📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Brake Performance Engineer
Company: ALTEN Technology USA
Location: Foster City, California
Job Type: On-site
Category: Automotive Engineering
Date Posted: 2025-06-19
Experience Level: 5-10 years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Develop and optimize brake performance and braking comfort for vehicles
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure harmonious interaction between brake and drivetrain actuators
Develop and track metrics and targets for vehicle-level performance
Lead data analysis and issue resolution, and monitor fleet performance via dashboards
Execute vehicle validation and lead FMVSS-related testing

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong understanding of hydraulic braking systems, vehicle dynamics, and hands-on experience with vehicles and data acquisition. Familiarity with brake performance tools and software is also beneficial.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

Brake Performance & Comfort Development: Design and implement brake performance and comfort features to meet or exceed vehicle requirements and customer expectations.
Brake & Drivetrain Interaction: Collaborate with drivetrain engineers to ensure seamless interaction between brake and drivetrain actuators, optimizing overall vehicle performance.
Vehicle-Level Performance Metrics: Develop and track metrics and targets for vehicle-level brake performance, ensuring consistent and reliable braking across all vehicle models and variants.
System & Component Requirements: Translate vehicle-level brake performance requirements into system and component-level specifications, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
Testing Methodologies: Develop and refine testing methodologies to improve the accuracy and efficiency of brake performance evaluation, staying up-to-date with the latest testing techniques and tools.
Simulation Development: Support the development of simulation models to predict vehicle performance under various braking scenarios, enabling proactive design and optimization.
Innovative Technical Concepts: Implement innovative technical concepts and solutions that enable optimal brake performance, staying current with emerging technologies and industry trends.
Vehicle Validation: Execute vehicle validation tests to ensure brake performance meets or exceeds design targets and customer expectations, and to identify and address any performance issues or anomalies.
Data Analysis & Issue Resolution: Lead data analysis and issue resolution efforts, collaborating with cross-functional teams to diagnose and resolve brake performance-related problems.
Fleet Performance Monitoring: Monitor fleet performance via dashboards, identifying trends, and addressing any performance degradation or reliability issues that may arise.
FMVSS Testing: Lead FMVSS-related testing efforts, ensuring compliance with federal motor vehicle safety standards and regulations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A B.S. or M.S. degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Automotive Engineering is required.

Experience: A minimum of 4 years of relevant experience in automotive brake development and vehicle testing is required. Experience with brake performance tools and software is preferred.

Required Skills:

Excellent understanding of hydraulic braking systems, including control systems and stability functions
Familiarity with vehicle dynamics on different surface conditions
Ability to test vehicles at or near their physical limits
Experience in vehicle-level and bench-level brake integration
Hands-on experience with vehicles, instrumentation, and data acquisition
Experience with brake performance tools and software (e.g., CANalyzer, INCA, MDA, MATLAB/Simulink, Racelogic Vbox)
Experience with ticket systems

Preferred Skills:

Experience with simulation tools and software (e.g., AVL Cruise, CarSim, Simulink)
Familiarity with FMVSS testing procedures and regulations
Knowledge of programming languages (e.g., Python, C, C++)
Experience with data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI, Tableau)

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates with experience in related fields, such as powertrain or vehicle dynamics, may also be considered for this role.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

A well-structured and up-to-date resume highlighting relevant experience and accomplishments in brake performance and vehicle testing
A portfolio of past projects, including detailed descriptions of your role, the challenges faced, and the solutions implemented
Examples of technical reports or presentations demonstrating your ability to communicate complex brake performance concepts effectively

Technical Documentation:

Detailed technical documentation for past brake performance projects, including design specifications, test results, and analysis
Evidence of your ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, such as meeting minutes, email correspondence, or chat logs
Examples of your problem-solving skills, such as root cause analysis reports or issue resolution plans

📝 Enhancement Note: While a web portfolio is not explicitly required for this role, providing one can help demonstrate your technical skills and commitment to potential employers.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $120,000 - $130,000 per year (actual salary offered is dependent on various factors, including location, candidate's combination of job-related knowledge, qualifications, skills, education, training, and experience)

Benefits:

Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) plan with employer matching
Paid time off (PTO)
Paid parental leave
Mentorship opportunities

Working Hours: Full-time, typically Monday through Friday, with the possibility of occasional overtime or weekend work to meet project deadlines or support vehicle testing activities

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is an estimate based on market research and may vary depending on the candidate's qualifications and experience. Benefits may also vary depending on the candidate's location and employment status.

