RACE MECHANICS

What Is A Race Mechanic?

The primary role of a race mechanic is to ensure that racing vehicles are in top condition for competition. Race mechanics are responsible for performing regular maintenance and making repairs to vehicles, including engines, transmissions, suspension systems, and brakes. They also work to improve the performance of vehicles by making modifications, such as changing gear ratios or adding aerodynamic components. In addition to technical skills, race mechanics must be able to work quickly and efficiently under pressure, and they must have the ability to diagnose and solve problems on the spot. Communication skills are also important, as they must be able to collaborate with other members of the racing team and provide updates on the status of vehicles.

Qualification requirements?

Qualification wise you will need at least a level 2 or 3 in a motor vehicle maintenance or motorsport engineering. For senior roles you may require a HNC or HND in motorsport Engineering.

What Mechanic roles are available?

Below we will discuss what qualifications you require, what is involved with each job role and what personality traits you require to succeed in that specific role. Please be aware this is a generalisation and the specific roles may vary slightly depending on the individual team and the race series in question.

Floating/#3 Mechanic:

  • Assist with logistics (Loading the trucks, awning/garage build etc)
  • Keep the vehicles clean at all times.
  • Set the tyre pressure, to be determined by the race engineer.
  • Assist the logistics team in retrieving new parts.
  • Assist the the removal of bodywork 
  • Responsible for tyre maintenance (Pressures, set numbers, cleanliness)

#2 Mechanic:

  • All roles mentioned previously as a #3 mechanic.
  • Good understanding of all vehicle systems.
  • Basic fabrication and machining skills.
  • Comfortable working in a trackside environment and car build back at the workshop.
  • Demonstrate IT skills. (Excel preferable)
  • The ability to read and interpret CAD drawings. (Team dependent)

#1 Mechanic:

  • All roles mentioned previously as a #2 mechanic.
  • Responsible of building, maintaining and servicing their own car whilst working to various build procedures and build manuals. 
  • Report any issues to the team Chief Mechanic whilst also delegating tasks to the #2 Mechanic.
  • Working to tight timelines while at events and tests.
  • Work with the Logistics Coordinator to Keep a record of all car part life numbers for each event.
  • Attend/support the team at various events and tests.
  • Staying on top of pit equipment tooling maintenance. Reporting faults to the Chief Mechanic.
  • Maintain a clean and tidy working environment.

Chief Mechanic:

  • Promote teamwork and effective communications to develop relationships between all personnel.
  • Ensure the cars are built and maintained to the highest standard.
  • Create workshop and trackside procedures and risk assessments.
  • Work to tight deadlines and methodically plan car builds.
  • Create and rehearse pitstop structures with the team.
  • Report reliability issues, document and seek solutions with engineering teams.
  • Follow and record the mileage of car parts and tyres. 
  • Assist with freight, travel planning and manage trackside activities.
  • Assist in the operation of the garage, its infrastructure and ensure it is maintained to the highest standard.
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