At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to maintain and service our fleet of innovative buses.
- Company: First Bus, a leading UK bus operator embracing cutting-edge technology.
- Benefits: Great pay, health perks, discounts, free travel, and up to 5 weeks holiday.
- Other info: Full training provided, with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Kickstart your mechanics career while making a real impact on public transport.
- Qualifications: Basic vehicle mechanics knowledge or Level 2 NVQ in vehicle maintenance required.
The predicted salary is between 16.8 - 16.8 £ per hour.
About First Bus: Are you ready to advance your career with one of the UK's leading bus operators? Join a forward-thinking company that embraces cutting-edge bus technology, from innovative mobile apps to environmentally friendly vehicles. We are passionate about delivering passenger journeys that are sustainable, comfortable, and efficient. We are at the forefront of innovation in the industry, connecting communities and shaping the future of public transport.
Position: Semi-Skilled Mechanic
Location: First Bus Weston-Super-Mare, Searle Crescent BS23 3XP
Contracted Hours: 39 per week (full time & permanent)
Working Hours: Friday-Monday 5am-3pm
Pay Rate: £16.80 per hour
Join our energetic team of Engineers and Maintenance staff who keep our fleet in top condition at First Bus. If you have an interest in mechanics, perhaps a Level 2 NVQ, this role could be a great starting point for you, working alongside our engineering team to learn and develop your existing skills.
As a Semi-Skilled Mechanic, you'll play a vital role in making sure our vehicles are ready to hit the road each day at our Weston-Super-Mare depot. For helping keep our fleet on the road, you'll earn a good hourly pay rate and great rewards & benefits.
Key Responsibilities:
- Replacing vehicle oils and filters
- General servicing and maintenance checks on vehicles, reporting any visible defects to Engineers
- Fuelling/charging and shunting vehicles around the depot ready for shift or next clean
- Attending on-road breakdowns and recoveries when required
- Carry out vehicle under chassis washing, including exterior cleaning using a pressure washer and internal cleaning
- To record details of all work done and accurately complete any necessary sheets/record cards
About You:
- Full UK driving license is required for this role – we can provide PCV training
- Do you have a basic knowledge of vehicle mechanics, or a Level 2 NVQ in vehicle maintenance and repair?
- Are you able to take part in ongoing training as part of your role?
Rewards:
- Your health is important to us which is why we offer Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you! This offering includes cash-back benefits across optical & dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advice.
- We are also committed to your financial wellbeing, and we offer a platform with many discounts on high street brands and supermarkets etc.
- Working at First you also receive discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service as well as a free bus pass.
- Free onsite parking + cycle to work scheme
- Up to 5 weeks holiday + bank holidays
- Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted FirstGroup shares
Semi-Skilled Mechanic employer: First West of England
First Bus is an excellent employer for experienced bus drivers, offering a stable and supportive work environment in Worcester. With competitive pay, guaranteed hours, and a commitment to employee wellbeing through health benefits and financial support, we prioritise your growth and job satisfaction. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team that values innovation and community connection while enjoying perks like discounted travel and generous holiday allowances.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Semi-Skilled Mechanic
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Semi-Skilled Mechanic
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch First West of England's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at First West of England. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at First West of England
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at First West of England.