At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn to assess and repair vehicle damage while keeping our buses in top shape.
- Company: Join Arriva, a leader in sustainable bus travel and community connection.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with competitive pay and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: 4-year apprenticeship with expert mentorship and state-of-the-art training.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in a hands-on role that makes a real difference.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed, just a passion for problem-solving and teamwork.
The predicted salary is between 18 - 20 £ per hour.
At Arriva, our Engineering Teams keep our buses moving and the communities we serve connected. As an Apprentice Vehicle Damage Technician, you will be trained to assess vehicle damage, make decisions on whether it’s repairable, remove and repair damaged panels, to keep our buses running at their very best. You will be based at our Durham depot, working alongside an experienced team who will support and mentor you along the way.
This 4-year programme is working towards a Vehicle Damage Panel Technician Level 3 qualification with additional bus-specific modules. The course runs for 140 weeks with 5-day training blocks every 7-weeks which take place at our partner’s state-of-the-art workshop in Glasgow. The course will give you skills and experience across all core elements of vehicle body repair including:
- Motor vehicle chassis and body alignment, e.g. underbody measurement and its impact on suspension and steering geometry
- Vehicle body types, panel identification, safety systems, materials and alternative fuel
- Use of Body Panel Repair tools, equipment and devices used in the process e.g. alignment jigs, resistance welding equipment, riveting and bonding tools
- Removal and replacement of body panels and associated parts e.g. mechanically fixed components, chemically fixed components
- Interpretation of technical data for joining techniques and replacement panels
- Health & Safety and compliance requirements of the bodyshop industry
This is a programme designed for people at every stage in life. It could be your first venture into work after finishing school, or the exciting career move you’ve been looking for. Whatever your motivation, we’re looking for those with an inquisitive mindset who love solving problems and don’t mind getting their hands dirty.
As an apprentice with us the starting salary will is £8.00 per hour in your first year if you are under 18, £10.85 if you are 18 to 20 or £12.71 if you are 21 and over rising in line with national minimum wage and progression.
Together, we strive to make travelling by bus the best choice for everyone. With our doors open to all, you’ll have the chance to build a fulfilling career with us, one where you can explore your passions, aspirations and realise your full potential. As you progress, you'll have the opportunity to earn a competitive salary, and we'll be there to support you every step of the way. Join us and be at the forefront of revolutionising bus travel. You'll be a vital part of something big – by connecting communities, promoting sustainable travel, and contributing to a better tomorrow. You'll also gain invaluable skills and knowledge that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Apprentice Vehicle Body Technician in North East employer: Arriva Rail London Ltd
Arriva UK Bus is an excellent employer for skilled engineers, offering a supportive team environment and opportunities for career progression within one of the UK's leading transport operators. With competitive pay, ongoing training, and benefits like free or discounted bus travel, employees can build a stable, long-term engineering career while contributing to the safety and reliability of public transport in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Vehicle Body Technician in North East
✨Get Hands-On Experience
If you’re looking to break into the skilled trades, seek out volunteer opportunities or part-time gigs that let you flex your hands-on skills. Local community projects or workshops can give you some valuable experience and show potential employers your commitment and passion for the trade!
✨Join Trade Associations
Diving into local trade associations is a great way to connect with professionals in your field. These organisations often host events, training sessions, and networking opportunities that can put you right in front of hiring companies—who knows, you might even bump into someone from Arriva Rail London Ltd!
✨Leverage Your Connections
Talk to friends, family, and acquaintances about your apprenticeship search. Sometimes, the best gigs come from word-of-mouth referrals. Let everyone know you’re on the hunt; you’d be surprised at who might have a contact in the industry!
✨Apply Through Our Website!
Make sure to check out Arriva Rail London Ltd's career page for the latest apprenticeship openings. We always have various roles available, and applying directly through our site can help you stand out as a candidate eager to start learning and working with us!
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Vehicle Body Technician in North East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills:In skilled trades, your hands-on abilities say a lot. Be sure to highlight any relevant experience you've had—whether that's in school, past jobs, or personal projects. If you've got a knack for a certain technique or trade, make it shine on your CV!
Certifications Count!:If you’ve got any relevant certifications or training, don’t hesitate to showcase them. Details like your health and safety qualifications or any specific trade courses you've completed can set you apart from the competition. Just make sure they’re super clear and easy to find on your application!
Express Your Enthusiasm:For an apprenticeship, your motivation is key. Use your cover letter to explain why you’re eager to learn and grow in your chosen trade. Talk about what excites you about the industry and how working at Arriva Rail London Ltd can help you achieve your goals.
Tailor Your Application for Arriva Rail London Ltd:When you’re applying, make sure to personalise your application for Arriva Rail London Ltd. Do a bit of research on the company’s values and goals in skilled trades, and mention how your aspirations and values align with theirs. This shows you’ve done your homework and are genuinely keen on joining their team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Arriva Rail London Ltd
✨Show Off Your Hands-On Skills
As we're diving into the skilled trades for your apprenticeship, make sure you highlight any practical experience you’ve had. Whether you’ve done DIY projects or worked with tools before, let them know how comfortable you are getting your hands dirty and solving real-world problems.
✨Be Ready for Practical Assessments
Expect a hands-on assessment during the interview or as part of your apprenticeship application. You might be asked to demonstrate a specific skill or technique relevant to the trade—so brush up on your practical skills and come prepared to showcase what you’ve got!
✨Learn About the Tools of the Trade
Familiarise yourself with the common tools and equipment used in your trade before the interview. They might ask about your experience with certain tools or methods, so having a basic understanding and mentioning any tools you’ve used can really set you apart.
✨Express Your Willingness to Learn
As an apprentice, showing your eagerness to learn is crucial! Talk about your motivation for joining the industry and any steps you've taken to educate yourself, like online resources or workshops, to demonstrate you’re ready to grow with the company.
