OverviewWho we're looking for:TRD is seeking an experienced Senior Engineer to join our Tire Group. This role owns the technical direction of tire model development - from test methodology through model fitting, tooling, and customer-facing support to racing teams.
What you'll be doing:- Lead technical direction for tire model development, fitting methodology, and model review.
- Develop advanced tooling for model fitting, and fit-quality evaluation.
- Drive testing methodology improvements for flat-trac and track testing, proposing new test matrices, instrumentation, and data capture standards; includes travel to tests.
- Analyze machine and track test results to produce and tune tire model fits.
- Evaluate and integrate new tire model formulations (thermal, transient, wear-coupled) into the existing modeling stack, balancing physical fidelity against computational cost.
- Own technical relationships with racing teams on tire data fits - translating ambiguous or conflicting track feedback into model refinements and communicating model confidence directly.
- Mentor engineers in modeling theory, fitting techniques, and testing methodology; serve as technical escalation point within the rotating-responsibility group.
- Represent the tire modeling group in cross-functional integration work with the simulation team and race teams.
What you will bring:- BS in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
- 5+ years of experience in racing tire modeling and testing, with demonstrated ownership of model development from raw test data to production fits.
- Deep knowledge of vehicle dynamics and tire behavior in racing applications, including tire mechanical design and operating modes.
- Advanced proficiency with Pacejka "Magic Formula" tire models and their evolution.
- Strong mathematical/statistical background for fitting and uncertainty quantification of physical model parameters.
- Proven track record building internal tools or software for tire data analysis and model fitting.
- Proficiency with Python, MATLAB, or similar, and intermediate C.
- Proficiency with data analysis packages (MoTeC, etc.).
- Experience mentoring engineers or leading technical workstreams.
Bonus if you have:- Strong experience in mathematical modeling of complex physical phenomena.
- Familiarity with test methodologies used at tire testing centers.
Travel requirements: - Up to 15% domestic travel.
What we'll bring:During the interview process, our team will walk you through our industry-leading benefits and career development opportunities, including:
- A work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.
- Professional growth programs and tuition reimbursement.
- Vehicle purchase and lease programs.
- Comprehensive health care and wellness plans for your family.
- Flexible work options based on business needs.
- Toyota 401(k) Savings Plan with company match plus an annual contribution regardless of employee participation.
- Paid holidays and PTO.
- Referral services for prenatal care, adoption, childcare, and schools.
- Tax-advantaged accounts (HSA, Health Care FSA, Dependent Care FSA).
- Relocation assistance (if applicable).
