At a Glance
- Tasks: Build and maintain police vehicles, ensuring top quality and safety standards.
- Company: Join West Yorkshire Police's dynamic Vehicle Preparation Unit.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, flexible hours, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and professional development await you.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in frontline policing with your craftsmanship.
- Qualifications: Apprenticeship in fabrication or joinery and strong practical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 33602 - 35772 £ per year.
Vehicle Body Builder – Vehicle Preparation Unit (VPU)
Salary: £33,602 - £35,772 (Scale 6)
Contract: Permanent, full-time, 37 hours per week
Location: West Yorkshire
Reporting to: Assistant VPU Manager
Looking for a hands‑on role where your craftsmanship directly supports frontline policing? West Yorkshire Police are seeking a skilled and motivated Vehicle Body Builder to join the Transport Directorate’s Vehicle Preparation Unit (VPU). This is an exciting opportunity to work within a highly skilled team, contributing to the preparation and maintenance of a diverse fleet of police and specialist vehicles. Your work will directly support operational policing, helping to deliver a high‑quality, cost‑effective service that enhances public confidence.
Role and Responsibilities
- Building, commissioning and de‑commissioning a wide range of police and specialist vehicles to required quality standards and timescales
- Preparing vehicles in line with specifications, legislation and operational requirements
- Designing, fabricating and installing bespoke builds such as cell vans, dog vehicles, CSI vehicles and other specialist conversions
- Installing prefabricated equipment including cells, dog pods, livery and window film
- Carrying out fabrication repairs efficiently to minimise downtime of operational vehicles
- Working collaboratively with VPU colleagues, managers and end users to develop new vehicle builds and accessories
- Completing all fleet management documentation and maintaining accurate records
- Monitoring and maintaining stock levels of materials such as wood, plastics, steel and aluminium
- Undertaking basic electrical work including pre‑wiring vehicles where required
- Supporting the development of apprentices and colleagues through training and guidance
- Maintaining a clean, safe working environment and complying with COSHH and Health & Safety regulations
- Attending training and development courses (internal and external)
Expectations
- Demonstrate strong practical skills across fabrication, coachbuilding or vehicle body repair
- Work independently from written and verbal instructions with minimal supervision
- Produce consistently high‑quality work in a safe and cost‑effective manner
- Maintain accurate records and complete all required documentation to a high standard
- Work collaboratively within a team and contribute to continuous improvement and innovation
- Maintain excellent housekeeping standards and safe working practices at all times
- Support operational demands, including working at alternative locations when required
Essential Criteria
- Completed apprenticeship or equivalent qualification in fabrication, coachbuilding or joinery
- Level 3 City & Guilds / NVQ / Cert Tech in fabrication/coachbuilding/joinery or equivalent
- Proven experience within a recognised motor vehicle environment (desirable)
- Knowledge and experience of working with materials such as wood, metal, plastic and glazing
- Understanding of COSHH and Health & Safety regulations
- Basic IT skills (e.g. Microsoft Word, Excel)
- Strong organisational skills with attention to detail
- Good communication, numeracy and literacy skills
- Full, current UK/European driving licence (essential)
- Physically capable of undertaking the duties of the role
Benefits / What We Offer
- 27 days annual leave, rising to 32 days after 5 years (plus bank holidays)
- 37‑hour working week (Monday–Friday)
- Generous sick pay scheme
- Overtime opportunities during periods of high workload
- Career pathways (in development)
- Salary sacrifice schemes (including car leasing and Cycle to Work)
- Discounts on Metro Card and Blue Light Card membership
- Learning and development opportunities, including accredited programmes
- Flexible working arrangements and flexi‑time schemes (role dependent)
- Membership of sports and social clubs
- Free membership to the College of Policing
- Access to Trade Unions and the Police Federation
- Attractive pension scheme (West Yorkshire Pension Fund)
The closing date for this vacancy is 2nd August 2026 at 23:55 hours. West Yorkshire Police is committed to improving the diversity of its workforce to better reflect the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all minority groups and individuals who identify with one or more of the protected characteristics as defined by the Equality Act 2010. Applicants should be aware that it is not always possible to carry out adequate vetting checks on persons who have not been resident within the UK for the last ten years. Therefore, where this applies, applicants may be refused because it was not possible to vet them to the appropriate standard.
VT7789- Vehicle Body Builder **External** in Wakefield employer: West Yorkshire Police
West Yorkshire Police is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment where your craftsmanship directly contributes to frontline policing. With generous benefits such as 27 days of annual leave, career development opportunities, and a commitment to employee well-being, you will find meaningful and rewarding employment in a role that enhances public confidence and safety in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land VT7789- Vehicle Body Builder **External** in Wakefield
✨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 VT7789- Vehicle Body Builder **External** in Wakefield
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 West Yorkshire Police'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 West Yorkshire Police. 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 West Yorkshire Police
✨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 West Yorkshire Police.
