Autocare Technicians/Mechanics

Halfords; Byfleet; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive company is looking for an Autocare Technician/Mechanic apprentice in Byfleet. Responsibilities include using diagnostic equipment, performing repairs, and adhering to safety protocols. Candidates should have a Level 1 qualification in Light Vehicle Maintenance and GCSE English and Maths. The role offers a gradual wage increase and comprehensive training. A permanent role is possible after completing the apprenticeship, with varied working hours including potential Saturday shifts.

Benefits

Full tool kit provided

Mentorship during apprenticeship

Employment after successful completion

Qualifications

• Level 1 in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair is desirable.
• GCSE English must be at least grade 4/C.
• GCSE Maths should be at least grade 4/C.

Responsibilities

• Use diagnostic equipment to identify vehicle faults.
• Test parts and systems to ensure they are working correctly.
• Complete legible paperwork for customers and records.

Skills

Enthusiasm and willingness to learn

Teamwork

Strong communication

Customer Service

Attention to detail

Problem-solving skills

Education

Level 1 in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair (desirable)

GCSE English (grade 4/C)

GCSE Maths (grade 4/C)

Tools

Diagnostic equipment

Electronic systems

Automotive parts and products

Job description

Overview

Every day is different within the Service department. As a Autocare Technician/Mechanic apprentice, your duties will include the following.

Responsibilities

• Use diagnostic equipment to identify vehicle faults.
• Test parts and systems to ensure correct working.
• Follow checklists to ensure all critical parts of vehicles are examined.
• Carry out bumper‑to‑bumper overviews, service and inspection.
• Maintain electronic systems, including on‑board entertainment systems.
• Complete legible and accurate paperwork for customers and centre records.
• Maintain a clean and tidy work environment.
• Comply with health and safety procedures in the workplace.
• Prepare the vehicle and working area before work activity, removing or mitigating slip and trip hazards.
• Maintain and restore the work area during and upon completion of activity.
• Store, maintain (including calibration checks), and return tools and equipment to storage.
• Access vehicle technical data to inform inspections and make judgments on wear and serviceability.
• Comply with environmental and sustainability procedures, segregating resources for reuse, recycling, and disposal.
• Apply vehicle safety inspection and routine maintenance procedures using vehicle‑specific data on cars, car‑derived vans or light goods vehicles.
• Select and use tools and equipment, mechanical and electrical measuring tools, and diagnostic equipment.
• Remove, repair and replace vehicle tyre and balance wheel assemblies on cars, car‑derived vans or light goods vehicles.
• Inspect, remove, and replace parts or components in cars, vans or light goods vehicles for steering, suspension, braking, emission, air conditioning, battery and charging, and fluid and filtration systems.
• Apply state‑of‑health condition monitoring tests to high‑voltage batteries and chargers for electrified vehicles.
• Apply four‑wheel geometry checks and adjustments to cars, vans and light goods vehicles.
• Apply safe working practices and procedures to isolate electrified vehicles for maintenance.
• Record vehicle service, maintenance, parts replacement, or repair.
• Apply customer service principles and organisational customer care practices: identify needs, resolve low‑level complaints, make recommendations, process payments and sales.
• Provide quotation of cost and order automotive parts, products and consumables applicable to the vehicle.
• Apply procedures for stock and parts storage, including ordering, checking and stock rotation.
• Apply organisational sales processes: show and tell, features and benefits, consultative selling, mini closing and closing.
• Apply team‑working principles.
• Comply with equity, diversity and inclusion guidance.
• Communicate verbally with customers, suppliers and colleagues.
• Communicate in writing with internal and external customers, colleagues and managers.
• Use information and digital technology systems, complying with GDPR and cyber security.
• Complete and record learning and development activities.
• Apply procedures to check and replace fluids and filtration parts.

Training Schedule

Training will be delivered using a combination of virtual classroom remote learning and face‑to‑face block release weeks at our state‑of‑the‑art training centre. Successful applicants are required to travel to a centrally located training facility to complete their apprenticeship training. All training‑related costs, including travel, accommodation and meals, are fully covered as part of the programme.

Certificates and Qualifications Earned

• Level 2 Apprenticeship Standard in Autocare Technician
• Certificate in Automotive Refrigerant Handling
• Level 2 qualification for safe isolation of electric and hybrid vehicles
• Brand‑specific certifications
• Progression towards Level 3 apprenticeship standard in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair

What We Offer

• Block release training
• A full Halfords toolkit, uniform and work boots supplied
• A mentor in your garage to support you through the apprenticeship
• 40‑hour working week if you are under 18, 44 hours if you are over 18
• Permanent role upon successful completion of your apprenticeship
• Continued development and training opportunities with Hybrid/Electric Vehicle and MOT training

Ideal Candidate – Personal Skills

• Enthusiasm and willingness to learn
• Teamwork
• Strong communication
• Customer Service
• Interest in vehicle engineering
• Communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Customer care skills
• Problem‑solving skills
• Team working

Minimum Qualifications

• Level 1 in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair (desirable)
• GCSE English (grade 4/C)
• GCSE Maths (grade 4/C)
• Relevant industry experience and any additional qualifications

Salary and Working Hours

Wage: £15,704 for first year, with potential increase depending on age. Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:30–17:30. Possibility of Saturday work and/or shifts. Working week confirmed on application.

Start Date

Saturday 28 February 2026, duration 2 years.