At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspire and train the next generation of automotive experts through engaging sessions.
- Company: Join Thatcham Research, a leader in automotive training and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, health perks, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Full training provided; dynamic role with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping future professionals in the automotive repair sector.
- Qualifications: Hands-on experience in vehicle body repair and a passion for teaching.
The predicted salary is between 46250 - 46250 £ per year.
Are you an experienced Vehicle Damage Assessor (VDA) ready to take your career in a new direction? At Thatcham Research, we’re looking for a passionate and knowledgeable professional to join our Academy team as an Automotive Technical Trainer - helping shape the next generation of automotive experts and raising standards across the industry.
This is an exciting opportunity to step away from day-to-day assessments and into a role where you’ll develop, inspire and support learners across the VDA discipline. You’ll design and deliver engaging training programmes, assess competency, and ensure learners are equipped with the technical expertise and confidence to succeed in the automotive repair sector. You’ll work with a range of learners, from apprentices through to experienced professionals, and play a key role in improving capability across the industry.
You don’t need previous experience in teaching or training to be considered for this role as full training and support will be provided. However, you will need hands‑on experience in the vehicle body repair sector.
Responsibilities- Deliver classroom, virtual/online and practical VDA training sessions
- Bring technical concepts to life in a clear, engaging and accessible way
- Adapt your style to suit different learners – from beginners to experienced assessors
- Facilitate hands‑on workshops and real‑world assessment scenarios
- Assess learners through practical and theory‑based methods against agreed standards
- Provide constructive, supportive feedback to help learners grow
- Monitor progress and ensure high‑quality learning outcomes
- Continuously evaluate training effectiveness using feedback and results
- Maintain high standards aligned with industry and awarding body requirements (including OFSTED)
- Ensure all training materials and delivery approaches remain consistent and high‑quality
- Provide a safe, inclusive and supportive learning environment
- Take responsibility for learner welfare and safeguarding, particularly for young and vulnerable learners
We’re keen to hear from experienced VDA professionals who are passionate about sharing their knowledge.
- Previous experience in automotive vehicle repair, specialising in Vehicle Damage Assessment
- Hold (or able to work towards) Level 3/4 qualifications in your specialist area
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
- Ability to simplify complex technical concepts for different audiences
- A commitment to safe working practices within an automotive environment
- A passion for developing others and supporting learning
- The ability to adapt your approach to suit different learners
- An interest in continuous improvement and innovation in training
Training experience is helpful but not essential. Required: Enhanced DBS check on appointment.
Benefits- Salary – Circa £46,250 (negotiable based on skills & experience).
- 10% non‑contributory pension
- 29 days holiday (inclusive of Christmas shutdown) + public holidays
- Group Life Assurance (equal to 4× basic salary)
- Group Income Protection (after 6 months’ service)
- Salary Sacrifice schemes (cycle to work, home & tech scheme)
- Enhanced and competitive parental leave for all parents, regardless of gender or family structure
- Moneyhealth’s Financial Coaching & Wellbeing Platform
- Health Cash Plan (cash back on eligible medical treatments)
- Benenden Health Care (opt‑in benefit)
- Reward & Recognition Programme
- Discounted gym membership
- Sports & Social club
- Payroll charitable giving
- Subsidised on‑site restaurant
- Free on‑site parking
Location: Berkshire (on‑site). Working hours: Monday‑Thursday 8:30 – 16:45, Friday 8:30 – 16:00. All applicants must have Right to Work in the UK.
Automotive Technical Trainer (VDA) employer: Thatcham Research
Thatcham Research is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can make a real impact in the automotive industry. With a strong focus on employee development, you will receive comprehensive training and support to excel as an Automotive Technical Trainer, while enjoying competitive benefits such as a generous pension scheme, extensive holiday allowance, and a commitment to your wellbeing. Located in Berkshire, our inclusive culture fosters collaboration and innovation, making it an ideal place for passionate professionals to thrive and inspire the next generation of automotive experts.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Automotive Technical Trainer (VDA)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the automotive industry and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or be able to refer you to a hiring manager.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your hands dirty! Attend workshops, seminars, or industry events related to Vehicle Damage Assessment. This not only boosts your knowledge but also puts you in front of potential employers who value real-world experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your work in vehicle body repair and any training you've done. This can really set you apart when you're chatting with hiring managers or during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you land that Automotive Technical Trainer role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and makes it easier for us to find your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Automotive Technical Trainer (VDA)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the automotive industry shine through. We want to see your passion for training and developing others, so share any experiences that highlight this!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Automotive Technical Trainer role. Highlight your hands-on experience in vehicle body repair and any relevant qualifications. We love seeing how your background aligns with what we’re looking for!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to explain your skills and experiences. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at Thatcham Research!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thatcham Research
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your Vehicle Damage Assessment knowledge. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience in the vehicle body repair sector and how it relates to training others. This will show that you’re not just knowledgeable but also passionate about sharing that knowledge.
✨Engage with Your Audience
Since you'll be training a variety of learners, think about how you can adapt your communication style. Prepare examples of how you've simplified complex concepts in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to connect with different audiences, from beginners to seasoned professionals.
✨Showcase Your Training Ideas
Even if you don’t have formal training experience, come prepared with ideas for engaging training sessions. Think about how you would deliver practical workshops or assessments. This shows initiative and a genuine interest in developing others, which is key for this role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the training programmes and the Academy team’s goals. This not only shows your enthusiasm for the position but also helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values, especially regarding learner welfare and continuous improvement.
