I don't know if this specific job is the answer, but you definitely sound like you need training. There's a big difference between being reasonably handy, or even an accomplished do-it-yourselfer, and being good enough to work professionally (just for example, I've remodeled/restored two houses pretty much on my own, while my brother has been a carpenter for 20 years. When we hung the doors in my house, he did five in the time it took me to do one).
Check with community colleges and adult education programs in your area. They often have classes that concentrate on specific skills, not necessarily leading to a degree, but giving you the knowledge you need to find a job. Many also have placement programs for graduates, and these days they ALL are set up to help people like you who've been bashed by the economy.

Noobert, on second thought I take it back, based on the attitude displayed here please don't go anywhere near becoming an aircraft mech as I'll most likely be flying in the future.

He'd never make it through the course with that 'tude.

(Wouldn't want him working on my bicycle either.)

ya that guy sucks.

Noobert: Some people don't understand that the idea here is to freely share knowledge. Most of us do this happily. But there are always a few critters who think the idea of these forums is to pick on new people and cause them to feel bad. These are called - in psychology - 'social-sadists.' Seems the new social-paradigm is to do this. Look at Rush Limbaugh.

So don't worry about buffoons in the forums. Just realize that they speak only for themselves and do not reflect the feelings of the majority here. I think learning bike-mechanics, regardless of motivation, is an excellent pathway of study. You'll find it comes in handy for many other things you'll encounter.

I think this thread has run its course.