Apprentice Mechanic in Richmond Hill

At Panda, we value waste. That means keeping essential services moving safely, efficiently and reliably every day. We are looking for an Apprentice HGV Mechanic to join our workshop team and build a career in heavy vehicle maintenance. This is a hands-on training role where you will learn from experienced technicians while working towards a recognised Heavy Vehicle Maintenance qualification through a mix of workplace learning and classroom-based study.

As an Apprentice HGV Mechanic, you will support the servicing, inspection, fault diagnosis and repair of HGVs, trailers and associated equipment. You will start by learning the basics and, over time, build the confidence and technical skills needed to carry out more complex mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and safety-critical repairs. This is a great opportunity for someone practical, reliable and eager to learn a skilled trade in a busy operational environment.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Assist with routine inspections, safety checks, maintenance and servicing on heavy goods vehicles and trailers
• Learn how to support legal roadworthiness checks in line with DVSA standards and company procedures
• Work alongside qualified technicians to identify, diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and pneumatic faults
• Learn how to use specialist diagnostic equipment and workshop tools safely and correctly
• Support repairs and maintenance on key vehicle systems, including engines, transmissions, steering, braking systems and air suspension
• Help complete service records, inspection sheets and maintenance paperwork accurately
• Follow Operator Licence requirements, workshop processes and compliance standards
• Keep the workshop clean, organised and safe
• Look after issued tools and equipment, carrying out checks where required
• Support the wider workshop team with day-to-day garage duties and parts management
• Follow all site health, safety and environmental rules at all times

Training and Development

As part of the Apprentice HGV Mechanic role, you will:

• Work towards a recognised Heavy Vehicle Service and Maintenance qualification
• Attend day release or block release training with an approved training provider or college
• Receive hands-on mentoring from experienced mechanics and technicians
• Build your skills gradually, starting with basic maintenance tasks before progressing to more complex repairs
• Gain practical experience working on commercial vehicles in a live workshop environment

About You

We are looking for someone who is keen to learn, willing to work hard and interested in building a long-term career as an HGV Mechanic. You will need:

• A genuine interest in mechanics, vehicles, engineering or maintenance
• A practical, hands-on approach to work
• Willingness to learn from experienced technicians and follow instructions carefully
• Good attention to detail, especially when completing checks and paperwork
• A safety-first mindset
• Reliability, punctuality and a positive attitude
• Confidence working as part of a team
• Willingness to attend college or training as part of the apprenticeship programme

Previous mechanical experience is not essential, but an interest in vehicles, tools, engines or repair work would be beneficial.

Working Environment

This is a practical, physically active role based in a busy workshop environment. The role may involve:

• Working around large commercial vehicles and trailers
• Working in and around inspection pits
• Climbing onto vehicle chassis where safe and appropriate
• Using tools, equipment and diagnostic systems
• Supporting the team with occasional breakdown or roadside repair activity
• Following strict safety procedures at all times

Why Join Panda?

This Apprentice HGV Mechanic opportunity gives you the chance to learn a skilled trade while gaining real experience in a business that keeps essential waste and recycling services moving. You will be supported by experienced colleagues, given structured training, and encouraged to develop the skills needed to progress within a professional workshop environment.

We are Panda. We value waste. We’re in the business of waste management but that doesn’t just mean collecting bins. Behind every collection is a passionate team of people finding smarter, safer, and more sustainable ways to recycle and repurpose materials that would otherwise go to waste.

Over the past 30 years, Panda has grown into a leading resource recovery business, bringing together almost 3,000 people across multiple brands, united by a shared vision and strong values. While our operations are diverse, our purpose is clear: to protect our people, support our customers, and create positive impact for the communities and environments we serve.

At Panda, people are at the heart of everything we do. We work as one team, combining different skills, experiences, and perspectives to achieve shared goals. We care for each other’s wellbeing, encourage development, and support growth because we know we’re stronger together.

We expect excellence in how we operate. High standards, bold thinking, and continuous improvement drive our passion for innovation. We challenge the ordinary, put safety first, and embrace new ideas while delivering practical, cost-effective solutions that move our business forward.

We own what we do. From day-to-day tasks to major projects, we take pride in our work and responsibility for the outcome. We don’t walk past problems we address them together. Our expertise, reliability, and care reflect who we are and the difference we make.

And above all, we act with trust and integrity. Trust is built through open communication, honesty, and accountability. It allows us to move quickly, make confident decisions, and deliver results — knowing our people are empowered to do the right thing.

Our journey depends on talented, committed people who want to make an impact. Take the first step and join us on the journey.

Panda is committed to attracting and retaining a skilled and diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we operate and the people we serve.