At a Glance
- Tasks: Get hands-on with vehicle repairs, diagnostics, and innovative engineering projects.
- Company: Join AutoNet VIP, a family-run business at the forefront of automotive technology.
- Benefits: Earn a fully funded BEng (Hons) while gaining real-world experience.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic workshop environment with opportunities for professional registration.
- Why this job: Ditch the desk and dive into exciting automotive challenges with future career growth.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths, A Levels in Maths and Physics required.
The predicted salary is between 38250 - 46750 £ per year.
Ditch the desk job and build real‑world engineering skills. At AutoNet VIP, you will get straight onto the workshop floor diagnosing mechanical faults, repairing modern powertrains, and testing components. You'll gain extensive hands‑on experience while earning a fully funded BEng (Hons) at the University of Hertfordshire.
AutoNet VIP is a growing, family‑run vehicle repair and diagnostics business based in Harlow, Essex. We specialise in electric and hybrid vehicle technologies alongside traditional petrol and diesel models. Built on a commitment to honest, high‑quality service and cutting‑edge diagnostic technology, the workshop handles everything from routine servicing and MOTs to complex electronic repairs and performance vehicles. As a forward‑thinking business, AutoNet VIP actively embraces digital innovation—including online booking systems, automated customer communications, and data‑driven workshop management. We are dedicated to investing in future talent, supporting our apprentices with hands‑on mentoring, modern technical facilities, and direct exposure to real‑world commercial challenges.
What You'll Do
- Practical workshop maintenance and repairs: Get hands‑on daily dismantling, servicing, and rebuilding mechanical components across petrol, diesel, hybrid, and electric vehicles—including brakes, suspension, steering, gearboxes, and engine assemblies.
- Root‑cause fault diagnosis: Investigate complex mechanical and electromechanical failures in the workshop using diagnostic equipment, precision measuring tools, and physical component inspections to identify why parts fail.
- Engine and powertrain work: Support technicians with hands‑on engine rebuilds, component replacements, transmission overhauls, and thermal management/cooling system maintenance.
- EV and hybrid powertrain support: Work directly on modern electrified powertrains, assisting with high‑voltage battery systems, electric motors, regenerative braking mechanisms, and electromechanical interfaces.
- CAD modelling and practical design: Apply university engineering principles to produce 2D/3D CAD models and technical drawings for custom workshop tooling, replacement brackets, or component modifications.
- Component testing and verification: Physically inspect, measure tolerances, and road/bench test vehicle systems post‑repair to ensure safety, performance, and dimensional accuracy.
- Workshop process improvement: Identify practical workshop challenges and get involved in hands‑on engineering improvement projects to streamline repair methods, reduce waste, and improve tooling.
- Technical documentation and safety: Complete detailed job cards, record torque and measurement data, and strictly adhere to workshop health, safety, and COSHH standards.
Training Outcome
Upon successful completion of the Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship and graduating with a BEng (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering, a permanent position within AutoNet VIP will be available for a high‑performing apprentice. As AutoNet VIP continues to expand its engineering capabilities across hybrid, electric, and high‑performance vehicles, clear career progression routes include:
- Lead Diagnostic & Mechanical Engineer: Taking ownership of complex mechanical repairs, major engine rebuilds, powertrain overhauls, and advanced root‑cause fault investigations across combustion, hybrid, and EV platforms.
- Automotive Design & Development Engineer: Applying CAD/CAM, FEA, and engineering principles to develop custom workshop tooling, bespoke replacement components, and mechanical modifications for specialized and high‑performance vehicles.
- Workshop Engineering Manager / Technical Lead: Overseeing workshop operations, managing quality assurance and health and safety standards, mentoring the next cohort of apprentices, and optimizing technical repair procedures.
- Electromechanical & EV Specialist: Leading the technical implementation and diagnostics for next‑generation electric vehicle powertrains, high‑voltage battery systems, and connected vehicle technology.
Professional Registration
Full academic eligibility and practical experience to achieve Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status with professional engineering bodies such as the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), with a structured pathway towards Chartered Engineer (CEng).
