, and setup and preparation of various compliance tests.
- Assist with planning and preparation for offsite testing rig sessions, including attending sessions to help with setup and changes.
- Perform general laboratory maintenance and upkeep.
- Construct Data Build Sheets and provide basic system setup and test support as needed.
- Create basic tools to support race-day activities.
- Assist with pre-event and post-event reports.
- Support race-day team activities.
About the company
Hendrick Motorsports is a top-tier NASCAR racing organization that fields four full-time Chevrolet Cup teams with drivers Kyle Larson, Chase Elliott, William Byron and Alex Bowman, along with the No. 17 HendrickCars.com Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. The team competes by preparing and racing its cars in points-paying Cup races, supported by a workforce of over 800 employees based in Concord, North Carolina. The company’s operations rely on a structured, in-house racing program that emphasizes performance, teamwork, and sponsorships to win races and championships. Hendrick Motorsports holds Cup Series records with 320 points-paying race victories and 15 championships, a reflection of its sustained success and competitive edge. Its goal is to continue winning races and titles, expanding its legacy in NASCAR, and maintaining its position as one of the sport’s premier organizations.
Company Size
501-1,000
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Charlotte, North Carolina
Founded
1984
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- Hendrick filed March 12, 2026 rezoning for 22 acres near Charlotte Motor Speedway.
- Ally stays on the No. 48 through Zilisch's 2028 arrival, preserving sponsor revenue.
- Bowman's 2027 retirement gives Hendrick time to engineer a clean transition.
What critics are saying
- Hendrick has only two 2026 wins through 23 races, both Chase Elliott victories.
- Toyota won 14 of 23 races in 2026, exposing Hendrick's pace deficit.
- If Zilisch stalls in Cup, the No. 48 loses its post-Bowman anchor.
What makes Hendrick Motorsports unique
- Since 2026, Hendrick leads NASCAR all-time with 322 wins and 15 championships.
- Its 2026 WWT Raceway notes boast 62 postseason wins, unmatched across the field.
- The No. 48 succession to Connor Zilisch gives Hendrick elite-driver continuity through 2028.
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Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Flexible Work Hours
Remote Work Options
Paid Vacation
Paid Holidays
Sabbatical Leave
Hybrid Work Options
401(k) Retirement Plan
401(k) Company Match
Wellness Program
Mental Health Support
Gym Membership
Phone/Internet Stipend
Home Office Stipend
Professional Development Budget
Conference Attendance Budget
Training Programs
Tuition Reimbursement
Professional Certification Support
Mentorship Program
Life Insurance
Disability Insurance
Parental Leave
Family Planning Benefits
Fertility Treatment Support
Adoption Assistance
Childcare Support
Elder Care Support
Stock Options
Company Equity
Commuter Benefits
Meal Benefits
Employee Discounts
Company News
BLADE Proposes Hunter WOLF, a Donkey Robot for the US Army. AIRSPACE REVIEW - BLADE, the robotics company formerly known as HDT, has submitted its Hunter WOLF unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) design for the US Army's ILTM (Infantry Last Tactical Mile) initiative. The ILTM program is the US Army's effort to acquire multi-purpose robotic vehicles to operate near the front lines of the battlefield. Nicknamed the Robot Donkey, this vehicle is used to move ammunition and supplies forward or bring back wounded. It operates autonomously, without the direct involvement of soldiers. BLADE was one of six vendors selected for the program in August 2026, competing against Maren-Go, Overland AI, Forterra, Hendrick's Motorsports, and American Rheinmetall. Vendors will deliver production-ready prototypes that will undergo a series of demonstrations and assessments, culminating in an operational assessment with Army units in early 2027. The US Army and the US Department of War (DoW) will test the robots at Camp Grafton, North Dakota, on October 19-23, 2026, in an activity known as GroundBreaker 1. With the feedback intended to form the basis for production decisions for the next generation autonomous assault infantry system. Load capacity 1,270 kg. Hunter WOLF (Wheeled Offload Logistics Follower) is equipped with a diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system, with a 6x6 wheeled drive system that can carry loads of up to 1,270 kg. The vehicle can operate in all terrains, including driving through dense forests, climbing 60 percent inclines, and traversing 40 percent side slopes. Its operating range is up to 322 km. Another advantage of the Hunter WOLF is that it can supply electrical power to other equipment in the field. For specifications, the Hunter WOLF has dimensions of 2.3 m long, 1.4 m wide, and 1.17 m high, with an empty weight of around 1,100 kg. With its compact dimensions, the vehicle can be loaded onto V-22 Osprey and C-130J Super Hercules aircraft. (RBS)
NASCAR playoff strategy shifts after Bell Darlington win. Key takeaways. * By overtaking **Kyle Larson** with only 18 laps remaining, Bell demonstrated the tactical precision required to navigate the high-stakes pressure of the postseason. * This win marks a significant momentum shift for **Joe Gibbs Racing**, as the team looks to solidify its championship contention against the dominant **Hendrick Motorsports** fleet. TrendPulse analysis. Industry context. This victory underscores the intensifying rivalry between the sport's two powerhouses: Joe Gibbs Racing and Hendrick Motorsports. In recent seasons, the parity introduced by the **Next Gen car** has forced teams to rely more heavily on data-driven pit strategies and real-time fuel management rather than raw mechanical dominance alone. Bell's win is a testament to the increasing importance of engineering efficiency in a series where the margin for error has shrunk to mere inches. Furthermore, the Southern 500 remains one of the most critical data points for manufacturers. Because Darlington is a high-wear, abrasive track, the performance metrics gathered here are often used to calibrate aerodynamic packages for the remainder of the playoffs. For sponsors and stakeholders, the visibility of