At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspect, diagnose, repair and test bus systems while learning from experienced technicians.
- Company: Join Arriva, a leading provider of passenger transport across Europe.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with competitive pay and gain invaluable skills.
- Other info: Dynamic apprenticeship with excellent career growth opportunities in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of revolutionising bus travel and connect communities sustainably.
- Qualifications: GCSE Maths and English at Grade C/Level 3 minimum required.
The predicted salary is between 8 - 8 £ per hour.
At Arriva, our Engineering Teams keep our buses moving and the communities we serve connected. As an Apprentice Bus Technician, you will be trained to inspect, diagnose, repair and test equipment and systems on buses from different manufacturers. The work ranges from performing simple tasks, like replacing a part to solving complex faults often using diagnostic equipment. The tasks faced by a technician are constantly changing as vehicles become more complex with the introduction of new technologies and differing fuel types. At Arriva, you will have the opportunity to develop your skills and experience across a range of vehicles. You will be based at our Milton Keynes depot, working alongside an experienced team who will support and mentor you along the way.
About the Apprenticeship
This 4-year programme is working towards a Bus and Coach Technician Level 3 qualification with a specialism in Mech/Elec (mechanical / electrical). The course runs with 5-day training blocks every 6-weeks which take place at our partner’s state-of-the-art workshop in Wolverhampton. The course will give you skills and experience to give you the required level of competence to become a skilled Bus Engineer, including:
- How to inspect, diagnose and record defects to the applicable standard
- Diagnostic principles based on logical, analytical interpretation leading to solving problems
- Emerging bus and coach technologies and the impact they will have on the knowledge and skills technicians will require in the future
- Current Health and Safety requirements and workshop practices
- How to carry out high quality road worthiness inspections specific to their trade
- How the business works from an operational perspective and where their role fits within the business and how they contribute to the success of the organisation
- Customer expectations delivering a safe, clean, reliable service
- The requirements of attending and assessing roadside incidents
About You
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. You will need to have GCSE Maths and English (or equivalent) at Grade C / Level 3 as a minimum.
As an apprentice with us the starting salary will be £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.
Arriva is a leading provider of passenger transport across Europe, employing around 34,400 people and delivering around 1.6 billion passenger journeys. With buses, trains, coaches, trams, waterbuses, bike-sharing systems, on-demand transport solutions and a rolling stock leasing company, Arriva proudly connects people and communities safely, reliably and sustainably across 11 countries, delivering these services in a better way, every day.
Apprentice Mechanical - Electrical Bus Technician employer: Arriva The Shires Limited
Arriva is an excellent employer, offering a comprehensive apprenticeship programme that not only equips you with essential skills in bus maintenance but also provides a supportive work culture where mentorship from experienced technicians fosters personal and professional growth. Located in Milton Keynes, this role offers unique opportunities to work on diverse bus systems while enjoying the benefits of a structured training pathway leading to a recognised qualification.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Mechanical - Electrical Bus Technician
✨Get Hands-On in the Field
Mechanical engineering is all about practical skills, so dive into local workshops or maker spaces. Attending hands-on events can help you network with professionals who might know about apprenticeship opportunities at companies like Arriva The Shires Limited.
✨Utilise Engineering Competitions
Join engineering competitions or clubs at your university or in your community. These not only look great on your CV but can also connect you with companies looking to recruit apprentices, including Arriva The Shires Limited.
✨Tap into University Career Services
If you're currently studying, make sure to hit up your university's career services. They often have connections with firms like Arriva The Shires Limited who are on the lookout for eager apprentices. Take full advantage of their resources!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Create a portfolio showcasing any projects you've worked on, whether for school or personal interest. A well-curated portfolio can impress potential employers like Arriva The Shires Limited when you're stepping into the apprenticeship scene.
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Mechanical - Electrical Bus Technician
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Relevant Skills:When applying for a mechanical engineering apprenticeship, highlight any relevant skills or hands-on experience you've got. If you've worked on projects related to design, CAD software, or any hands-on mechanical work, make sure to include that to show you're ready for the practical side of things!
Dive into Your Education:Apprenticeships value your learning potential, so don’t forget to mention your academic achievements, specifically in STEM subjects. Talk about any courses or certifications related to mechanical engineering you've taken and how they inspire you to grow in this field.
Personalise Your Cover Letter:This isn’t just any application—you want to grab attention! In your cover letter, weave in your passion for mechanical engineering. Share why you’re excited about potentially working with Arriva The Shires Limited and how this apprenticeship aligns with your career goals. Let your enthusiasm shine through!
Highlight Teamwork & Problem-Solving:Mechanical engineering is all about collaboration and critical thinking. Include examples in your CV or cover letter where you’ve tackled a problem as a team, or solved a challenge in a project. This shows recruiters at Arriva The Shires Limited that you're ready to contribute positively from day one.
How to prepare for a job interview at Arriva The Shires Limited
✨Show Off Your Practical Skills
As this is an apprenticeship in mechanical engineering, make sure you highlight any hands-on experience you have. Bring along examples of projects or tasks you've done, whether it's in school or outside. If you've got a portfolio of work or even some photos of your projects, that can really set you apart!
✨Know Your Tools and Techniques
Brush up on the specific tools and techniques commonly used in mechanical engineering. Be prepared to discuss software like CAD (Computer-Aided Design) or simulation tools, as these might come up during technical questions. Understanding of basic engineering principles will also give you a solid foundation to impress your interviewers at Arriva The Shires Limited.
✨Demonstrate Your Eagerness to Learn
Apprenticeships are all about learning on the job. So, be ready to articulate why you want to pursue this path at Arriva The Shires Limited. Share any relevant coursework or experiences that piqued your interest in mechanical engineering, and let your enthusiasm shine through!
✨Practice Problem-Solving on the Spot
You may face some situational or problem-solving questions during your interview, especially practical ones that mimic real-world engineering challenges. Practise how you'd approach such problems – think through your reasoning and how you would apply your knowledge practically. This shows you can think on your feet, which is key in mechanical engineering!
