How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in motorsport or automotive engineering.
Employers may also accept related subjects, like:
- mechanical engineering
- aeronautical engineering
- materials science
- software development
- electrical or electronic engineering
Choosing a course that includes an internship or industry placement can give you an advantage when looking for jobs. It can also help if you want to join a graduate training scheme with a motorsport engineering company, or their suppliers.
You can check if universities are involved in schemes like Formula Student and Greenpower. These provide opportunities to get hands-on experience and to make contacts within the industry.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and a science for a degree
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do an engineering technician apprenticeship, then go on to train on a higher or degree apprenticeship in an engineering subject.
Engineering apprenticeships include:
- Engineering Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Engineering Manufacturing Technician Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
- Electro-Mechanical Engineer Level 6 Apprenticeship (on a level with incorporated engineer status)
- Manufacturing Engineer Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Volunteering
Volunteering at motorsport events is a good way to make contacts in the industry and to get yourself known. Motorsport UK and British Motorsports Marshals Club have lots of ways you can get involved.
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Career tips
A good way to meet employers is to attend motorsport shows. You can speak directly to companies to find out what skills, experience and qualifications they're looking for.
Read motorsport magazines and follow companies on social media for news and job opportunities.
If you want to learn more about being a racing driver, check out the advice from Motorsport UK.
Further information
You can get more information about careers in motorsport from: