[2] Monaghan gained his master's degree in Mechanical Engineering and then began his motorsport career working at McLaren Racing in 1990 starting out in research and development department before moving to the special projects division.

He eventually advanced to the position of data engineer, working alongside David Coulthard.

[2][3] In 2000, seeking a new challenge, Monaghan joined the Benetton squad, which was in the process of transitioning into the Renault F1 Team.

[4] After Button left the team, Monaghan began working with Renault's exciting new prospect Fernando Alonso, engineering the young Spaniard to his first victory in 2003.

[4][3] After a brief stint at Jordan Grand Prix, Monaghan joined Red Bull Racing at the end of 2005.