Vehicle Dynamics Performance Engineer at General Motors

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Vehicle Dynamics Performance Engineer
Company: General Motors
Location: Milford, Michigan, United States
Job Type: Hybrid (3 days on-site per week)
Category: Vehicle Engineering
Date Posted: June 27, 2025
Experience Level: Mid-Senior level (5-10 years)
Remote Status: On-site with hybrid flexibility

🚀 Role Summary

Shape the driving character of GM vehicles by tuning suspension, steering, tires, and chassis systems
Lead both virtual and physical development efforts, collaborating across engineering teams
Deliver balanced, high-performance vehicles that meet vehicle character goals
Define performance targets, guide suspension tuning, and conduct subjective evaluations
Stay current on industry trends and competitive benchmarks

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong foundation in vehicle dynamics, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

Vehicle Dynamics Tuning: Define performance targets and guide suspension, steering, and tire tuning to meet vehicle character goals
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Lead vehicle dynamics integration meetings and collaborate with cross-functional teams (chassis controls, NVH, energy, etc.)
Virtual Development: Drive virtual development efforts, coordinate XiL model availability, participate in Driver-in-the-Loop evaluations, and analyze test data
Tire and Damper Development: Lead tire and damper development, evaluate submissions, conduct wet/snow testing, and select final specifications
Steering System Tuning: Guide steering system tuning with suppliers to meet technical specs
Validation Planning: Develop and execute validation plans, document results, and support production launch
Subjective Evaluations: Conduct subjective evaluations across various road conditions and present performance to leadership and media
Cost Reduction and Product Improvements: Support cost reduction, product improvements, and plant builds
Industry Trend Analysis: Stay current on industry trends and competitive benchmarks

📝 Enhancement Note: This role involves a mix of technical and leadership responsibilities, requiring strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make informed decisions under uncertainty.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Physics, or a related engineering degree (Master's degree preferred)

Experience: 5 years of engineering experience in a related field, with 2 years of Vehicle Dynamics development experience demonstrating foundational vehicle dynamics understanding (3+ years preferred)

Required Skills:

Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to legally operate a motor vehicle and successfully complete a Motor Vehicle Report review
Ability to travel up to 25% of the time, including winter test trips to Yuma, AZ or Northern Michigan

Preferred Skills:

Master's degree
3+ years in vehicle dynamics development
Experience with ABS, traction/stability systems, and virtual tools (CarSim, Matlab, Adams, Simpack)
Basic control systems knowledge
Strong initiative, leadership, and problem-solving skills

📝 Enhancement Note: While a Master's degree is not required, it may provide a competitive edge for candidates seeking to advance their careers in vehicle dynamics engineering.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements (N/A - Not Applicable for this Role)

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $85,000 - $120,000 per year (Estimated, based on industry standards for a mid-senior level Vehicle Dynamics Engineer in the United States)

Benefits:

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
Retirement savings plans with company matching contributions
Paid time off and holidays
Employee discounts on GM vehicles and services
Tuition assistance and professional development opportunities

Working Hours: Full-time, typically 40 hours per week, with flexible working hours and the option to work remotely for some tasks

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary range is estimated based on industry standards for a mid-senior level Vehicle Dynamics Engineer in the United States. Actual salary may vary depending on factors such as experience, skills, and market conditions.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Automotive manufacturing and technology

Company Size: Large (Approximately 155,000 employees worldwide)

Founded: 1908

Team Structure:

Vehicle Dynamics team, reporting to the Vehicle Dynamics Manager
Cross-functional collaboration with Chassis Controls, NVH, Energy, and other engineering teams
Potential for leadership and mentoring opportunities as the team grows and evolves

Development Methodology:

Agile development processes, with regular sprint planning and team meetings
Cross-functional collaboration and integration with other engineering teams
Emphasis on continuous improvement and innovation

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

📝 Enhancement Note: General Motors is a large, global company with a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. The Vehicle Dynamics team plays a critical role in delivering high-quality, safe, and enjoyable driving experiences for GM customers.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Vehicle Dynamics Performance Engineer Career Level: Mid-Senior level, responsible for leading vehicle dynamics development efforts and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver balanced, high-performance vehicles

Reporting Structure: Reports to the Vehicle Dynamics Manager, with potential for mentoring and leadership opportunities as the team grows

Technical Impact: Directly impacts the driving character and performance of GM vehicles, working closely with other engineering teams to ensure vehicle dynamics meet or exceed target goals

Growth Opportunities:

Advancement to senior or principal engineer roles within the Vehicle Dynamics team
Transition to other engineering roles, such as Chassis Controls or Energy, with expanded responsibilities and leadership opportunities
Development of expertise in specific vehicle dynamics areas, such as suspension tuning or active safety systems

