Here in the New York Metro, the mechanics tend to be hispanic or Mexican. They are hired at minimum wage or less but the tend to do OK and some are better than others. Because of the high rents, Mexican labor is used even extensively at expensive resturants.

The best mechanics tend to have more than 20 years experience working on bikes. To get this type of experience, you'll have to find some old timer who's been in the business since the early 80's or 70's.