Trainee Automotive Mechanic / Service Technician – Reading

Tesla Motors Ltd; Reading; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive company in the UK is seeking a Service Technician Trainee to join their 24-month training programme. This opportunity provides hands-on training in vehicle maintenance and repair, and requires a strong willingness to learn. Candidates should have practical experience with tools and a UK or EU driving license. This role entails supporting the service operation and following safety protocols. Successful trainees will have the opportunity to apply for full-time roles upon completion.

Qualifications

• Experience with tools, diagnostics, or repairs necessary.
• Full UK or EU Driving Licence required by start date.
• Must be eager to embrace a fast-paced training programme.

Responsibilities

• Perform basic inspections, repairs, and maintenance of vehicles.
• Follow safety protocols and maintain professionalism.
• Handle multiple priorities and deadlines effectively.

Skills

Prior experience with tools

Excellent written and verbal communication

Problem-solving abilities

Multitasking

Education

NVQ/IMI diploma in vehicle maintenance (desirable)

Job description

Overview

Start Date: 1st February 2026

Duration: 24 months

Time Type: Full-Time (shift based - including weekend working)

Here at Tesla, our technicians are the backbone of our Service operation. As the newest member of Tesla’s flagship Service Technician Traineeship Programme, you’ll play a key part in supporting us in our mission ‘to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy’ and forming our next generation of Automotive Service Technicians. We create some of the most innovative vehicles ever made, and as a Service Technician Trainee, you’ll help ensure these vehicles are repaired & maintained to a high standard for our customers.

Whether you’re looking for an alternative to further education, just graduated, or simply wanting a change of career that better combines your love of technology & practical repairs, this is a fantastic opportunity to receive expert career training & mentorship from service industry professionals who are passionate about helping you succeed every step of the way.

We are currently offering Service Technician Trainee vacancies across our following UK & Ireland locations. As our Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) team is growing, we\'re excited to announce select locations will specialize in this business area.

• London: Heathrow, Dartford, Park Royal, Tottenham
• Home County: Reading (CPO), Milton Keynes, Guildford
• Midlands: Longbridge (CPO), Wolverhampton (CPO & Service), Nottingham, Solihull, Lincoln
• North: Leeds, Trafford (CPO), Manchester
• South: Southampton (CPO), Gatwick
• East: Cambridge, Chelmsford
• Ireland: Cork, Dublin

During this 24-month training programme you’ll receive world class training from Tesla technical trainers who are experts in their field. A strong emphasis on practical skills and on-the-job training will set the foundation of your career as a Tesla Technician. All programme training will be hosted from our dedicated training facilities in Heathrow and/or Manchester.

This programme has a strong focus on potential rather than academic achievement. For this reason, please note the recruitment process for this programme will only consist of 2 stages; a short telephone screening call with a Tesla Recruiter, and an in-person group assessment session (hosted at select locations).

Responsibilities

• Learn and understand how to perform basic inspections, repairs & maintenance of Tesla vehicles
• Always follow safety protocols & maintain professionalism
• Learn effectively & efficiently throughout a fast-paced hybrid training schedule
• Effectively handle multiple priorities, workload, and deadlines
• Pass the mid-point & end-point programme assessments in order to graduate from the programme

Whilst this format may be subject to change dependent on business needs, you can expect to learn technical modules such as: Chassis, Body, Glazing, Electrical, Infotainment, Driver Assistance Systems, Drivetrain, Thermal Systems, Vehicle inspection and Service. As part of our dedicated ‘enrichment weeks’ you’ll also have the chance to experience some of our other key Tesla functions across the business; these opportunities are designed to broaden your skillset & experience even further beyond the core programme.

Your journey doesn’t end with the Traineeship. Working alongside our people-focused leadership team, subject to your performance & progression during the programme, you’ll have the opportunity to map out your potential future career trajectory within Tesla Service. Upon completion of the Traineeship, you’ll be given the opportunity to apply for any available full-time Tesla Service Technician roles that align with your strengths and aspirations.

Qualifications

• Prior experience with tools, diagnostics, or repair processes - whether through formal education, professional work experience or personal projects.
• Whilst an NVQ/IMI diploma in vehicle maintenance is desirable, we also welcome candidates with practical know-how and a willingness to learn on the job.
• Holding a Full UK or EU Driving Licence for at least 1 year by the time of start date
• Eager to embrace a fast-paced hands-on training programme with unyielding enthusiasm
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Possess a ‘safety first’ attitude
• An excellent multi-tasker with proven problem-solving abilities
• Ability to maintain professionalism and always represent Tesla in a positive manner
• Willingness to travel to a different Tesla office location or events when required
• Willingness to work in shifts to support your team, which may include weekends, morning and evening shifts
• Not be in full-time education when the programme starts