🎯 Team & Company Context

Company Culture:

Industry: Automotive engineering, with a focus on vehicle dynamics, powertrain, and brake performance
Company Size: Medium to large, with over 600 employees across multiple offices in the United States
Founded: ALTEN Technology USA is a subsidiary of ALTEN Group, which was founded in 1983

Team Structure:

The brake performance team consists of engineers with varying levels of experience, working collaboratively to develop and optimize brake performance for a wide range of vehicle models and applications
The team is part of a larger organization that includes experts in vehicle dynamics, powertrain, and other automotive engineering disciplines, fostering a culture of cross-functional collaboration and knowledge-sharing
The team is led by experienced managers who provide guidance, mentorship, and career development opportunities for team members

Development Methodology:

The team follows a structured development process, including concept development, design, simulation, prototyping, testing, and validation, to ensure that brake performance meets or exceeds vehicle requirements and customer expectations
The team uses a combination of analytical tools, simulation software, and physical testing to evaluate and optimize brake performance
The team works closely with other automotive engineering disciplines, such as powertrain and vehicle dynamics, to ensure that brake performance is optimized in the context of overall vehicle performance and dynamics

Company Website: https://www.altenusa.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: ALTEN Technology USA is part of the ALTEN Group, a global leader in engineering and information technology with operations in over 30 countries. The company's extensive experience and global presence provide employees with opportunities for career growth and development.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Brake Performance Engineer Career Level: This role is typically at the mid-level to senior level within the brake performance engineering career path. Responsibilities may include leading projects, mentoring junior engineers, and contributing to the development of company-wide brake performance strategies and best practices.

Reporting Structure: The Brake Performance Engineer reports directly to the Brake Performance Manager, who is responsible for overseeing the brake performance team's activities and ensuring that brake performance targets are met. The Brake Performance Manager may report to the Director of Vehicle Dynamics or another senior leader within the organization.

Technical Impact: The Brake Performance Engineer plays a critical role in ensuring that vehicles meet or exceed brake performance targets and customer expectations. Their work directly impacts vehicle safety, handling, and overall performance, contributing to the company's success in the competitive automotive market.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Specialization: As the Brake Performance Engineer gains experience and expertise, they may have the opportunity to specialize in specific areas of brake performance, such as electric vehicle brake systems, active safety systems, or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS)
Technical Leadership: With experience and demonstrated leadership skills, the Brake Performance Engineer may have the opportunity to take on a technical leadership role, overseeing the work of junior engineers and contributing to the development of company-wide brake performance strategies and best practices
Cross-Functional Collaboration: The Brake Performance Engineer may have the opportunity to work on cross-functional projects, collaborating with experts in other automotive engineering disciplines to optimize overall vehicle performance and dynamics

📝 Enhancement Note: Career growth opportunities may vary depending on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and the organization's specific needs. However, ALTEN Technology USA's global presence and extensive experience in automotive engineering provide employees with numerous opportunities for career development and advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The Foster City office is a modern, collaborative workspace designed to facilitate cross-functional collaboration and knowledge-sharing among automotive engineering teams. The office features open-plan workspaces, dedicated meeting rooms, and state-of-the-art testing and simulation facilities.

