Description
We are seeking a Brake Performance Engineer to join our Controls and Systems team in Banbury, supporting the development, analysis and optimisation of Formula 1 braking systems.
You will combine deep technical expertise in brake systems, vehicle dynamics and carbon/carbon friction materials with data analysis, modelling and testing activities. Working across multiple engineering disciplines, you will help improve braking performance, reliability and understanding, while supporting both factory-based development and race operations.
Responsibilities:
- Provide technical expertise on braking systems, including master cylinders, calipers, Brake-by-Wire systems, carbon/carbon friction materials, brake balance optimisation, tyre force interaction and vehicle dynamics.
- Plan, coordinate and execute dynamometer testing to map carbon/carbon brake material friction and wear characteristics.
- Investigate braking system issues and faults using race car and test rig data, responding to trackside feedback and performance concerns.
- Develop analytical metrics, methodologies and tools to evaluate braking system functionality, performance and reliability.
- Create and maintain brake system models, correlating simulation results with race car data to improve accuracy and understanding.
- Collaborate with Thermal and Aerodynamics engineers to define and optimise brake operating temperature windows.
- Support race operations from the Race Support Room, providing analysis, recommendations and engineering support to trackside teams when required.
- Prepare technical reports and communicate findings to stakeholders with varying levels of technical expertise.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities to enhance engineering processes, tools and methodologies.
- Build effective working relationships across engineering departments and act as a key point of contact for braking-system-related activities.
Requirements:
- Degree or equivalent qualification in an Engineering discipline.
- Experience with carbon/carbon friction materials and braking system hydraulic components, including master cylinders, calipers and Brake-by-Wire systems.
- Experience analysing test rig and race car data.
- Strong understanding of race car vehicle dynamics.
- Experience developing engineering models and data-driven analysis tools.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce technical reports and present findings clearly.
- Proficiency in MATLAB and Simulink.
- High level of computer literacy, including Microsoft Office applications.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving and fault-finding abilities.
- Ability to work effectively in a high-pressure, fast-paced motorsport environment.
- Flexible approach to working hours, including weekends and race events when required.
Benefits:
- Competitive rewards and bonuses
- Year-round health and wellbeing programmes
- Support and tools to help you perform at your best