At a Glance
- Tasks: Repair and maintain a diverse fleet of vehicles for the USAF.
- Company: Join Serco, a top international employer with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, pension scheme, and extensive training opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with strong focus on diversity and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national defence while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 in Vehicle Maintenance and a full UK driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 45000 £ per year.
Location: RAF Molesworth, Huntingdon, PE28 4DA
Salary: Up to £34,881 dependent on experience and qualifications, plus excellent benefits
Schedule: Permanent, full-time, 39 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with participation in a 1-in-4 emergency call-out rota - paid at an overtime rate in addition to your salary.
As a Vehicle Mechanic in our defence contract team, you’ll play a vital role in keeping Government Owned Vehicles operational and safe for our customer, the United States Air Force (USAF). Your work directly supports operational readiness and delivers a positive impact on the communities and people who rely on these services. This is a hands-on, purpose-driven role where your technical expertise ensures a diverse fleet is maintained to the highest standards.
What you’ll do as a Vehicle Mechanic:
- Repair and maintain a fleet of over 130 vehicles, including U.S. specification and left-hand drive models.
- Service a wide range of assets, including HGV tractors and trailers, fire trucks, police vehicles, vans, forklifts, tail lifts, and generators.
- Carry out inspections, diagnostics, repairs, brake tests, and MOT-standard checks using specialist equipment.
- Ensure all work complies with Air Force Instructions and Ministry of Transport regulations.
- Conduct test drives to confirm vehicle roadworthiness and performance.
- Maintain workshop equipment, cleanliness, and safe working practices.
- Accurately manage spares, tools, and maintenance records.
- Support drivers and management by demonstrating preventative maintenance processes.
- Participate in the emergency call-out rota and work outside standard hours when operationally required.
Does this sound like you?
- A full, clean UK driving licence.
- NVQ Level 3 in Vehicle Maintenance or an equivalent qualification.
- Proven diagnostic experience and the ability to inspect and repair vehicles to MOT standards.
- Strong tyre changing and wheel balancing skills.
- A methodical, safety-first approach and pride in delivering high-quality work.
Desirable skills include Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC), mobile air conditioning qualification, roadside recovery experience, HGV plus trailer (+E) licence, forklift licence, and knowledge of environmental and hazardous waste handling in workshops.
This role requires Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance, which involves verifying your identity, employment history, nationality, and criminal record to meet government security standards. In addition, depending on the nature of the role, you may need to obtain formal Security Clearance (such as CTC or SC), which includes more detailed background checks on employment, criminal record, and financial history to ensure suitability for working in secure environments.
Please note that UK residency requirements may apply for certain levels of clearance. You will also complete an Occupational Health Questionnaire so we can identify and provide any support you may need to undertake the role effectively.
We’re one of the top 1% of international employers, so you can have confidence you’ll be part of a highly supportive culture with leaders you can count on to help you achieve your goals. From mentoring and training to our focus on internal progression, we’re proud to offer clear development opportunities – and the support and tools to help you seize them.
What we offer:
- Holidays: Competitive holiday package.
- Pension: Up to 6% contributory pension scheme.
- Training and development: Over 1,100 internal courses available, funding for qualifications and apprenticeships (including L3 Team Leader and L5 Operations Manager apprenticeships), mentoring opportunities, and a focus on internal progression.
- Health and wellbeing: Employee Assistance Programme, Bupa Anytime HealthLine, wellbeing app, 30% off at Serco-managed leisure centres, and 24/7 access to a virtual GP service.
- Discounts: Discounts across around 1,000 retailers, from food and clothing to days out, entertainment and travel.
- Charity: Paid volunteering day, tax-free charitable giving through Payroll Giving Scheme, donate your pennies from your monthly pay to the Serco People Fund Charity.
- Employee networks: Our networks support inclusion and connection by providing spaces for collaboration, learning, and belonging.
At Serco, we see people first and foremost for their performance and potential. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that supports the needs of all. As such we will make reasonable adjustments at interview through to employment for our candidates and strongly encourage applications from a diverse candidate pool. We are open to discussions around flexibility and flexible working.
As a proud Disability Confident Leader and holder of the Gold Inclusive Employer Standard, disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the job will be given the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities at an interview.
Vehicle Mechanic in Huntingdon employer: Serco Canada Inc
At Serco Canada Inc, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that values innovation and collaboration. Our Birmingham location provides the perfect blend of remote flexibility and access to a vibrant city, while our commitment to employee growth ensures that you will have ample opportunities to develop your skills in the ever-evolving tech landscape of the Defence sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Vehicle Mechanic in Huntingdon
✨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 Vehicle Mechanic in Huntingdon
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 Serco Canada Inc'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 Serco Canada Inc. 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 Serco Canada Inc
✨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 Serco Canada Inc.