Office Location(s): Foster City, California

Workspace Context:

Collaborative Environment: The office fosters a collaborative environment, with dedicated spaces for team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and informal discussions
Development Tools: The office is equipped with the latest development tools, including simulation software, data acquisition systems, and testing equipment, enabling engineers to work efficiently and effectively
Cross-Functional Interaction: The office is home to experts in various automotive engineering disciplines, providing ample opportunities for cross-functional collaboration and knowledge-sharing

Work Schedule: Full-time, typically Monday through Friday, with the possibility of occasional overtime or weekend work to meet project deadlines or support vehicle testing activities

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment at ALTEN Technology USA is designed to support the success of its employees, providing them with the tools, resources, and collaborative workspace they need to excel in their roles.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Phone or Video Screen: A brief phone or video call to discuss your background, experience, and motivation for the role. This step may include technical questions to assess your understanding of brake performance and vehicle dynamics concepts.
On-Site Interview: A visit to the Foster City office for a more comprehensive interview, including technical deep dives, case studies, and meetings with team members and managers. This step may also include a tour of the office's testing and simulation facilities.
Final Interview: A meeting with the hiring manager or another senior leader within the organization to discuss your fit for the role, answer any remaining questions, and make a final decision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight your experience with brake performance and vehicle testing, including any relevant projects, case studies, or success stories
Demonstrate your ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, providing examples of your work with powertrain engineers, vehicle dynamics experts, or other automotive engineering professionals
Showcase your problem-solving skills, explaining how you've approached and resolved brake performance challenges in the past
Tailor your portfolio to the specific requirements and priorities of the role, emphasizing your understanding of the company's brake performance goals and objectives

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on your knowledge of hydraulic braking systems, vehicle dynamics, and related automotive engineering concepts
Familiarize yourself with the latest brake performance tools and software, and be prepared to discuss their applications in the context of the role
Practice explaining complex brake performance concepts in simple, clear language, demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively with non-expert stakeholders

ATS Keywords: (Organized by category)

Programming Languages: Python, C, C++, MATLAB
Automotive Engineering: Vehicle Dynamics, Powertrain, Brake Performance, Active Safety Systems, ADAS
Testing & Simulation: CANalyzer, INCA, MDA, AVL Cruise, CarSim, Simulink
Data Analysis: Excel, Power BI, Tableau
Soft Skills: Problem-Solving, Collaboration, Communication, Leadership
Industry Terms: FMVSS, ISO 26262, ASPICE, Automotive SPICE

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process at ALTEN Technology USA is designed to be comprehensive and thorough, ensuring that candidates have the skills, experience, and cultural fit necessary to succeed in the role.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Brake Performance Tools & Software:

CANalyzer: A diagnostic tool for reading, analyzing, and manipulating CAN bus data
INCA: A tool for measuring and analyzing vehicle dynamics, including braking performance
MDA: A tool for measuring and analyzing brake performance, including brake force, pressure, and temperature
MATLAB/Simulink: A software suite for mathematical modeling, simulation, and code generation

Vehicle Dynamics Tools & Software:

AVL Cruise: A simulation tool for predicting vehicle performance under various driving conditions
CarSim: A simulation tool for modeling and simulating vehicle dynamics, including braking, handling, and stability
Simulink: A block diagram environment for modeling, simulating, and deploying dynamic systems

Data Analysis Tools & Software:

Excel: A spreadsheet software for data organization, analysis, and visualization
Power BI: A business intelligence platform for data visualization, reporting, and analytics
Tableau: A data visualization platform for creating interactive dashboards and reports

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for the Brake Performance Engineer role is designed to support the development, testing, and optimization of brake performance for a wide range of vehicle models and applications.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Automotive Engineering Values:

Safety: Prioritizing the safety of vehicle occupants, pedestrians, and other road users in all aspects of brake performance development and testing
Performance: Pursuing optimal brake performance, balancing braking force, comfort, and stability to meet or exceed vehicle requirements and customer expectations
Innovation: Encouraging creativity, continuous learning, and the adoption of emerging technologies to improve brake performance and vehicle dynamics
Collaboration: Fostering a culture of cross-functional collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and teamwork to optimize overall vehicle performance and dynamics

