In 1901, Henry Ford designed and built the race car called “Sweepstakes.” On October 10th of that year, he drove Sweepstakes against Alexander Winton, a famous racer and builder. Against all odds Ford won. That was the beginning – “the race that changed the world” – and it continues to this day. From our victories at Le Mans in 1966 and exactly fifty years later in 2016, to multiple World Championships, the spirit of Henry Ford lives with us every day through our motorsport efforts around the world.
About the Role
The Trackside IT Engineer plays a critical role in ensuring the seamless operation of all technical systems that underpin the team’s success. Operating at the intersection of IT and motorsport engineering, this role ensures that information flows securely, reliably, and in real time across the team, both trackside and at base.
Our ideal candidate will combine deep technical expertise with composure under pressure and being able to work collaboratively, to resolve issues rapidly and maintain faultless data connectivity. In a world where milliseconds matter, they’ll be responsible for the systems that keep our team connected and performing at its best!
Key Responsibilities
The Trackside IT Engineer is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and optimising all data, communication, and IT systems that support live racing operations. From ensuring uninterrupted telemetry and radio links, to managing secure data transfer between car, garage, and base, this role is essential to keeping the whole team connected.
Systems Management & Support:
* Maintain, monitor, and troubleshoot all trackside IT systems, including telemetry, timing, radio, and data acquisition infrastructure.
* Manage secure and stable network connectivity between car, garage, and factory systems.
* Support software and hardware configurations for engineering tools, data servers, and analysis systems.
* Ensure all systems are prepared, tested, and fully operational before every session or event.
* Respond rapidly to issues during live sessions, diagnosing faults and restoring functionality with minimal disruption.
Data Integrity & Security:
* Oversee the collection, transfer, and backup of all race and test data, ensuring data integrity, accuracy, and security always.
* Implement and maintain data management protocols in line with team and partner requirements.
* Coordinate secure data transfer between trackside systems and the factory in real time.
* Ensure compliance with IT security standards, safeguarding sensitive technical and performance information.
Trackside Operations:
* Provide technical support to engineering and performance teams during race and test events.
* Ensure all data feeds and systems (telemetry, radio, timing, etc.) are active, synchronised, and delivering accurate information.
* Collaborate with the Race Engineer and Performance Engineer to maintain reliable telemetry channels and analysis platforms.
* Manage IT infrastructure setup, including cabling, servers, antennas, and workstations, at each event.
* Troubleshoot any issues affecting live communications or data flow between car, pit wall, and garage.
Continuous Improvement:
* Evaluate and upgrade IT systems and processes to improve speed, reliability, and resilience.
* Introduce new technologies and automation where beneficial to team operations.
* Collaborate with software developers and IT specialists at base to align systems and support remote monitoring.
* Capture post-event feedback and system performance metrics to drive ongoing improvements.
Health, Safety & Compliance:
* Ensure all IT and data activities comply with FIA regulations, internal standards, and data protection laws.
* Champion a culture of precision, professionalism, and security across all systems and processes.
* Maintain documentation of configurations, procedures, and incident reports for transparency and traceability.
Qualifications, Skills & Personal Attributes
Essential:
* Proven experience as a Trackside IT Engineer, Systems/ Network Engineer, or similar role within a motorsport or high‑performance engineering environment.
* Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Network Engineering, or Information Systems.
* Strong technical knowledge of networking, telemetry, radio systems, and data acquisition hardware/software.
* Hands‑on experience with system setup, diagnostics, and fault resolution under pressure.
* Excellent communication and teamwork skills across technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
* Willingness to travel extensively for international races, tests, and events.
Desirable:
* Experience working in endurance racing or multi‑car programs.
* Familiarity with FIA data and communication standards.
* Knowledge of cloud‑based data systems, remote monitoring, and cybersecurity practices.
* Experience supporting embedded or control systems used in race environments.
Personal Attributes
* Calm and composed under pressure, with strong problem‑solving instincts.
* Highly organised, methodical, and meticulous when it comes to detail.
* Strong communicator and collaborator who builds trust across the team.
* Proactive, solution‑focused, and eager to learn new technologies.
* Passionate about motorsport and driven to achieve excellence.
Why join us?
We are at a pivotal moment in our journey, taking on one of the most prestigious and challenging projects in global motorsport. This is your opportunity to play a key role in delivering success on the world stage.
As part of our team, you’ll help shape the future of endurance racing, working with world‑class people and cutting‑edge technology.
Benefits include:
* Competitive salary and performance‑based bonus structure
* Travel opportunities to international testing and race events
* Competitive Private Healthcare and Dental package
* Company Pension Scheme
* Working in a people first culture built on respect, collaboration, and excellence
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