At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and repair a diverse horticultural fleet, ensuring safety and efficiency.
- Company: Join North Yorkshire Council's Fleet Management Team in Harrogate.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension scheme, discounts, and travel loans.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that keeps vital services running while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Level 3 in Horticultural Maintenance or equivalent vehicle maintenance qualifications required.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional development and specialist training courses available.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced mechanic with a passion for working on a wide range of vehicles and equipment? Do you enjoy problem-solving, working hands-on with machinery, and being part of a team that keeps vital services running? We’re looking for a skilled and proactive individual to join our Fleet Management Team at Claro Road Depot in Harrogate. Whether you’re looking to broaden your experience or take the next step in your career, this role offers a fantastic opportunity.
North Yorkshire Council operates a diverse fleet of approximately 850 vehicles, ranging from refuse trucks and gritters to road sweepers, minibuses, vans, and tippers. Around 200 of these are maintained under a Goods Operator Licence, alongside 105 minibuses operating under Transport Act Permits. The council also provides maintenance services to NY Highways Ltd and other Brierley Group companies when needed. Four MOT testing stations are in operation, conducting inspections in accordance with Department for Transport (DfT) and Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) standards. Ensuring the safety of vehicles and equipment remains a top priority, helping safeguard employees, passengers, residents, and road users while meeting all licence and permit commitments.
As our Mechanic you will:
- Maintain and repair a horticultural fleet including tractors, trailers, mini diggers, ride-on and push mowers, strimmers, blowers, and hedge cutters.
- Attend breakdowns and carry out roadside/off-site repairs throughout Harrogate.
- Conduct MOT tests (once qualified) using advanced equipment, ensuring all documentation meets official standards.
Weekend working is on an ad hoc basis; for this you will receive an additional £30 per day on top of your normal salary.
You’ll bring a strong understanding of health and safety protocols within a workshop environment, alongside expertise in horticultural machine and vehicle maintenance, repair, and diagnostics. Your technical knowledge will be backed by significant hands-on experience and a solid grasp of relevant operating standards.
To be considered, you’ll need one of the following qualifications:
- Level 3 (or equivalent) in Horticultural Maintenance
- City & Guilds Level 3 in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair
- BTEC National Certificate in Vehicle Repair and Technology
- NVQ Level 3 in Mechanical & Electrical Vehicle Maintenance and Repair
As part of your professional development, you’ll have the opportunity to attend specialist manufacturer training courses. Ideally, you’ll also be willing to pursue an MOT Testing Certificate for Class 4, 5, and 7 vehicles, and complete training for a DVSA-recognised qualification or accreditation—including licences in categories C1, C1+E, C+E, D1, and D.
Success in this role calls for someone who thrives in a fast-paced workshop, is confident using modern diagnostic and electronic systems, and possesses strong basic IT and written communication skills.
In addition to your salary, we offer a range of great benefits to help you financially and make life a bit easier. These include:
- a local government pension scheme with 18.1% employer contribution
- salary sacrifice schemes
- employee discount benefits including shopping, supermarkets, gym discounts and more!
- travel loans
- Health Assured – confidential help and support for your wellbeing
For more information, please contact Thomas Donnelly on 01423 556305 or thomas.donnelly@northyorks.gov.uk.
Closing date: 15th February 2026
Horticultural Vehicle Technician in Harrogate employer: Connected Local Government
Contact Detail:
Connected Local Government Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Horticultural Vehicle Technician in Harrogate
✨Tip Number 1
Get your hands dirty! If you can, try to gain some practical experience with horticultural machinery before applying. This will not only boost your confidence but also give you some solid talking points during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry through social media or local events. You never know who might have a lead on a job or can offer you some insider tips on landing that mechanic role.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! When you get the chance for an interview, be ready to discuss specific projects or repairs you've worked on. Use examples that highlight your problem-solving abilities and technical knowledge.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our Fleet Management Team!
We think you need these skills to ace Horticultural Vehicle Technician in Harrogate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills: Make sure to highlight your hands-on experience with horticultural machinery and vehicle maintenance. We want to see how your technical knowledge aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to customise your application for this specific role. Mention your understanding of health and safety protocols and any relevant qualifications you have. This helps us see that you’re a perfect fit for our team!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your experience and skills, as we appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Connected Local Government
✨Know Your Machines
Make sure you brush up on the specific horticultural vehicles and equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarise yourself with their maintenance and repair processes, as well as any common issues they face. This will show your passion and expertise during the interview.
✨Safety First
Since health and safety is a top priority, be prepared to discuss your understanding of safety protocols in a workshop environment. Think of examples from your past experience where you ensured safety standards were met, and be ready to explain how you would apply these in the new role.
✨Show Off Your Qualifications
Highlight your relevant qualifications, such as your Level 3 in Horticultural Maintenance or City & Guilds in Vehicle Maintenance. Be specific about how your training has prepared you for this role, and mention any additional certifications you’re willing to pursue, like the MOT Testing Certificate.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
This role involves being part of a team, so be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in a workshop setting. Discuss how you handle challenges as a team and your approach to problem-solving when things don’t go as planned.