Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for an Engine Builder

🎯 Role Definition

This role requires a highly skilled and detail-oriented Engine Builder to join our dynamic team. In this pivotal role, you will be the artisan behind our power plants, responsible for the complete lifecycle of engine assembly, from initial component inspection to final dynamometer testing and tuning. You will work with precision and expertise to construct engines that meet and exceed stringent performance, quality, and reliability specifications. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver with a deep passion for mechanical excellence and a proven track record in a high-performance or production engine environment. This position is the bedrock of our product's performance, and your craftsmanship will directly translate into on-track success or customer satisfaction.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Automotive Technician / Master Technician
Automotive Machinist
Performance Shop Mechanic / Technician

Advancement To:

Master Engine Builder / Lead Engine Builder
Dyno Tuning Specialist / Calibration Engineer
Shop Foreman / Production Supervisor
Race Team Chief Mechanic / Car Chief

Lateral Moves:

Powertrain Quality Control Inspector
Technical Support Specialist (Engine & Powertrain)
R&D Technician (Engine Development)

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Perform complete, ground-up assembly of high-performance and production engines according to detailed blueprints, build sheets, and technical specifications.
Meticulously clean, inspect, and measure all engine components, including blocks, crankshafts, connecting rods, pistons, and cylinder heads, using precision tools to ensure they meet required tolerances.
Document every critical stage of the build process, including all measurements, clearances, torque specifications, and component serial numbers, in a comprehensive build book.
Accurately balance rotating assemblies to exacting standards to ensure smooth operation and longevity at high RPMs.
Execute precise short-block assembly, including fitting piston rings, installing bearings, and checking all clearances (main, rod, and thrust).
Conduct degreeing of camshafts and verify complete valvetrain geometry, including piston-to-valve clearance, spring pressures, and lifter preload.
Assemble and install long-block components, including cylinder heads, intake manifolds, and complete valvetrain systems, ensuring proper sealing and fastener torque.
Perform final engine dressing, which includes the installation of front-end accessory drives, oiling systems, ignition components, and fuel delivery systems.
Set up, install, and operate engines on an engine dynamometer (dyno) to perform critical break-in procedures, power pulls, and initial tuning.
Analyze data logs from dyno sessions to diagnose and resolve performance issues, making necessary adjustments to timing, fuel, and other parameters.
Conduct thorough teardown and post-dyno inspections to evaluate component wear and validate the integrity of the engine assembly.
Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical engine failures, performing detailed failure analysis to determine the root cause and recommend corrective actions.
Maintain an organized, clean, and safe workspace, including the proper care and calibration of all tools and measurement equipment.
Collaborate with the machining department to specify necessary block preparation, honing, decking, and other machine work required for a build.
Manage inventory for individual engine builds, ensuring all required parts and components are available and correct for the specific project.
Stay current with the latest engine technology, building techniques, and new components from aftermarket and OEM suppliers.
Provide clear and concise feedback to engineers and designers on component fitment, performance, and potential design improvements.
Execute cylinder head preparation, including valve jobs, porting/polishing, and flow bench testing as required by the build specification.
Read and interpret complex technical drawings, schematics, and service manuals to ensure 100% build accuracy.
Prepare and package completed engines for shipment, ensuring they are secure and protected from damage during transit.
Adhere to all company safety protocols and quality control standards without exception, championing a "quality-first" mindset within the team.

Secondary Functions

Support ad-hoc requests for engine diagnostics, failure analysis, and on-site technical support.
Contribute to the continuous improvement of build processes, documentation, and quality control checklists.
Collaborate with the sales and support teams to translate customer needs into technical build requirements.
Participate in sprint planning, daily stand-ups, and team meetings to review build schedules and address production challenges.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Precision Measuring: Mastery of precision measuring instruments, including micrometers, bore gauges, dial indicators, and calipers.
Engine Dynamometer Operation: Proficient in setting up, running, and collecting data from various types of engine dynamometers (e.g., Superflow, Land & Sea).
Engine Blueprinting: Deep understanding of all aspects of blueprinting, including checking clearances, balancing rotating assemblies, and degreeing camshafts.
Component Failure Analysis: Ability to accurately diagnose engine failures by examining component wear patterns and damage.
Technical Schematics: Advanced ability to read, interpret, and follow complex engine blueprints, build sheets, and assembly diagrams.
Valvetrain Geometry: Expertise in setting up complex valvetrain systems, including checking piston-to-valve clearance, pushrod length, and rocker geometry.
Fuel & Ignition Systems: Strong working knowledge of modern and classic fuel and ignition systems and their impact on engine performance.
Data Acquisition Analysis: Skill in interpreting dyno data, sensor readings, and logs to optimize engine tuning and diagnose issues.
Basic Machining: Familiarity with basic machine shop equipment and processes (e.g., cylinder honing, valve grinding, surface milling).
Tuning Software: Basic proficiency with engine control unit (ECU) tuning software for making adjustments during dyno testing.
Torque Strategy: Comprehensive knowledge of fastener types, torque-to-yield bolts, and proper torqueing sequences.

Soft Skills

Meticulous Attention to Detail: An unwavering focus on precision and accuracy, treating every measurement and step as critical.
Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking: The ability to logically diagnose complex mechanical issues and devise effective solutions.
Time Management & Organization: Skilled at managing multiple tasks and build projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
Clear Communication: Ability to clearly document work and communicate technical details to team members and management.
Teamwork & Collaboration: A positive, team-first attitude with a willingness to share knowledge and assist others.
Patience & Persistence: The tenacity to work through challenging builds and complex diagnostic puzzles without cutting corners.
Adaptability: Openness to learning new techniques, working on different engine platforms, and adapting to evolving technologies.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent (GED).

Preferred Education:

Certificate or Associate's Degree from a reputable automotive technology or high-performance engine building program (e.g., SAMTech, UTI, NTI).
ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certifications, particularly in Engine Performance (A8) and Engine Machining (M1-M3).

Relevant Fields of Study:

Automotive Technology
High-Performance Powertrain
Motorsports Technology
Mechanical Engineering Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-10+ years of hands-on, professional experience in a role focused on engine assembly, rebuilding, or machining.

Preferred:

Verifiable experience building specific high-performance engine platforms (e.g., LS-series, Coyote, HEMI, Subaru EJ, Porsche flat-six).
Previous experience working in a professional motorsports environment (NASCAR, IndyCar, IMSA, NHRA) or a high-volume custom engine production facility.
A portfolio of past engine builds or a personal project that demonstrates a high level of craftsmanship and technical ability.