Light Commercial Vehicle Technician Apprenticeship – Northgate Vehicle Hire Plymouth

Light Commercial Vehicle Technician Apprenticeship – Northgate Vehicle Hire

Position Overview:

The role of a Light Commercial Vehicle Service Technician is to maintain, service, and repair vehicles to a consistently high standard. In this role, you will typically work with Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV, or Van) with a gross weight of no more than 3.5 metric tonnes.

If successful in your application, you will be employed by Northgate Vehicle Hire, the UK’s largest commercial vehicle rental provider. Northgate are part of the Redde Northgate Group and have 57 sites across the UK, 52 of which have Workshops and we have collaborated to deliver an apprenticeship programme that ensures learners develop essential skills, experience, and brand knowledge.

This exciting programme is ideal for someone who is looking to begin their journey to becoming a qualified Service Technician and who wants to develop a long-term career in an exciting and forward-thinking business and industry. Experience is desirable, but not essential as we’ll teach you everything that you need to know.

The Role:

The apprenticeship is geared toward training the next generation of Light Commercial Vehicle Service Technicians. But what does the role involve?

The role varies slightly by the employer, based upon the specific needs within the location. The below explanation is therefore a guide to support you in understanding what the role might entail.

Technicians service and repair light vehicles (e.g., Vans) up to 3.5 tonnes. Technicians are trained in all areas of vehicle mechanics and electronics, from engine and exhaust systems to air conditioning and security features. 

Key Responsibilities:

Training and Learning:

• Actively participate in on-the-job and classroom training.
• Develop skills in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining light commercial vehicles.
• Attend all training sessions and complete coursework and assessments.

Vehicle Maintenance and Repair:

• Assist with routine tasks like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections.
• Learn to perform complex diagnostics and repairs under supervision.
• Use diagnostic tools to identify and solve vehicle problems.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Keep accurate records of services, parts used, and time spent on each job.
• Prepare detailed reports on diagnostic findings and repairs.
• Ensure all documentation meets company and industry standards.

Customer Service:

• Interact professionally and courteously with customers.
• Help explain vehicle issues and services performed to customers.
• Address customer concerns and ensure satisfaction.

Safety and Compliance:

• Follow all safety protocols and guidelines.
• Adhere to company policies and environmental regulations.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, ensuring proper maintenance of tools and equipment.

Working Week:

A standard workweek typically consists of 40 hours, scheduled from Monday to Friday, starting at 8:30 am and ending at 5:30 pm. Nevertheless, the specific working hours may vary depending on the requirements of individual Dealers.

Approximately 20% of your total work hours will be dedicated to ‘off-the-job’ training. This is a mixture of online classrooms and face-to-face learning at The Performance Academy in Coventry. 

Your Development and Future Prospects:

All of our Apprentices are employed through the Dealer Network and attend week-long block training at our state-of-the-art Training Centre in Coventry. 

Block training is complemented by a combination of regular coaching visits from one of our experienced Coaches as well as Virtual Classroom sessions and E-Learning modules.

Throughout your apprenticeship journey, we are committed to nurturing your growth and development, guiding you toward attaining a widely recognized qualification in the motor industry. This qualification serves as a cornerstone for building your career, offering abundant opportunities within our expanding Dealer Network. Upon successful completion of the program, you’ll be well-equipped to advance and transition into new roles.

Qualification: 

This Programme is a straight Level 3 qualification that lasts for 36 months, plus an additional 12 weeks for your End Point Assessment. 

Salary: 

Our employers determine the level of pay our learners receive. All employers are required to pay, at least, The National Apprenticeship Wage.  

Entry requirements and qualifications:

• Aged 16+ 
• Grade C/4 or above in Maths and English or equivalent. 
• A strong interest in learning about the service and maintenance of petrol, diesel, hybrid, and electric vehicles.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to follow instructions and learn from experienced technicians.
• Basic computer skills for documentation and communication purposes.
• Working towards or in possession of a valid driver’s license and clean driving record.

Joining our programme as a Light Commercial Vehicle Technician Apprentice offers a pathway to a rewarding career in the automotive industry. If you’re eager to learn, grow, and make a positive impact, we encourage you to apply and embark on this exciting journey with Northgate. 

Recruitment Process:

Your application will be assessed against the entry and qualification requirements. If suitable, your application will then be processed and you will receive further information by email. 

If you do not hear back within 5 working days, please assume your application has been unsuccessful. 

Barriers to learning can be caused by many different difficulties including learning, physical, social, emotional, and mental health, as well as language and communication difficulties. Calex UK is an inclusive and supportive provider, with a dedicated team that will provide advice and guidance to all learners and to assess any reasonable adjustments required. Calex UK is committed to actively promoting equality of opportunity to ensure that all learners reach their full learning potential and achieve success during their learning journey. If you require any adjustments to access the application process or to discuss this in more detail, please contact us.

If you need any assistance with your application or have any questions, please email: recruitment.calexuk@gmail.com