a playoff-opening win at such a historic venue provides significant brand equity, reinforcing the value of NASCAR's integrated marketing ecosystem. Why this matters. For investors and industry stakeholders, Bell's win signals a potential recalibration of the championship favorites. While Larson remains a statistical favorite based on season-long performance, the playoff format rewards 'clutch' performance over consistency. This creates a high-variance environment that is increasingly attractive to media partners and broadcasters who rely on dramatic, unpredictable finishes to drive viewership numbers. Decision-makers should view this result as a case study in risk management. Teams that prioritize long-term playoff survival over individual race wins often find themselves vulnerable to the 'win-and-you're-in' pressure of the elimination rounds. Moving forward, expect to see increased investment in simulation technology and pit crew performance as teams attempt to mitigate the volatility of these high-stakes races. The ability to execute under pressure is no longer just a driver trait; it is a core organizational competency that directly correlates to sponsorship retention and team valuation. The bottom line. Christopher Bell's victory at Darlington proves that tactical adaptability is the most valuable asset in the modern NASCAR playoff era, forcing competitors to prioritize late-race execution over season-long points accumulation. Read the full article. This analysis is based on reporting from ESPN
The NASCAR Foundation heads to New York for Honors Gala and Speedy Bear Brigade Powered by Kaulig Giving. By NASCAR Foundation Release NASCAR.com Published: September 2, 2026 Kaulig Giving DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - In celebration of The NASCAR Foundation's 20th anniversary, the non-profit will host multiple events in New York City to honor two decades of serving racing communities across the United States and beyond. The two-day celebration will kick off with The NASCAR Foundation Honors Gala at the Ziegfeld Ballroom on the evening of Tuesday, Sept. 8, hosted by the France family in collaboration with the evening's Leadership Sponsors, including Brown & Brown, Kaulig Racing, Hendrick Motorsports and Next League. Various current and former NASCAR drivers, team owners and executives as well as special guests across the sports and entertainment industry will be in attendance. The celebrations will continue the following day on Wednesday, Sept. 9, with The Speedy Bear Brigade Powered by Kaulig Giving, where drivers and representatives from both The NASCAR Foundation and Kaulig Racing will deliver NASCAR-themed Teddy Bears to children at Hassenfeld Children's Hospital at NYU Langone. "For 20 years, The NASCAR Foundation has been proud to bring the NASCAR community together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families," said Nichole Krieger, vice president and executive director of The NASCAR Foundation. "This anniversary is a celebration of the incredible impact our supporters, partners, drivers and fans have helped us create, and we're excited to mark this milestone in New York City while continuing to bring the spirit of NASCAR to children who need it most." The NASCAR Foundation Honors Gala will also honor the four finalists of the 16th annual Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award, with the winner being announced at the end of the evening's celebrations and receiving a $100,000 donation from The NASCAR Foundation to further their philanthropic efforts. The award, named in honor of the foundation's late founder and chairwoman Betty Jane France, recognizes inspiring NASCAR fans who volunteer for children's causes across their regions. Additionally, FOX Sports CEO Eric Shanks will be honored with the Champion for Children Award, recognizing an individual whose leadership, philanthropy and commitment to children have created meaningful opportunities and lasting impact for young people in our racing communities. Much like Mrs. France, the recipient of the award embodies the ideals that every child deserves opportunity, the importance of giving back and a commitment to using their platform to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Guests attending the gala spread a wide range of those within the industry and beyond, including current NASCAR drivers such as Joey Logano, Ross Chastain, AJ Allmendinger, Ty Dillon, Connor Zilisch and Jesse Love. Multiple NASCAR Legends and Hall of Famers are also set to attend, including NASCAR Champion and Hall of Famer Rusty Wallace as well as two-time Daytona 500 Champion and NASCAR/FOX Broadcaster Michael Waltrip. Emmy and Tony Award winning actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth will also give a special performance at the Honors Gala, singing multiple songs from her impressive Broadway resume. Following the Honors Gala, NASCAR Cup Series drivers AJ Allmendinger and Ty Dillon will join The NASCAR Foundation Vice President and Executive Director Nichole Krieger and NASCAR Owner and Founder of Kaulig Giving Matt Kaulig to deliver Speedy Bears to Hassenfeld Children's Hospital at NYU Langone. The group will begin the day with a special presentation at the hospital, followed by visits to children, hand-delivering both smiles and the NASCAR-themed Speedy bears. "The Speedy Bear Brigade is a special program because it gives us an opportunity to bring comfort and joy to children and families when they need it most," said Matt Kaulig, NASCAR team owner and founder of Kaulig Giving. "We're incredibly proud to have been part of the growth of this program and to help bring the NASCAR community together to reach more children each year. Seeing the smiles these bears bring is what makes Speedy Bear so meaningful to all of us." While 2026 marks 20 years of The NASCAR Foundation as a whole, it's also the 10th anniversary of The Speedy Bear Brigade Powered by Kaulig Giving, celebrating a decade of delivering NASCAR-themed teddy bears to hospitals across all 50 states, as well as Mexico and Canada. The NASCAR Foundation Honors Gala Red Carpet will begin at 6 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Sept. 8, with the event commencing at 7:30 p.m. Then, the festivities continue Wednesday, Sept. 9, with the Speedy Bear Brigade Powered by Kaulig Racing, all taking place in New York City.
