The top 10% make more than $65,430 a year, while the poorest 10% make less than $22,610. F1 mechanics work for Formula 1 racing teams or automobile manufacturers. They may spend some time at a production plant, but they are more likely to spend the majority of their time in a shop, traveling, or maintaining vehicles on the track. Most mechanics have at least an associate's degree in science technology, engineering, or manufacturing. The median salary is $64,710. The best way to get into the sport is through an employment agency. Inexperienced people can start at $20-30,000 a year, but those with experience can earn up to $120,000. In addition to working on cars on the track, F1 mechanics need to maintain vehicles in the garage. They also work very long hours, usually starting around 7am and sometimes not finishing until late at night when there is no practice or race. The most demanding part of the job is probably fixing on the track because it requires intense physical activity. Mechanics must be able-bodied and able to lift weights that average 70 pounds unaided. People think drivers are rich because they drive fast cars but actually they are usually not making any money. A driver might make $200,000 per year but most of that goes towards paying taxes and only about $80,000 remains after costs such as rent and food. The average salary is based on estimates from 57 different countries.