Collaboration Style:

Cross-Functional Integration: Working closely with experts in other automotive engineering disciplines, such as powertrain, vehicle dynamics, and active safety systems, to ensure that brake performance is optimized in the context of overall vehicle performance and dynamics
Code Review Culture: Encouraging peer review and feedback to ensure the quality, accuracy, and efficiency of brake performance development and testing
Knowledge Sharing: Facilitating the exchange of ideas, expertise, and best practices among brake performance engineers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at ALTEN Technology USA is designed to support the success of its employees, providing them with the tools, resources, and collaborative workspace they need to excel in their roles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Brake Performance Optimization: Developing and implementing brake performance strategies that balance braking force, comfort, and stability, optimizing overall vehicle performance and dynamics
Vehicle Dynamics & Handling: Collaborating with vehicle dynamics experts to ensure that brake performance is optimized in the context of overall vehicle handling, stability, and performance
Active Safety Systems: Integrating brake performance with active safety systems, such as anti-lock braking systems (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
Electric Vehicles: Developing brake performance strategies for electric vehicles, including regenerative braking, energy recovery, and thermal management

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical Training: Participating in company-provided training programs, workshops, and seminars to develop and enhance your brake performance and vehicle dynamics skills
Conferences & Events: Attending industry conferences, trade shows, and other events to stay up-to-date with the latest brake performance trends, technologies, and best practices
Mentorship: Seeking guidance and support from experienced brake performance engineers, managers, and other automotive engineering professionals to advance your career and develop your leadership skills

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges and growth opportunities for the Brake Performance Engineer role are designed to push the boundaries of brake performance and vehicle dynamics, driving innovation and improvement in the automotive industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Brake Performance Fundamentals: Explain the principles of hydraulic braking, including master cylinder, booster, and wheel cylinder operation, and their impact on brake performance and vehicle dynamics
Vehicle Dynamics & Handling: Describe the relationship between brake performance, vehicle dynamics, and handling, and discuss how brake performance strategies can be optimized to improve overall vehicle performance and dynamics
Active Safety Systems: Explain the integration of brake performance with active safety systems, such as ABS, ESC, and AEB, and discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with their development and deployment

Company & Culture Questions:

Company Culture: Describe your understanding of ALTEN Technology USA's company culture, values, and mission, and explain how you would contribute to and support the organization's success
Team Dynamics: Explain your experience working in a collaborative, cross-functional team environment, and discuss how you would contribute to the success of ALTEN Technology USA's brake performance team
Career Growth: Describe your long-term career goals and explain how the Brake Performance Engineer role at ALTEN Technology USA would support your professional development and growth

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Live Demonstration: Present a live demonstration of your brake performance portfolio, including examples of your work with brake performance tools, simulation software, and data analysis tools
Technical Walkthrough: Provide a detailed technical walkthrough of your brake performance projects, explaining your approach to problem-solving, collaboration, and innovation
User Experience: Demonstrate your ability to communicate complex brake performance concepts effectively, tailoring your presentation to the specific needs and priorities of the role

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation process at ALTEN Technology USA is designed to be comprehensive and thorough, ensuring that candidates have the skills, experience, and cultural fit necessary to succeed in the role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Brake Performance Engineer position at ALTEN Technology USA:

Submit Your Application: Click the "Apply" button on the job listing to submit your resume, cover letter, and any other relevant documents.
Prepare Your Portfolio: Tailor your brake performance portfolio to the specific requirements and priorities of the role, highlighting your experience with brake performance tools, simulation software, and data analysis tools.
Optimize Your Resume: Highlight your relevant experience and accomplishments in brake performance and vehicle testing, emphasizing your technical skills and qualifications.
Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with ALTEN Technology USA's company culture, values, and mission, and prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview process.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and automotive engineering industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

Brake Performance Engineer