Skills Required
- Communication skills
- IT skills
- Attention to detail
- Organisation skills
- Customer care skills
- Problem solving skills
- Number skills
- Analytical skills
- Logical
- Team working
- Creative
- Initiative
- Physical fitness
- Hands‑on mechanical aptitude
- Willingness to get hands dirty
- Health & safety awareness
- Automotive passion
- Diagnostic mindset
Qualifications
- Essential - GCSE - English Language - 4 or above
- Essential - GCSE - Maths - 4 or above
- Essential - A Level - Maths - B
- Essential - A Level - Physics - B
- Desired - BTEC - Extended diploma in Engineering - DDM (Maths distinction)
Course Information
Course: Product design and development engineer (degree) (level 6)
Level: 6
Route: Engineering and manufacturing Apprenticeship Level: Degree
Working Arrangements
Working Week: Monday to Friday, typically 8:00am to 5:00pm (exact workshop shift pattern to be confirmed). University attendance and study time are integrated into these working hours. Occasional Saturday morning workshop work may be required.
Expected Duration: 4 Years
Training Provider: UNIVERSITY OF HERTFORDSHIRE
Automotive Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprentice in Harlow employer: Auto Motor Excellence
AutoNet VIP is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its apprentices in a supportive, family-run environment. Located in Harlow, Essex, the company offers a unique opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology in the electric and hybrid vehicle sector while pursuing a debt-free BSc (Hons) Data Science degree. With hands-on mentoring, modern facilities, and a commitment to digital innovation, AutoNet VIP fosters a collaborative work culture that encourages continuous learning and career progression.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Automotive Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprentice in Harlow
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Engineering Events
Join local engineering meetups or industry conferences related to mechanical engineering. Whether it's a workshop or a career fair, these events are goldmines for networking and getting a foot in the door. Plus, you can showcase your passion and enthusiasm directly to potential employers like Auto Motor Excellence.
✨Connect with Professors & Peers
Tap into your university’s resources—professors often have connections in the industry. Don’t be shy to ask about potential openings or recommendations. Your classmates might also know of companies hiring. Often, it’s who you know that gets you in front of the right people!
✨Highlight Your Projects and Practical Experience
When you land those interviews, make sure to talk about your hands-on projects or internships. Whether it's a design project or hands-on experience with CAD software, specific examples will make you stand out. Companies like Auto Motor Excellence love to hear about practical applications of your skills.
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
Check out the careers page of Auto Motor Excellence and apply directly through there. It shows initiative and interest in their specific values. Plus, you'll often find openings that aren't advertised on job boards, giving you a better chance to land that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Automotive Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprentice in Harlow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Expertise:In mechanical engineering, it’s vital to highlight your technical skills and projects. Make sure to include relevant software proficiency (like CAD tools) in your CV. If you've worked on specific engineering projects, detail your key contributions — we want to see how you’ve applied your skills in a practical setting!
Focus on Problem-Solving Examples:Employers in mechanical engineering love to see how you handle challenges. Use your cover letter to share specific instances where you’ve solved a complex problem or improved a design. This will show us you're not just knowledgeable but also capable of applying that knowledge effectively.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Include any relevant certifications or training that can set you apart from the competition. Whether it's coursework from your degree, a recognised certification, or extra training in new technologies, we love to see candidates who continuously improve their skill set. This tells us you're serious about your career in engineering!
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don’t forget to customise your CV for Auto Motor Excellence and the Automotive Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprentice role specifically. Pull examples from your experience that align with the job description — it shows us you've done your research and are genuinely interested in becoming part of the team. We recommend applying through our website to ensure your application gets to the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Auto Motor Excellence
✨Brush Up on Your CAD Skills
Since mechanical engineering often involves design processes, be ready to showcase your proficiency in CAD software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Bring along a digital portfolio or even some sketches that demonstrate your design capabilities — it’s a great way to show what you can bring to the table at Auto Motor Excellence.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that test your understanding of engineering principles and problem-solving skills. You might get hypothetical scenarios where you need to design a component or troubleshoot a mechanical system. Practising these types of questions will give you the confidence to tackle whatever comes your way!
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a full-time mechanical engineer, collaboration is key! Be ready to share examples of past team projects or any experiences where you contributed to solving a complex problem with others. Demonstrating your ability to work in a team will resonate well with the interviewers at Auto Motor Excellence.
✨Discuss Your Future Goals
Since this is a full-time position, your long-term vision is important. Be open about your career aspirations, whether it’s mastering a specific tool or leading projects. This shows that you're committed not just to learning but also to growing with Auto Motor Excellence, making you a more appealing candidate.
