You hear the words motorsport, and most people will think of Formula One, but the term covers a wide range of activities and sporting events. Of course, each of these is fueled by teams of people working together in a variety of jobs to design, engineer and operate the cars and motorbikes. But aside from the camera-facing roles, Formula One and motorsport careers are relatively unknown.
Motorsport recruitment covers all the roles available in the industry, from engineering and production positions to management and marketing. Each position plays its part in the team, creating a well–oiled machine that delivers exciting and dramatic sports.
However, the roles require high levels of knowledge, technical skills and qualifications.
At Arden White, we are specialist recruiters for the motorsport industry. Our team combines real-life engineering experience in the sector and recruitment experts to provide a unique and personalised service that allows us to help you find the ideal role as a candidate.
In this blog, we discuss the types of positions found in Formula One and motorsport that we recruit for.
Engineering Roles in F1 and Motorsport
Quite possibly, the most well-known motorsport careers are the ones in engineering. But “engineering” is not just one role. There are several engineering positions in motorsport, meaning as a candidate, you are likely to find one that fits your experience and knowledge.
Types of engineering roles include:
- Race Engineer – Responsible for optimising car performance and liaising with the drivers.
- Performance Engineer – Analyse data to improve the performance of the car in lap times and car efficiency.
- Aerodynamics Engineer – Develops and designs aerodynamic components for the car.
- Mechanical Engineer – Works on vehicle mechanics such as suspension and power units.
- Design Engineer – Develops CAD models for car components.
As you can imagine, these roles are all hands-on and severely impact the performance of the vehicle, making them high-pressure jobs at times.
Trackside Operations & Technical Roles
Trackside operation roles are the motorsport careers most seen on TV, especially during a Formula One season, where we see the pit stops and car preparations throughout a race.
Again, there are many different roles in this area, from working with the car to analysing data.
- Pit Crew & Mechanics – Handle the rapid tyre changes and vehicle maintenance during races.
- Tyre Technician – Manages tyre performance and strategy for each race.
- Data Analyst – Analyses and enhances car performance through telemetry.
- Trackside Systems Engineer – Watches real-time data and vehicle monitoring to ensure vehicles are working efficiently.
Manufacturing & Production Roles
Away from vehicle and track performance, there are the manufacturing and production roles. These motorsport careers could be argued to be some of the most important roles in the sector as they bring the vehicle to life.
These behind-the-scenes roles include:
- CNC Machinist – Manufacturing precision parts for racing cars.
- Assembly Technician – Building engines, suspension & gearboxes.
- Composite Technician – Works on carbon fibre and other materials for the car.
- Fabrication & Welding Specialists – Builds custom car components.
Those in these roles work closely with engineers to combine their knowledge and ideas and create a vehicle that is competitive and will perform.
Motorsport Management & Support Roles
As with any team, management and support roles are crucial for the success of the team and smooth operations.
These executive searches and support role positions still require knowledge and experience in the industry to perform well in the role.
- Team Manager – Oversees the team operations and logistics.
- Logistics & Operations Coordinator – Manages equipment, travel, and race weekend schedules for everyone on the team.
- Marketing and PR Manager – Handles sponsorship responsibilities, branding and media relations, as well as social media and content production.
Another set of jobs that are behind the scenes, but they are critical to the team functioning so that there is a vehicle to race.
How to Get a Job in F1 & Motorsport
Motorsport careers are highly in demand, as more people are looking for jobs in the sector than there are actual roles.
However, this doesn’t mean getting a job in the sector is impossible.
Key steps to securing a job in F1 and motorsport include getting the relevant qualifications before finding entry-level jobs in the area.
Relevant qualifications include:
Engineering roles require:
- Engineering and technical degrees
Data & performance roles need:
- Computer science
- Maths
- Physics
- Data analytics
Manufacturing & production roles require:
- CNC qualifications
- Composite materials
- Fabrication training
Business and management positions need:
- Motorsport business management
- Sports marketing
- Logistics & supply chain management
But simply having these qualifications often isn’t enough to get into the top teams in the sector; you also need experience. Some of the easiest ways to get experience include:
- Specialised sports programmes during your education
- Entry-level opportunities and pathways, such as internships and apprenticeships
- Karting and grassroots careers
Get Your Motorsport Career With Arden White
There are plenty of motorsport careers within the sector, from technical and hands-on roles to behind-the-scenes roles that keep the team moving forward.
Because of the end goal, each role requires niche and highly technical knowledge and unique skill sets.
One of the easiest ways to either start your career or further advance it in the sector is to use a motorsport recruitment specialist, such as Arden White.
We work closely with many teams and companies within the Formula One and motorsport industry, placing expert candidates in their dream roles.
Our team is made up of ex-engineers and recruitment specialists who bring a unique insight and process to finding your dream job.
Whether you are looking for a permanent or temporary contract, something international or an executive position, we can help. Call us today to learn more about our services on 01202 862777 or complete our online contact form to request a callback from our friendly team.
If you are on the hunt for a new role, take a look at our current vacancies.
