Senior Performance Optimisation Engineer

The company:

Williams’ core competencies are the design and development of racing cars to compete in the Formula One World Championship. As one of the worlds leading Formula One teams, the company has secured 16 FIA Formula One World Championship titles since its foundation in 1977 and is now moving into an exciting era under new ownership defined by relentless innovation and living sustainable performance in every dimension.

Role Purpose:  

You will be part of the Performance optimisation team that has the primary goal of answering the challenging vehicle performance questions through leveraging our simulation tools and thus advancing our understanding of overall car performance. 

Working closely with other teams including Vehicle Dynamics and the Design Office, the Performance Optimisation team will look at both current and future car programs using our prime simulation tools and driver in the loop simulator to steer the current and future car development.  

We strive to answer questions across the whole car, taking direction from the Chief Engineers to research all mechanical performance trades, aerodynamics, tyre performance, brake performance and suspension optimisation.   

As a senior engineer within the team, you will take responsibility for leading projects and coaching and mentoring more junior members of the team.  

You will thrive in an environment of clear, continuous communication and collaboration, able to successfully manage priorities and deliver results in a dynamic setting. You will seek opportunities through curiosity and demonstrate a growth mindset.   

Main Duties:  

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  Perform simulation and analysis activities related to all areas of car performance, aero characteristics, suspension optimisation, tyre optimisation and stiffness / weight trades. 

  
  
  

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  Conduct DIL Simulator vehicle dynamics & performance related studies. 

  
  
  

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  Take the lead on Performance Optimisation related projects  

  
  
  

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  Set the standards of how to optimise car performance, providing a high level of confidence in results and reporting  

  
  
  

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  Act as a role model and coach and mentor for the team, supporting the Head of Performance Optimisation with the delivery of set KPI’s and contributing to overall direction and strategy  

  
  
  

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  Assisting in race & test event support duties on an ad hoc basis (requiring weekend work as appropriate). 

  
  
  

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  Performing research into areas relevant to department operations. 

  
  
  

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  Maintaining positive relationships with all other factory departments. 

  
  
  

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  Stay abreast of industry trends and advancements, incorporating innovation solutions into practice.  

  
  
  

Qualifications and Experience Level:  

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  Proven track record of working in Vehicle Dynamics / Performance Optimisation in a Formula 1 environment.  

  
  
  

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  Relevant degree (or equivalent)  

  
  
  

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  Experience of coaching and mentoring more junior members of the team to support their development and growth  

  
  
  

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  Confident and well organised with the ability to clearly prioritise tasks and make sound decisions, based on good judgment, seeking input as required   

  
  
  

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  Great analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and trends  

  
  
  

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  Demonstrates a solution focussed approach and is proactive in resolving any challenge that they are faced with  

  
  
  

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  Inquisitive mind that can look at questions and problems from different directions and use our simulation tools to solve these performance questions.  

  
  
  

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  Foster a collaborative and innovative working environment, whilst working under pressure   

  
  
  

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  Experience with Matlab, Python, Modelica and Dymola useful 

  
  
  

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  Able to effectively communicate, convey and present complex technical information to diverse audiences 

  
  
  

This job description is not exhaustive, and the job holder will be required to carry out from time-to-time tasks in addition to the above that will be both reasonable and within their capabilities.  

What can Williams offer?

The Williams Group is based in multi acre complex located in Grove, Oxfordshire. The Williams Group offers a competitive holiday package, staff events/open days, a subsidised restaurant on site and various car schemes. We have an on-site gym (open 24 hours a day) as well as various fitness classes including outdoors bootcamps, pilates and yoga free for all staff and contractors to use. Aside from these benefits we can offer free onsite parking and large open green spaces to unwind during breaks. We are a based just 30 mins from Oxford City Centre by bus.

Williams is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusion. We are happy to discuss reasonable job adjustments