Halfords Apprentice Technician in Saltcoats

Earn while you learn and work full time in a Halfords workshop based in Saltcoats. An apprentice in one of the 600+ Halfords Autocentres is unlike anything you will find in a traditional service business. You can expect to encounter almost any make or model of car for various types of work, from servicing and inspections to complex repair work, engine rebuilds, and diagnostics.

A successful Halfords Autocentre Apprentice is adaptable, flexible, and enjoys the challenge of resolving new problems every day. You will be customer-focused with sharp attention to detail, as well as the ability to listen to and learn from your college lecturers, colleagues, and mentors to gain the skills to diagnose and repair vehicles to the highest standard.

The nature of the work ranges from replacing simple parts to solving complex faults using diagnostic methods and equipment. The day-to-day tasks faced by an automotive technician are constantly changing, driven by the introduction of ever more complex technologies and diagnostic techniques. Today’s apprentice must demonstrate expertise in the technical and diagnostic side of their role.

You must have strong problem-solving skills and a good grasp of the theoretical and practical aspects of a vehicle’s systems. You should be able to work independently but also operate as an effective team member, understanding how the workshop and the Autocentre functions from a commercial perspective.

Working week:

• Autocentre Opening Hours – 0800 – 1800 (6/7 days per week)
• Total hours per week: 40 hrs for up to 18 years and 44 hrs for over 18 years

For the right candidate, this position will offer:

• 30 days holiday rising to 33 days
• Constant variety of vehicles to work on
• Life assurance
• Discount high street shopping scheme
• Generous colleague discount scheme
• Pension
• An amazing opportunity to be employed by one of the ‘Top 25 Sunday Times Best Big Companies to Work For’
• Training and working towards qualifications with GTG Training

What will I learn?

During the programme, apprentices will gain the knowledge and skills required to become competent technicians in the workplace. Topics covered include workplace safety, engineering skills, vehicle inspection and servicing, maintenance, repair, and diagnosing faults around the engine, chassis, and electrical systems. Regular assessment and reviews will be undertaken within the apprentice's own workplace with dedicated mentors from GTG and the apprentice’s workplace.

You will train through GTG, attending block release training weeks, to SCQF Level 5 Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair, with the chance to continue your training to SCQF Level 7 after 2 years.

What qualification or qualities are required?

Qualifications Required:

• National 4 or above in Maths, English, and a Science or Technical subject or equivalent

Desired Skills And Personal Qualities:

• A friendly, helpful, and team-oriented approach, with a genuine interest in building a career as an Auto Vehicle Technician.
• Strong practical ability and confidence working with your hands, with the physical fitness needed for the manual aspects of the role.
• An interest in how vehicles operate and enthusiasm for diagnosing, analysing, and solving problems.
• Organised, methodical, and attentive to detail, with the ability to follow processes and complete tasks to a high standard.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work well with colleagues, customers, and mentors.
• General mechanical and analytical skills, along with the willingness to learn new techniques and technologies.
• Adaptable, flexible, and motivated — able to tackle new challenges daily and committed to delivering excellent customer service.
• Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office packages.

Application Process:

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the advert may close early if a high volume of suitable applications is reached. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online screening interview with GTG. Candidates must be available to attend an in-person assessment day at GTG Glasgow in June 2026, which will include a practical session and an interview with a member of the Halfords management team. Successful applicants will receive offers for a Summer 2026 start. Apprentices will begin their training with GTG from August.

For more information on the application process, please contact GTG on 0141 950 5600 or gtgrecruitment@gtg.co.uk.