Apprentice Vehicle Technician - Wimborne, Dorset
Job Description
Job summary
The Apprentice Automotive Technician will undertake a Level 3 apprenticeship programme while supporting the maintenance and repair of the Trust's fleet vehicles and associated equipment under supervision.
Working within the Fleet/Operations function, the post holder will assist in delivering safe, compliant, and effective vehicle maintenance in line with legislative requirements, Trust policies, and manufacturer guidelines. The role focuses on developing the technical skills, knowledge, and behaviours required of a qualified automotive technician, while contributing to maximising vehicle availability and minimising operational downtime.
The post holder will work in a structured learning environment, combining practical workshop experience with formal technical training, and will be expected to demonstrate a strong commitment to safety, professionalism, and continuous development.
On successful completion of the apprenticeship, and subject to appointment into a substantive Vehicle Technician role, the post holder will be expected to participate in a 7-day service operating model, including weekend working as required to support operational fleet availability. This requirement is reflected within the overall salary and remuneration package applicable to substantive roles.
Main duties of the job
In this role you will be required to support the delivery of routine maintenance, servicing, and repair of Trust fleet vehicles and equipment in line with manufacturer standards and regulatory requirements and assisting in carrying out safety inspections.
Develop competency in fault finding across mechanical, electrical, electronic, and hydraulic systems under supervision and assist with minor vehicle body repairs as required.
You will support with the maintenance and repair of specialist equipment, including patient handling equipment such as stretchers and tracked carry chairs.
You will be expected to keep accurate record service, repair, and inspection data within Fleet management systems and other required databases in a timely manner.
Along side this you will attend and successfully complete all required apprenticeship training, including attendance at technical college and associated assessments.
About us
Working for us is an experience like no other. We provide emergency and urgent care, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, operating across the largest ambulance region in England and responding to an average of 2,650 incidents every day.
We remain committed to ensuring that we provide the best possible care for all our patients, which is reflected in our new five-year strategy which has continually improving patient care at its very core.
If you embody our values of one team, compassionate and innovative and are looking to make a real difference to peoples' lives, then we would love to hear from you.
In return we will equip you with the skills and resources you need to thrive in your role.
You will have opportunities to progress to roles across the Trust and enjoy continuous professional development.
Benefits
- Competitive NHS salary
- A standard working week of 37.5 hours
- Holiday entitlements of 27 days per year, plus general and public holidays, rising to 29 days after 5 years and 33 days after 10 years
- Pay enhancements for out of hours, shift and overtime working
- Generous Pension Scheme
- Career and salary progression
- Car leasing scheme (this is subject to your pay not falling below the National Living Wage)
- Free parking across Trust sites
- Staff networks
- Wide range of discounts from various organisations across the UK
Job responsibilities
The post holder will also be expected to develop and maintain the skills required to support the Trusts transition to low and zero-emission technologies, including electric vehicle (EV) systems, ensuring ongoing competence in emerging vehicle technologies where applicable to a substantive technician role.
For further information about this role please see the attached job description and person specification.
Alternative formats of our vacancies are available upon request to [email protected] . Accessibility statement available upon request.
Apprenticeship Video: https://youtu.be/-OPMCc-R-dM?si=5g75rHsUw7fSOknT
Interviews to be held week commencing 27 July 2026
Right to work / Certificate of sponsorship
This role does not meet the criteria for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current Home Office regulations. You must have the existing right to work in the UK to be considered for this position.
For further information on visa sponsorship and eligibility, please refer to the UK Government guidance on Skilled Worker visas: www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
Person Specification
Education and Qualifications
Essential
- GCSE Maths and English Language grade C/4 or equivalent
Desirable
- Current clean driving licence
Skills, Knowledge and Ability
Essential
- Basic IT literacy
- Interest in mechanical and vehicle systems
Desirable
- Exposure to vehicle maintenance, engineering, or practical mechanical work
- Experience using tools/equipment safely
Aptitude and personal characteristics
Essential
- Excellent practical skills
- To be able to follow written and verbal instructions
Desirable
- Ability to problem solve
Employer details
Employer name
South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust
Address
Vehicle Workshops
34 Haviland Road,
Wimborne
BH21 7RQ
United Kingdom