A type rating for mechanics is not necessary. Many jurisdictions do require mechanics to obtain ratings for specific aircraft on which they work. Happily, the US has not resorted to this foolishness thus far.
Interesting.
I have an A&P License, but I was not allowed to certify US registered airplanes until I could prove I had attended and passed a type rating course.
One of my colleagues had to go to the states to attend the airline's type course.
Your interpretation of the FAA rules is correct but in practice the airlines still require type ratings (in my experience).