📝 Enhancement Note: Career growth opportunities within General Motors are abundant, with a strong emphasis on internal promotions and development programs to support employee growth and success.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site with hybrid flexibility (3 days on-site per week)

Office Location(s): Milford Proving Ground - Bldg 104A, Milford, Michigan, United States

Workspace Context:

Collaborative workspace with dedicated engineering workstations and access to specialized testing and development equipment
Opportunities for cross-functional collaboration with other engineering teams, design, and marketing departments
Access to on-site testing facilities, including proving grounds and dynamic testing labs

Work Schedule: Full-time, typically 40 hours per week, with flexible working hours and the option to work remotely for some tasks

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment at General Motors is collaborative, innovative, and focused on delivering high-quality products that meet or exceed customer expectations. The Vehicle Dynamics team works closely with other engineering teams to ensure vehicle dynamics meet or exceed target goals.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Phone or video screen to assess communication skills and basic qualifications
Technical interview to discuss vehicle dynamics concepts, virtual development tools, and problem-solving skills
On-site or virtual tour of the Milford Proving Ground and testing facilities
Final interview with the Vehicle Dynamics Manager and other team members to assess cultural fit and team dynamics

Portfolio Review Tips: (N/A - Not Applicable for this Role)

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on vehicle dynamics concepts, including suspension, steering, and tire tuning
Familiarize yourself with virtual development tools, such as CarSim, Matlab, Adams, and Simpack
Prepare for problem-solving questions and be ready to discuss your approach to vehicle dynamics development

ATS Keywords: (N/A - Not Applicable for this Role)

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for the Vehicle Dynamics Performance Engineer role is designed to assess both technical skills and cultural fit within the team. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with vehicle dynamics concepts, virtual development tools, and problem-solving skills.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure (N/A - Not Applicable for this Role)

👥 Team Culture & Values

Vehicle Dynamics Team Values:

Collaboration and cross-functional integration
Continuous learning and innovation
Data-driven decision-making and analysis
High-quality, safe, and enjoyable driving experiences
Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Collaboration Style:

Cross-functional collaboration with other engineering teams, design, and marketing departments
Regular team meetings and sprint planning sessions
Opportunities for mentoring and knowledge sharing within the Vehicle Dynamics team

📝 Enhancement Note: The Vehicle Dynamics team at General Motors values collaboration, innovation, and data-driven decision-making. Candidates should be prepared to work closely with other engineering teams to ensure vehicle dynamics meet or exceed target goals.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Developing vehicle dynamics systems that meet or exceed target goals in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape
Collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure vehicle dynamics meet or exceed target goals while balancing other vehicle attributes, such as NVH and energy efficiency
Staying current on industry trends and competitive benchmarks, and incorporating new technologies into vehicle dynamics systems

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Attending industry conferences and events to stay current on vehicle dynamics trends and best practices
Participating in professional development opportunities, such as training courses or workshops, to enhance technical skills and leadership abilities
Collaborating with other engineering teams to gain exposure to different aspects of vehicle development and gain a broader understanding of the automotive industry

📝 Enhancement Note: The Vehicle Dynamics Performance Engineer role presents both technical challenges and learning opportunities for candidates seeking to advance their careers in vehicle dynamics engineering. Candidates should be prepared to stay current on industry trends and competitive benchmarks, and to collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure vehicle dynamics meet or exceed target goals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Can you describe your experience with vehicle dynamics concepts, such as suspension, steering, and tire tuning?
How have you used virtual development tools, such as CarSim, Matlab, Adams, and Simpack, in your previous roles?
Can you walk us through your approach to vehicle dynamics development, from defining performance targets to conducting subjective evaluations?
How have you collaborated with cross-functional teams in your previous roles, and what was the outcome of those collaborations?

Company & Culture Questions:

What attracts you to the Vehicle Dynamics team at General Motors?
How do you stay current on industry trends and competitive benchmarks in the vehicle dynamics space?
How do you approach continuous learning and professional development in your current role, and what steps have you taken to enhance your skills and knowledge?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy: (N/A - Not Applicable for this Role)

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for the Vehicle Dynamics Performance Engineer role is designed to assess both technical skills and cultural fit within the team. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with vehicle dynamics concepts, virtual development tools, and problem-solving skills, as well as their approach to continuous learning and professional development.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Vehicle Dynamics Performance Engineer position:

Submit your application through the application link provided
Customize your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills in vehicle dynamics engineering
Prepare for the phone or video screen by reviewing vehicle dynamics concepts and virtual development tools
Research General Motors and the Vehicle Dynamics team to demonstrate your interest and understanding of the role and company culture
Practice problem-solving questions and be ready to discuss your approach to vehicle dynamics development

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

Vehicle Dynamics Performance Engineer