OTHER TECHNICAL ROLES
In motorsport, there are numerous hands-on roles beyond being a race mechanic. These positions vary across multiple engineering principles but require unique and niche skill set. All of which are key to the success of a professional motorsport team. The roles can vary from fabrication and welding though to electrical harness construction and model making.
WHERE & WHAT TO STUDY
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 offering a motorsport course please refer to the UKAS website.
JOB DESCRIPTIONS
ENGINE BUILDER
- Assemble race engines from scratch, following detailed CAD drawings and specifications.
- Ensure all engine components are balanced and functioning correctly for optimal performance.
- Fine tune engines to maximise horsepower, torque, and fuel efficiency while ensuring reliability.
- Utilise engine dynos to measure performance and make necessary adjustments.
- Perform failure analysis and root cause investigation when an engine malfunctions or underperforms.
- Ensure all engine parts and assemblies meet strict quality standards.
- Maintain detailed logs of engine builds, settings, and performance data.
- Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills, capable of diagnosing complex engine issues.
GEARBOX TECHNICIAN
- Assemble, disassemble, and rebuild gearbox systems to exacting specifications.
- Perform routine maintenance, repairs, and upgrades to gearbox components.
- Inspect gearbox components for wear, damage, or defects using precision tools.
- Conduct performance tests to ensure reliability and efficiency under racing conditions.
- Diagnose and resolve mechanical issues within the gearbox system.
- Collaborate with engineers and mechanics to identify root causes of failures and implement solutions.
- Maintain accurate records of all maintenance, repairs, and component changes.
- Provide detailed reports on gearbox performance and any issues encountered.
- Travel to races and testing sessions to provide on-site gearbox support.
- Perform quick, high-pressure repairs or adjustments as needed during events.
DAMPER TECHNICIAN
- Assemble, disassemble, and rebuild damper systems to precise specifications.
- Conduct routine maintenance, repairs, and upgrades to suspension components.
- Fine-tune damper settings based on performance data.
- Work with engineers to test and implement adjustments that improve handling and stability.
- Inspect dampers and related components for wear, damage, or irregularities.
- Use specialized tools and equipment to test damper performance under various conditions
- Analyse telemetry and suspension data to evaluate damper performance.
- Provide actionable insights and recommendations to enhance car dynamics.
- Maintain detailed records of all damper builds, tests, and performance metrics.
- Produce technical reports to share findings with the engineering team.
SUB-ASSEMBLY TECHNICIAN
- Assemble sub-components such as brake systems, suspension units, fuel systems, and cooling assemblies to precise specifications.
- Follow detailed technical drawings and instructions to ensure accuracy and consistency.
- Perform routine maintenance, inspections, and repairs on sub-assemblies to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
- Diagnose and resolve mechanical issues with sub-components.
- Inspect and test completed sub-assemblies to ensure they meet safety, performance, and quality standards.
- Identify and address any defects or inconsistencies.
- Provide support during race weekends and testing, ensuring sub-assemblies are ready for installation.
- Respond to and resolve any on-site issues with sub-assemblies quickly and effectively.
- Maintain an organised inventory of parts and tools needed for sub-assembly work.
- Coordinate with the procurement team to ensure necessary components are in stock.
FABRICATOR/WELDER
- Produce technical reports to share findings with the engineering team.
- Ability to perform welding processes such as MIG and TIG.
- Ability to weld components in flat, overhead, or vertical positions.
- Must be able to operate hand tools and equipment such as Grinders, Drills, Bansaws, Lathes, Mills etc.
- Responsible up the maintenance and repair of all tooling/equipment.
- Understanding of CNC processes and automation machining.
- Read CAD drawings to identify welding measurements and position.
- Determining the causes of operating errors and deciding the action to take.
COMPOSITES TECHNICIAN
- Trim composite materials according to specifications and work instructions.
- Utilise various hand tools, power tools, and equipment to achieve precise cuts and finishes.
- Inspect trimmed parts to ensure compliance with quality standards and specifications.
- Collaborate with other team members to optimise production processes and efficiencies.
- Maintain a clean and organised work area, adhering to safety protocols and guidelines.
- Productive involvement in the manufacturing of fibre composite parts.
- Carrying out work according to design plans and quality specifications.
- Assembling components, bonding the parts and preparing them for use on the race track.
ELECTRICAL TECHNICIAN
- A comprehensive understanding and knowledge of mechanical and electrical technical drawings
and the appropriate procedures. - Understanding of point to point wire testing.
- Understanding of vehicle electrical components like ECU’s and motorsport specific sensors.
- Understanding of both HV and LV electrical systems.
- Understanding of Vehicle CAN Bus systems.
- Familiar with System 25, autosport MIL spec connectors and fine gauge wiring.
- Can work under pressure meeting tight deadlines without compromising quality.
WIND TUNNEL TECHNICIAN
- Operation of the wind tunnel for Aerodynamic and Engineering tests.
- Wind tunnel model installation and pre-session runs and checks.
- Assist with maintenance and improvement of the wind tunnel and its related systems.
- Filling in check sheets and logbook for each run.
- Checking and validating data from the wind tunnel for each run.
- Identifying any potential or actual problems with the wind tunnel and its related systems.
- Assist with part changes on the wind tunnel model.
- Assist with the creation of ride maps for the wind tunnels.
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