Autocare Technicians/Mechanics

Halfords; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive service provider in the United Kingdom is seeking an enthusiastic Autocare Technician/Mechanic Apprentice. This role offers a comprehensive training program that includes both remote learning and hands-on experience in vehicle maintenance and repair. Ideal candidates should have a keen interest in the automotive industry, possess good communication skills, and be committed to completing the apprenticeship program. The position also promises a permanent role upon successful completion, with continuous training opportunities.

Benefits

A full Halfords toolkit, uniform, and work boots supplied

Block-release training schedule

Mentorship during apprenticeship

40-hour week if under 18, 44 hours if over 18

Qualifications

• Level 1 Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair is desirable.
• GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C.
• Enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
• Interest in vehicle engineering.

Responsibilities

• Use diagnostic equipment to identify vehicle faults.
• Maintain a clean and tidy work environment.
• Prepare the vehicle for service activities.
• Record vehicle service maintenance accurately.
• Provide customer care and quotations.

Skills

Attention to detail

Strong communication skills

Teamwork

Customer-care focus

Problem-solving skills

Education

GCSE English (grade 4 / C)

GCSE Maths (grade 4 / C)

Level 1 Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair

Job description

Autocare Technician / Mechanic Apprentice

Halfords is looking for an enthusiastic, hardworking individual to join our team as an Autocare Technician/Mechanic Apprentice. You will work across our service department, gaining a thorough technical foundation in routine servicing, complex diagnostics and repairs for both traditional and electrified vehicles.

Overview

You will be part of a dynamic garage split across half‑hour blocks of on‑site training and remote learning delivered from a state‑of‑the‑art training centre. All travel, accommodation and meals are fully covered as part of the apprenticeship programme.

Responsibilities

• Use diagnostic equipment to identify vehicle faults and test parts and systems for correct working.
• Follow checklists to ensure all critical vehicle components are examined and record legible, accurate paperwork for customers and centre records.
• Maintain a clean, tidy work environment and implement health & safety procedures in accordance with regulations and guidance.
• Prepare the vehicle and working area before each activity, removing or mitigating slip and trip hazards.
• Store, calibrate and return tools and equipment to storage, ensuring they are returned in good condition.
• Access vehicle technical data to inform inspections and make judgements on wear and serviceability.
• Apply vehicle safety inspection and routine maintenance procedures using vehicle‑specific data for cars, light goods vehicles and vans.
• Remove, repair and replace vehicle tyres, balance wheel assemblies and component assemblies in steering, suspension, braking, emissions, air conditioning, battery and charging, 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.
• Record vehicle service maintenance, parts replacement or repair in the vehicle record system.
• Apply customer service principles and organisational customer care practices, making recommendations to customers based on inspection results.
• Provide quotations, order automotive parts and consumables applicable to the vehicle.
• Apply procedures for stock and parts storage, including ordering, checking and stock rotation.
• Sell automotive products and services using consultative selling, mini‑closing and closing techniques.
• Communicate verbally with customers, suppliers and colleagues, and write clearly for internal and external audiences.
• Use information and digital technology systems, complying with GDPR and cyber‑security policies.
• Complete and record learning and development activities, checking and replacing fluids and filtration parts when required.

Qualifications

• Level 1 Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair is desirable.
• GCSE English (grade 4 / C) and GCSE Maths (grade 4 / C).
• Enthusiasm and willingness to learn, teamwork and strong communication skills.
• Attention to detail, organisational skills and customer‑care focus.
• Interest in vehicle engineering and a passion for the automotive industry.

Training and Development

Training will be delivered through a combination of virtual classroom remote learning and face‑to‑face block‑release weeks at our training centre. Successful applicants will travel to the training facility, where they will receive full apprenticeship qualifications and brand certifications. Upon completing the apprenticeship you will receive:

• 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 schedule
• 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 or 44 hours per week 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

• Enthusiastic and hardworking, passionate about the automotive industry
• Strong communication skills – verbal and written
• Team‑working mindset and customer‑service focus
• Attention to detail, organisation and problem‑solving skills
• Commitment to completing the apprenticeship programme and progressing in a long‑term career

All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.