At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Trainee Vehicle Mechanic programme and gain hands-on experience in vehicle maintenance.
- Company: The AA, a leading automotive services provider with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 23 days leave, free breakdown membership, and discounts.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace valuing diversity and offering excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with expert training and real-world experience in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Some vehicle maintenance experience and a full driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 33936 - 44184 £ per year.
This is the job
Location: Field Based - Northampton
Employment Type: Full time, permanent
Salary: £33,936 (based on an average 40 hour working week)
On Target Earnings: Top performers can earn upwards of OTE £44,000
Start Date: 13th of July 2026
Start your journey today - join the AA. Join our AA Trainee Vehicle Mechanic development programme and we'll fine tune your expertise with ongoing support and training. If you've got the drive to succeed, we want to hear from you.
Programme Overview
- Duration: 18-month journey with workshops led by in-house training experts
- Mentorship: Paired with a seasoned patrol expert for one-on-one guidance
- Real-World Experience: Practical on-the-job experience
- Certification: IMI and EV certifications
- Work arrangement: Starting and finishing work on your driveway; sign-on locations available for discussion
- Standby hours: Choose yearly standby hour preferences
- Provided: Van, full uniform, boots, and equipment
What do I need?
- Some experience in vehicle maintenance and repair and customer service
- Full category B driving licence with 6 points or less; BE (towing) can be funded if not held
- Willingness to work shifts, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays
Examples of roles you may be doing currently:
- MOT Tester
- Panel Beater
- Fast Fit Mechanic
- Roadside Technician (e.g., Tyre)
- Apprentice - 2nd year complete (Level 2)
- Marine Mechanic
- Railway Worker
- HGV/RO Driver
- Ex-Military Personnel
- Agricultural Mechanic
- Motorbike Mechanic
- Aerospace Technician
- Vintage Car Restorer
What will I be doing?
As a valued member of The AA team, you'll have access to a range of benefits including:
- 23 days annual leave plus bank holidays + holiday buying scheme
- Workplace pension scheme with up to 7% employer contribution
- Free AA breakdown membership from Day 1 plus 50% discount for family and friends
- Discounts on AA products including car and home insurance
- Employee discount scheme with car salary sacrifice options and other discounts
- Company funded life assurance
- Industry-leading training and opportunities for progression
- Dedicated Employee Assistance Programme and 24/7 remote GP service
- Plus, so much more!
We're an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from everyone. The AA values diversity and the difference this brings to our culture and customers. We actively seek people from diverse backgrounds to join us and become part of an inclusive company where you can be yourself and feel like you belong. We complete several pre-employment checks including work reference, credit and criminal record checks. We may close the vacancy sooner than the advertised date if we receive a high volume of applications. Please apply now if you are interested.
Trainee Vehicle Mechanic - Northampton employer: The Automobile Association
The AA is an exceptional employer, offering a comprehensive Trainee Vehicle Mechanic development programme that combines hands-on experience with expert mentorship. Located in Northampton, employees benefit from a supportive work culture, competitive salary, and extensive training opportunities, including IMI and EV certifications, all while enjoying a range of perks such as generous annual leave, workplace pension contributions, and discounts on AA products. Join us to kickstart your career in a diverse and inclusive environment where you can truly thrive.
Contact Details:
The Automobile Association Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Vehicle Mechanic - Northampton
✨Get Hands-On at Local Events
Dive into local trade fairs or community workshops where you can meet seasoned professionals. It’s a great way to shake hands, ask questions, and even catch the eye of potential employers while showing off your eagerness to learn!
✨Connect with Industry Apprenticeship Schemes
Look for apprenticeship programmes in your area, as many skilled-trades companies, like those in construction or engineering, seek trainees directly through these channels. This is often a foot-in-the-door opportunity, and they value your willingness to jump in!
✨Use Social Media to Showcase Your Skills
Create a platform on social media where you can share short videos or posts about your projects or any related DIY tasks you’ve tackled. It’s a fun way to demonstrate your passion and can attract the attention of local businesses like The Automobile Association looking for fresh talent.
✨Don’t Overlook Informal Networking
Chatting with friends, family, or acquaintances can sometimes lead to hidden opportunities. Let them know you’re on the hunt for a trainee role in skilled trades, and you might stumble upon a lead you’d never have found elsewhere!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Vehicle Mechanic - Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills!:When applying for a trainee position in skilled trades, make sure to highlight any relevant hands-on experience you've got, even if it’s just from school or hobbies. We want to see how you've used tools and techniques related to the trade, so don’t be shy about mentioning those specific skills!
Let Your Passion Shine Through:In your cover letter, share your genuine interest in the skilled trade you're applying for. Talk about why you chose this path and what excites you about working with The Automobile Association. Passion can go a long way, especially as a trainee where you're eager to learn and grow!
Certificates Matter!:If you have any certifications relevant to the skilled trades, like health and safety or specific training courses, definitely include them with your application. They can set you apart and show that you’re committed to your professional development right from the start.
Tidy Up That CV:Keep your CV clear and easy to read. Focus on your education, any hands-on experience, and relevant projects or apprenticeships. Remember to format it nicely and keep it to one page if possible, as we’ll appreciate a concise overview that gets straight to the point!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Automobile Association
✨Get Your Tools Ready
Think about the specific tools or techniques you'll be using in the skilled trades. If you're applying for a trainee role, you might not need to be a master, but showing that you’ve got basic knowledge of the tools and materials relevant to the job will set you apart. Maybe even bring along some photos or examples of your work if you've had any hands-on experience.
✨Know Your Safety Standards
Safety is a big deal in skilled trades, so be prepared to discuss regulations or safety measures specific to your field. They might throw some situational questions at you regarding safety practices, so think about any protocols you’ve learned. Showing you're safety-conscious will make a great impression!
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
During your interview, expect some practical tests or scenario-based questions. Interviewers love to know how you’d solve real-world problems on the job site. Practise explaining your thought process clearly; it demonstrates how you think on your feet—and this is crucial for a trainee role!
✨Show Your Enthusiasm to Learn
As a trainee, showcasing your eagerness to learn is key. Highlight any experience or courses you’ve done related to the trades, even if informal. Talk about why you’re passionate about this line of work—your motivation will come across clearly and convince them you’re the right fit for the team at The Automobile Association.
