SRT / Direct Connection - Performance Chassis Engineer

The SRT / Direct Connection Performance Chassis Engineer is responsible for the design, development, validation, and release of high-performance chassis systems for SRT/Direct Connection production vehicles, Direct Connection performance parts, and motorsports applications. This role focuses on delivering world-class handling, durability, and vehicle dynamics that meet aggressive performance targets while supporting the brand's high-performance DNA.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead design, integration, and development of wheels, suspension, steering, subframes, bushings, kinematics, and compliance components for SRT and Direct Connection programs.
• Develop and refine chassis tuning parameters to achieve targets for handling, ride, NVH, and track performance.
• Support creation, validation and release of Direct Connection performance kits (Stage upgrades, suspension packages, drag/track solutions)

Vehicle Dynamics & Testing:

• Conduct objective and subjective vehicle dynamics testing (ride/handling, limit handling, drag launch, track endurance).
• Analyze test data (Kinematics & Compliance, telemetry, damper histograms, accelerometer data) and convert insights into actionable engineering changes.
• Support SRT/Direct Connection proving grounds testing, track events, and competitive benchmarking activities

Crash & Safety:

• Ensure compliance with regulatory testing & regulation for street product and Rules & Regulations specific to motorsports applications
• Simulation & Analysis
• Perform CAE studies, including FEA, multi-body dynamics, suspension optimization, and load case development.
• Work closely with CAE teams to ensure design robustness under high-performance load conditions

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Interface with Powertrain, Aero, Brakes, Body/Closures, Electronics, and Manufacturing teams to ensure full-vehicle integration.
• Support supplier design reviews, DFMEAs, DVP&R creation, and component release activities.
• Participate in SRT/Direct Connection development reviews, vehicle build support, and issue resolution meetings.
• Function as SME for licensed, affiliated, and 3rd party projects

Direct Connection Performance Parts Support:

• Engineer and validate aftermarket performance suspension components.
• Create technical specifications, install instructions, validation plans, and product release documentation.
• Support dealer training, tech-line escalation, and customer queries regarding chassis performance offerings

Program & Documentation Responsibilities:

• Develop test plans, DVP&Rs, and build work orders for mule and pre-production vehicles
• Own design releases (EBOM, CAD reviews, engineering change documentation)
• Ensure program deliverables meet timing, cost, performance, and quality targets

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering or related degree field
• 3 or more years of experience in chassis, vehicle dynamics, or performance engineering
• Proficiency with CAD (CATIA or NX), MBD tools, and CAE fundamentals
• Experience with vehicle testing, data acquisition systems, and performance tuning
• Strong understanding of suspension geometry, kinematics, materials, and durability
• Ability to support track testing, including occasional travel and weekend events

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Engineering
• Prior experience with performance or Motorsports vehicle development (drag, road course, autocross, endurance)
• Hands-on knowledge of high-performance chassis tuning (spring/damper tuning, alignment, bushings)
• Familiarity with Direct Connection, SRT platforms, or competitive benchmarking
• Experience with DRE responsibilities, release systems, and supplier management
• Familiarity with Mopar Engineering, Quality and Program Management processes