At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn to service and repair plant machinery while gaining hands-on experience.
- Company: Join GAP Group, the UK's leading equipment hire provider.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn, with competitive salary and career progression.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive environment with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in engineering with structured training and real-world experience.
- Qualifications: 4 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above and a passion for plant machinery.
The predicted salary is between 16224 - 16224 £ per year.
General information
Reference: 011917
Publication start date: 08/09/2026
Contract type: Permanent Full Time
Location: London Road, Wheatley, Oxford, OX331JH, United Kingdom, South East, Oxford
Vacancy contact: Kirsty Goudie (Kirsty.Goudie@gap-group.co.uk)
Number of positions: 1
Contract hours: 42.50
About the role
The Role: Kick start your career as a Plant Mechanic with GAP Group's award winning Apprenticeship Programme. You'll earn while you learn, gaining hands on experience alongside our expert fitters while working towards a nationally recognised qualification. With industry leading equipment, structured training, and genuine career progression, this is more than just an apprenticeship, it's the start of a long term career with GAP Group. This is a 3-year long course, Monday to Friday 8-5pm with no required weekend working.
Our Apprenticeship Programme Allows You to Earn as you Learn:
- Apprentices under 18 joining our programme will be required to work a maximum of 39 hours per week with a starting salary of £16,224 per annum.
- Apprentices over 18 joining our programme will be required to work a maximum of 42.5 hours per week with a starting salary of £17,860 per annum.
- After successful completion of Year 1, you will automatically move onto the National Minimum Wage rate for your age group.
About You
What You'll be Doing: As an Apprentice Fitter, you'll develop the skills and knowledge needed to become a qualified Plant Mechanic, including:
- Learning how to service, maintain and repair a wide range of plant machinery and equipment
- Replacing components, checking systems, and calibrating instruments
- Developing core engineering skills alongside exposure to modern technology, including electro hydraulics and computerised control systems
- Working alongside experienced fitters to gain hands on, real world experience in a busy workshop environment
What do I need to Apply?
- A minimum of 4 GCSEs at Grade 4 and above, or a minimum of 4 National 4s at passing Grade
- A genuine interest in plant machinery and engineering
- A high level of attention to detail and accuracy
- Good communication skills and a willingness to learn
On successful completion of the apprenticeship, you can progress into a Workshop Fitter role. From there, GAP offers a variety of career pathways, including a Mobile Fitter, Workshop Foreman and Depot Manager. At GAP, we believe in developing our people and promoting from within.
About Us
About GAP & What We Offer: At GAP, we're proud to be the UK's leading equipment hire provider - supporting projects big and small across construction, infrastructure, events, and more. With nearly 200 locations nationwide and a wide range of specialist divisions, we offer exciting opportunities in everything from Plant & Tools to Lifting, Survey, Environmental, and Event Services. As a family-run business with over 50 years of experience, we believe in doing things the right way. That means:
- More investment in our equipment than anyone else in the industry, so you work with the best tools in the game
- Remaining fully independent, which lets us make agile, long-term decisions that support your success
- Offering real career growth, training, and development from day one
- Support that values you – from generous holidays to Life Assurance and Health & Wellness Support
If you're up for the challenge and want to feel valued at work, then we'd love to hear from you! Ready to get started? Upload your CV and complete our short application - we'll take it from there. We're proud to be an Equal Opportunities employer and embrace the unique contributions each individual brings.
Apprentice Fitter in Oxford employer: GAP Group
GAP is an exceptional employer that prioritises your growth and well-being, offering a supportive work culture where your driving skills truly make a difference. With a commitment to investing in top-notch equipment and providing extensive training from day one, you'll have the opportunity to thrive in a family-run business that values its employees. Enjoy generous holidays, health and wellness support, and the chance to be part of a leading team in the UK's equipment hire industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Fitter in Oxford
✨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 Apprentice Fitter in Oxford
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 GAP Group'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 GAP Group. 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 GAP Group
✨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 GAP Group.
