At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and repair a diverse horticultural fleet, including tractors and mowers.
- Company: Join North Yorkshire Council's Fleet Management Team, ensuring vital services run smoothly.
- Benefits: Enjoy a local government pension, employee discounts, and travel loans.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team, enhancing your skills while making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Level 3 in Horticultural Maintenance or equivalent vehicle maintenance qualifications required.
- Other info: Weekend work available with extra pay; opportunities for further training and development.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Overview
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.
Our Service
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.
The Role
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.
What you will bring
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.
What can we offer you?
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
Click on our Total Rewards Brochure at the bottom of this advert to see the full range of benefits.
Contact and Apply
For more information, please contact Thomas Donnelly on 01423 556305 or thomas.donnelly@northyorks.gov.uk.
Key Dates
Closing date: 15th February 2026
To apply please click the Apply Now link below.
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Horticultural Vehicle Technician employer: North Yorkshire Council
Contact Detail:
North Yorkshire Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Horticultural Vehicle Technician
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific types of horticultural vehicles and equipment mentioned in the job description. Understanding the maintenance and repair needs of tractors, mini diggers, and mowers will give you an edge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any hands-on experience you have with similar machinery or in a workshop environment. Be ready to discuss specific examples of problem-solving and repairs you've successfully completed.
✨Tip Number 3
Research North Yorkshire Council and their Fleet Management Team. Knowing their values and operations can help you tailor your conversation and show genuine interest in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your understanding of health and safety protocols in a workshop setting. This is crucial for the role, so be ready to explain how you ensure safety while working on vehicles.
We think you need these skills to ace Horticultural Vehicle Technician
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with horticultural machinery and vehicle maintenance. Include specific examples of your hands-on work, problem-solving skills, and any relevant qualifications.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for mechanics and your understanding of health and safety protocols. Mention your willingness to pursue further qualifications, such as the MOT Testing Certificate.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasise your technical knowledge and hands-on experience with various vehicles and equipment. Be specific about the types of machinery you've worked on and any diagnostic systems you are familiar with.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at North Yorkshire Council
✨Show Your Passion for Horticulture
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with horticultural vehicles and equipment. Share any personal experiences or projects that highlight your passion for this field, as it will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of past challenges you've faced in vehicle maintenance or repairs. Discuss how you approached these problems and the solutions you implemented, showcasing your hands-on experience and technical knowledge.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Health and Safety Protocols
Since health and safety is a top priority, be ready to discuss your understanding of relevant protocols in a workshop environment. Highlight any specific training or certifications you have that relate to safety standards.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the Fleet Management Team. Inquire about the types of vehicles you'll be working on or the training opportunities available, showing your genuine interest in the position and the company.