Connor Zilisch has signed a multiyear contract with Hendrick Motorsports to drive the No. 48 Chevrolet starting in 2028. The 20-year-old rookie, currently racing for Trackhouse Racing, will replace Alex Bowman, who announced last month he will step away from full-time racing after the 2027 season. Zilisch currently ranks 34th in the Cup Series standings, with a series-leading eight DNFs. Team owner Rick Hendrick praised Zilisch's talent and character, calling him "a truly gifted young racer." Ally will continue as primary sponsor of the No. 48 Chevy, a role it has held since 2019. Zilisch said joining Hendrick Motorsports represents "one of those moments you dream about as a kid.
Connor Zilisch Lands Hendrick Motorsports No. 48 Chevrolet Ride Beginning in 2028 Reading Time: 3 mins read One of NASCAR's brightest young stars already knows where the next chapter of his rapidly accelerating career will take him. Hendrick Motorsports announced Monday that Connor Zilisch has signed a multi-year agreement with the organization and will take over the No. 48 Ally Chevrolet beginning with the 2028 NASCAR Cup Series season. Zilisch will succeed Alex Bowman, whose previously announced retirement from full-time competition following the 2027 season will open one of NASCAR's most recognizable seats. The agreement represents another significant milestone in the rapid ascent of Zilisch, a 20-year-old Charlotte, North Carolina native who has emerged as one of the sport's premier young talents. "Connor is a truly gifted young racer," Hendrick Motorsports owner Rick Hendrick said. "His talent behind the wheel is exceptional, but I'm even more impressed by the person he is. "When someone with that kind of ability and character becomes available, you do everything you can to bring them into your organization. "We have tremendous confidence in Connor, and we believe he's the right driver to build on the legacy of the No. 48 Ally team for many years to come." That legacy is considerable. Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson made the No. 48 synonymous with Hendrick Motorsports success, collecting 83 victories during his Hall of Fame career. Bowman took over the entry beginning with the 2021 season and will remain behind the wheel through 2027. When Zilisch takes over in 2028, he will become just the third full-time driver of the No. 48 during its modern Hendrick Motorsports tenure. "This is one of those moments you dream about as a kid," Zilisch said. "Hendrick Motorsports has always represented the standard in its sport, and being entrusted to help continue that legacy means everything to me. "The chance to drive a Chevrolet for Mr. Hendrick, carry the colors of an incredible partner like Ally and compete alongside some of the best drivers and people in racing is what you work so hard for. "I'm grateful for the confidence they've shown in me, and it's my job to prove they made the right decision." Zilisch's road to Hendrick Motorsports has been remarkably quick. After beginning his career in karting, Zilisch transitioned to sports cars and showcased his versatility with class victories in both the Rolex 24 At DAYTONA and the 12 Hours of Sebring in 2024. Later that year, less than two months after turning 18, Zilisch made an immediate impact in his NASCAR O'Reilly Series debut at Watkins Glen International, leading 45 of 90 laps en route to victory. Driving for Hendrick Motorsports affiliate JR Motorsports in 2025, Zilisch followed with a dominant 10-win campaign that included eight poles, 18 consecutive top-five finishes and the regular season championship. Through 45 series starts, he has earned 13 victories and 10 poles. Zilisch made three NASCAR Cup Series starts for Trackhouse Racing in 2025 before beginning his first full-time campaign with the organization this season. He will remain with Trackhouse next year before transitioning to Hendrick Motorsports in 2028. His arrival will also coincide with Ally Financial's 10th season as the full-season primary partner of the No. 48 team. "We've spent nearly a decade investing in the No. 48's storied legacy alongside Hendrick Motorsports, and handing the wheel to a driver of Connor's caliber is such an incredible way to begin another historic chapter," said Andrea Brimmer, Ally's chief marketing and public relations officer. While there remains plenty of racing before Zilisch officially arrives at Hendrick Motorsports, Monday's announcement gives the organization a definitive succession plan for one of its cornerstone teams. And for Zilisch, a career that has moved rapidly since his arrival on NASCAR's national stage now has its biggest destination yet: the keys to the No. 48.