Vice President of Competition, Race Engineering

POSITION TITLE:
Vice President of Competition Race Engineering

REPORTS TO:
SVP INDYCAR Competition & Operations

LOCATION:
Indianapolis IN

FLSA STATUS:
Exempt

EMPLOYMENT TYPE:
Full-Time

ABOUT US

At Penske Entertainment we dont just host world-class eventswe create unforgettable moments. Our team fuels four iconic motorsports brands:

• Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) home of the worlds largest spectator sporting facility and annually hosts the worlds most prestigious auto race: the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge.
• INDYCAR - The Indianapolis-based governing body for North Americas premier open-wheel auto racing series the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and its developmental series INDY NXT by Firestone.
• IMS Productions - A multifaceted broadcast and multimedia division that helps bring INDYCAR and IMS events to life for global audiences.
• Motorsports Events Management (MEM) Promotes major events featuring premier motorsports series throughout the United States.

Whether on the track behind the scenes or on the screen our people are at the heart of everything we do. If youre ready for a career where excitement purpose and impact collidewe want to meet you.

WHAT YOULL DO

As the Vice President of Competition and Race Engineering for Americas premier open-wheel racing series you will drive INDYCARs engineering and technological vision to deliver the best racing product collaboration with key stakeholders you will take a balanced and strategic approach to strengthen the series cultivate internal and external relationships communicate a clear vision for progress and growth and foster a culture of high performance across the organization.

The Vice President Race Engineering is a senior leadership role responsible for shaping all aspects of INDYCARs vehicle performance strategy race engineering operations and on-track technical integrity. This individual will lead the Race Engineering functionintegrating data science simulation testing and applied engineeringto ensure competitive safe and captivating racing throughout the series.

Serving as INDYCARs central technical voice the VP will work closely with teams manufacturers and suppliers to align technical direction and sporting regulations with the series goals. This role will also play a key part in developing future engineering initiatives including the design development and integration of INDYCARs next-generation chassis planned for 2028keeping the series innovative relevant and at the forefront of global motorsport technology.

This position requires exceptional leadership deep technical expertise in open-wheel racing and a forward-thinking approach to performance innovation and regulatory excellence.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as a senior engineering authority in regulatory discussions regarding chassis powertrain hybrid systems aerodynamics tires dampers and other vehicle components.
• Work with the SVP Competition and the Director of Engineering to define long-term technical roadmaps including input into future vehicle platforms and R&D initiatives.
• Act as INDYCARs primary technical liaison to race teams OEMs and suppliers (e.g. Dallara Firestone BBS).
• Chair technical working groups to ensure transparency and collaboration on key performance issues.
• Manages relationships with all specified equipment Suppliers associated with the car and related technical support.
• Provide objective engineering-based insights that guide rulemaking and technical bulletins.
• Fosters a culture that reflects the organizations values encourages superior performance and rewards productivity.
• Evaluates the organization and staff performance on a regular basis.
• Creates annual operating plans that support strategic direction set by the SVP and correlates with annual operating budgets.
• Directly supports the establishment or renewal process for all Supplier and Manufacturer agreements or contracts.
• Provides direction and oversight on the development of future chassis engine aerodynamic and technical initiatives.
• Maintains ongoing aggressive efforts to enhance safety technologies.
• Develops future leadership within the organization.

WHAT YOU BRING

Were looking for someone whos ready to bring great effort every day and is committed to growing with us.

Required Experience & Skills:

• 10 years in senior engineering roles within top-tier motorsports (e.g. INDYCAR F1 IMSA WEC or NASCAR) including experience managing technical programs or race engineering.
• In-depth knowledge of vehicle dynamics aerodynamics powertrain systems and race operations.
• Strong team leadership and interpersonal skills with ability to communicate complex technical ideas across various stakeholder levels.
• Proven senior leadership experience in motorsport engineering ideally in open-wheel racing.
• Strong understanding of sporting and technical regulations with the ability to balance innovation competition and cost control.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and collaborate with manufacturers suppliers and teams.
• Experience in simulation data science testing and applied engineering for performance development.
• Exceptional communication skills capable of articulating a clear vision to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Strategic forward-looking mindset with the ability to guide long-term projects including major platform shifts (e.g. chassis or powertrain programs).
• Commitment to safety integrity and the highest standards of competition.
• Executive level writing and analytical skills
• Willingness to live in Indianapolis or the surrounding communities
• Cultural competence and the ability to thrive in a diverse environment
• Alignment with Penske Entertainments core values and standards

Education:

• Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering Motorsports Engineering or related field.

Leadership:

• This position has supervisory responsibility for a minimum of (2) full-time employees.

FLEXIBILITY & TRAVEL

• Standard hours are MondayFriday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
• Extended hours required during race weekends and key event periods (especially May)
• This position requires travel to all race events during the INDYCAR Series racing season as well as occasional additional travel requirements. Flexibility and adaptability are key skills needed for this role.
• Our teams work together to create flexibility that supports life in and out of work

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
• Extended periods of standing or walking (as needed)
• Comfort working indoors/outdoors and around event noise

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Fast-paced collaborative office and event settings
• Outdoors at race events and other functions

BENEFITS & PERKS

We take care of our team with a competitive benefits package that includes:

• Medical dental vision and life insurance
• 401(k) with 100% company match up to 5%
• Paid vacation personal and sick days 12 paid holidays
• Generous paid parental leave and tuition assistance
• On-site fitness center and wellness programs
• Discounts on meals gear and more

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

Penske Entertainment is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Were committed to creating a workplace where everyone can thriveregardless of race gender orientation background or ability.

Required Experience:

Exec