Halfords Autocentre Harlow - Autocare Technician Apprenticeship

Inspiro Learning; Harlow; On-site; GBP 16,000 - 20,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive training company is looking for an Autocare Technician Apprentice in Harlow, England. This role involves using diagnostic equipment for vehicle repairs, maintaining systems, and ensuring excellent customer service. Ideal candidates should have GCSEs in English and Maths and some experience in the motor industry. The position offers a combination of virtual learning and on-site training with a full toolkit provided. This apprenticeship could lead to permanent employment upon completion.

Benefits

Full Halfords toolkit, uniform, and work boots supplied

Mentorship in the garage

40/44 hour working week based on age

Permanent role post-apprenticeship

Continued development opportunities

Qualifications

• GCSE or equivalent in English and Maths is required.
• Some experience in the motor industry is preferable.
• Level 1 formal training or similar organization experience is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Identify vehicle faults using diagnostic equipment.
• Test parts and systems to ensure they work correctly.
• Maintain a clean and tidy work environment.
• Complete paperwork for customers accurately.

Skills

Logic and problem solving

Attention to detail

Customer service

Enthusiasm and willingness to learn

Teamwork

Strong communication

Interest in vehicle engineering

Education

GCSE grades 9 – 4 (A – C) in English and Maths

Scottish National 5 Grades A – C in English and Maths

Tools

Diagnostic equipment

Service inspection tools

Halfords toolkit

Job description

Overview

The Service department is vital to the success of our business. From right first‑time fixes to delivering excellent customer service, our Autocare Technicians/Mechanics play a pivotal role in delighting our customers and encouraging their continued loyalty.

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 overview, 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.

Training Provided

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 are fully covered, including travel, accommodation, and meals.

Qualifications Received

• 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

Future Prospects

Once your apprenticeship is complete, you will continue your learning journey. Some of our apprentices have gone on to become team leaders and managers within the retail network.

Qualifications Required

GCSE grades 9 – 4 (A – C) or equivalent in English and Maths. In Scotland, applicants must have Scottish National 5 Grades A – C or above in English and Maths.

• Equivalent grades include BTEC first diplomas and certificates, OCR Nationals, Key Skills Level 2, NVQs, Essential Skills (Wales), Functional Skills Level 2, Core Skills (Scotland).

Personal Qualities

Our ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate skills in logic and problem solving. You should be someone who pays attention to detail and is committed to completing this apprenticeship programme.

Experience

We are looking for people who have some experience in the motor industry either with formal training at Level 1 or having worked at or within a similar organisation. You should be passionate about our industry and our brand.

Personal Skills

• Enthusiasm and willingness to learn
• Teamwork
• Strong communication
• Customer service
• Interest in vehicle engineering

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
• A 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

Diversity, Equality and Inclusion

As part of our commitment to Diversity, Equality and Inclusion, all applications are automatically anonymised by our recruitment system. This is with the aim of realising our ambition to have a workforce that is reflective of the community we serve and eliminating unconscious bias, allowing employees to be appointed based on their talent, skills, and experiences regardless of ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.

English and Maths Guidance

English and Maths guidance from the government changed on 11/02/25. This employer wishes to support upskilling in both English and Maths by exception and as such the entry grade criteria as advertised still applies.

Things to Consider

Latest information on the Apprentice National Minimum Wage can be found at https://www.gov.uk/become-apprentice/pay-and-conditions.

Assessment Centre

An assessment centre will be held at a local location towards the end of January 2026 with work trial dates to then be confirmed following the assessment day. We reserve the right to close the advert early if we receive a sufficient number of applications. Candidates are advised to submit their applications as early as possible to avoid disappointment.