Controls Group Lead

GM Performance Power Units – Concord, NC

Controls Group Lead - Onsite

Job Summary

GM Performance Power Units is seeking a highly motivated Controls Group Lead to take full ownership of the control system for our Formula 1 Power Unit. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, this role offers a rare opportunity to shape a foundational area of our F1 program and build a world-class team around you. The Controls Group Leader will define and deliver both hardware and software solutions for our advanced hybrid power unit, targeted for debut with the Cadillac F1 Team in 2029. This includes establishing SiL and HiL programs, developing the necessary infrastructure, and driving innovation across all control system domains at the pinnacle of motorsport engineering.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop: Real-time control systems for the F1 Power Units within the regulatory framework.
• Test bench implementation: HiL specification and operational ownership, DiL component and software testing along with event support.
• Software engineering: Develop, test, and deploy software using languages like C, C , or Python for embedded systems.
• Modeling and simulation: Use tools like MATLAB/Simulink to create models of dynamic systems for simulation and control strategy validation.
• Compliance: Ensure all control systems comply with FIA technical regulations.
• Data analysis: Analyze performance and reliability data from all electrical systems and create solutions for improvement.
• Integration: Collaborate with other teams (e.g., chassis, powertrain, electronics) to ensure control systems are properly integrated within the vehicle system.
• Track support: Provide on-track support, diagnose issues, and propose solutions to ensure performance and reliability during race weekends.
  
  

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Computer, Software, Mechanical or a related engineering discipline.
• Experience in control systems design, development, and implementation for real-time applications.
• Software skills: Proficiency in programming for embedded systems (e.g., C, C , Python) and experience with modeling and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink).
• Technical knowledge: Familiarity with vehicle dynamics, powertrain control, and data acquisition systems. Experience with specific motorsport tools like McLaren Applied Technologies is a plus.
• Soft skills: Strong teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to work under pressure and adapt to a dynamic environment.
• Flexibility: Willingness to travel for testing and race events and attendance in mission control.
  
  

Technical Skills

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Intimate knowledge of PU control theory
• Strong background and programming capability in Simulink
• Formula 1 experience with TAG hardware utilization
• Prior experience creating a controls department
• Deep understanding of MGU inverters
• Knowledge of ICE / MGU and synchroneity and energy management
• Demonstrated proficiency in automotive racing electronic systems
• A degree in a related engineering field with an advanced degree beneficial
• Solid organizational and leadership skills
• Ability to work across teams and disciplines
• Capability to present data clearly and concisely
• Excellent communication skills
  
  

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.