Technical Specialist - ICE Valvetrain

GM Performance Power Units - Concord, NC

ICE Valvetrain Technical Specialist - Onsite

Job Summary

GM Performance Power Units is seeking an ICE Valvetrain Technical Specialist to join our Power Unit team in Concord, North Carolina, USA. In this role, you will apply expertise across engine design, engineering, manufacturing, supplier engagement, simulation, and analysis to support the design, validation, reliability, and optimization of high-performance engine components and systems.

The ICE Valvetrain Technical Specialist will serve as a technical expert for valvetrain systems within GMPPU. This role is responsible for directing the design and analysis of critical engine subsystems that influence performance, durability, packaging, stiffness, mass, and cost targets. The position also supports external partner engineering work, testing strategy development, technical issue resolution, and mentorship of junior team members.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct the design and execution of the engine valvetrain system, including camshaft assembly, finger follower assembly, intake and exhaust valves, and pneumatic valve spring system.
• Lead the design and analysis of the full valvetrain system to achieve targets for stress, stiffness, mass, durability, and cost.
• Direct the design and analysis of camshaft and fuel pump lift profiles.
• Direct the design and analysis of roller finger follower camshaft and valve tip contact surfaces.
• Direct the design and analysis of the pneumatic valvetrain system, including concept selection, performance requirements, and packaging within the engine.
• Guide and review valvetrain engineering work completed by outside partners.
• Define testing requirements to verify performance and reliability for components and complete systems.
• Establish quality checks for components and systems upon receipt and before testing or engine build.
• Respond to technical questions from GMPPU leadership and cross-functional colleagues regarding system performance and reliability.
• Mentor junior designers and engineers as requested by leadership.
• Lead and contribute to design reviews, ensuring technical accuracy, feasibility, and compliance with engineering standards.
• Support program execution by meeting milestones, deliverables, and technical objectives while communicating progress, risks, and mitigation strategies to leadership.
  
  

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 5 years of experience in a similar role or environment working with high-level racing engine parts and subsystems.
• Experience or strong understanding of:
• Engine valvetrain design and basic analysis.
• Siemens NX and affiliated tools preferred.
• GT-Suite or equivalent engine design tools.
• Knowledge of engineering fundamentals and first-principles problem solving.
• Understanding of materials behavior, structural response, and thermal/mechanical loading.
• Strong problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and information-sharing skills with the ability to influence teams and align leadership and engineering disciplines.
• Demonstrated experience developing junior engineers.
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in Formula 1, motorsport, or other high-performance racing engine environments.
• Familiarity with pneumatic valvetrain systems and high-speed valvetrain dynamics.
• Strong collaboration skills across design, analysis, manufacturing, and supplier teams.
• Proven ability to balance technical rigor with delivery against aggressive program timelines.
  
  

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
• 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 performance and reliability 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