RACE MECHANICS
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. Race mechanics must enjoy working in a trackside environment an must be able to work quickly and efficiently under pressure. 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 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. We are happy to offer recommendations on where to study but for a full list of Colleges and Universities offering a motorsport course please refer to the UKAS website.
RACE MECHANIC ROLES
- Assist the logistics team pre/post event. (Loading the trucks, awning/garage build etc)
- Keep the vehicles clean at all times.
- Assist the logistics team in retrieving new parts.
- Assist the the removal of bodywork and basic components.
- Responsible for tyre maintenance and preparation. (Pressures, set numbers, cleanliness)
- Take responsibility for assigned car systems (e.g., suspension, braking, drivetrain, or front/rear assembly).
- Lead car build and strip-down processes between sessions and events.
- Execute setup changes accurately and efficiently as directed by the Race Engineer.
- Oversee routine maintenance, fault diagnosis, and component replacements.
- Supervise and support the Number 3 Mechanic and junior mechanics.
- Assist in pit stop operations and ensure readiness of pit equipment.
- Ensure compliance with championship technical regulations.
- Maintain high standards of safety and quality control.
- Manage parts allocation and preparation for race weekends.
- Contribute to continuous performance improvements.
- Lead the full build, strip, and preparation of the race car.
- Take primary responsibility for critical car systems and overall mechanical performance.
- Implement setup changes precisely as directed by the Race Engineer.
- Oversee and coordinate the work of Number 2 and Number 3 mechanics.
- Ensure car reliability, safety, and compliance with technical regulations.
- Diagnose complex mechanical issues quickly and efficiently.
- Lead pit stop execution and ensure equipment readiness.
- Maintain detailed documentation of car build and component lifing.
- Support test sessions and provide feedback for performance improvements.
- Ensure garage organisation and technical standards are maintained at all times.
- Manage and supervise the mechanical team (No.1, No.2, No.3 mechanics, and junior staff).
- Oversee complete car builds, rebuilds, and race preparation.
- Ensure mechanical reliability and performance throughout test and race weekends.
- Coordinate setup implementation in collaboration with Race Engineers.
- Manage component lifing, parts allocation, and technical inventory.
- Ensure compliance with FIA or championship technical regulations.
- Lead pit stop procedures and garage operations.
- Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical issues efficiently.
- Maintain high safety standards and quality control processes.
- Assist in recruitment, training, and development of mechanics.
RACE MECHANIC SKILLS CHECK
Tick the skills you can currently demonstrate. Leave skills you want to develop unticked and add evidence or an action for each one.
Unticked means “to develop” in your results and CSV. This is a broad self-assessment, not a test or hiring decision. Specialist skills vary by role; you do not need every skill for every mechanic position.
| Skill / example | I have this skill | Evidence / next action |
|---|---|---|
| Fabrication & Welding | ||
| TIG, MIG & Arc WeldingWeld preparation, repair work and making components | To develop | |
| Sheet Metal WorkCut, fold and form sheet materials | To develop | |
| Machining / CNCProduce accurate parts from drawings | To develop | |
| Composites | ||
| Carbon Fibre Layup & RepairPrepare, trim, bond and repair composite parts | To develop | |
| Structural KnowledgeUnderstand core materials and composite construction | To develop | |
| Resin & AdhesivesSelect and handle bonding and curing systems | To develop | |
| Electrical | ||
| Wiring & HarnessesBuild, inspect and repair vehicle wiring | To develop | |
| Data AcquisitionConfigure and troubleshoot logging systems such as AiM or MoTeC | To develop | |
| Sensors & ECUsUnderstand sensor checks and basic ECU diagnostics | To develop | |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine Rebuild & TuningEngine assembly, preparation and reliability | To develop | |
| Gearbox & DifferentialTransmission servicing and setup | To develop | |
| Forced InductionUnderstand and maintain turbo or supercharger systems | To develop | |
| Suspension & Chassis | ||
| Shock Absorbers / DampersDamper servicing and vehicle setup | To develop | |
| Chassis GeometryMeasure and adjust wheel alignment | To develop | |
| Aerodynamic AwarenessUnderstand how aero affects vehicle behaviour | To develop | |
| Workshop Tools & Proficiency | ||
| Precision ToolsUse measuring equipment and torque tools correctly | To develop | |
| Machine ToolsOperate workshop machinery safely | To develop | |
| Inventory & DocumentationTrack components, records and parts movement | To develop | |
| Soft Skills | ||
| Attention to DetailIdentify defects and check completed work | To develop | |
| Problem SolvingDiagnose issues and work methodically under pressure | To develop | |
| Communication & TeamworkShare accurate information and collaborate effectively | To develop | |
| AdaptabilityLearn new systems, procedures and rules | To develop | |
| Emerging / Nice-to-Have | ||
| Additive ManufacturingUse 3D printing for practical applications | To develop | |
| Hybrid / Electric PowertrainUnderstand electric-drive and battery principles | To develop | |
| CAD SkillsCreate or interpret models in engineering CAD software | To develop | |
| Composite TestingUnderstand inspection and non-destructive testing methods | To develop | |
Category breakdown
Skills to develop
Each skill has equal weight. The thresholds are PD guidance: below 50% may benefit from trackside experience; 50% to below 75% may benefit from a 1-2-1. At 75% or more, continue developing the gaps. These suggestions are not a qualification or a guarantee of suitability.