Job Description:

Vehicle Technician – Trainee / Development Role About the Role

We are looking for a Vehicle Technician – Trainee / Development to join a team supporting the assembly, integration and refurbishment of armoured and specialist vehicles.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with practical mechanical experience who is looking to develop their skills and progress into a full Vehicle Technician position.

Working alongside experienced technicians and under the guidance of Team Leaders, you will carry out a range of defined mechanical and vehicle preparation activities, following Manufacturing Instructions (MIs), standard operating procedures and quality requirements.

You will work across a variety of projects, supporting both new-build and refurbishment programmes. There may also be occasional opportunities to travel and work overseas for short periods in support of NP Aerospace projects and customers.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and fit simple mechanical sub-assemblies to vehicle platforms using Manufacturing Instructions, job packs and basic drawings.
• Carry out vehicle preparation activities, including removing trims, stripping base vehicle equipment, sanding internal surfaces and cleaning work areas.
• Assist with the integration of new parts and equipment within production cells, including bolting, fastening and the basic use of lifting equipment under supervision.
• Carry out visual inspections of parts and assemblies, escalating defects, shortages or documentation issues to the Team Leader.
• Safely and correctly use a range of hand tools, including spanners and torque tools.
• Maintain 5S standards within the work area, ensuring good levels of cleanliness, organisation and labelling.
• Follow all Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) procedures and correctly use required PPE.
• Accurately complete build records, checklists and basic quality documentation.
• Work flexibly across different production cells and projects as required, supporting both new-build and refurbishment activities.
• Work closely with experienced technicians and colleagues, seeking guidance and clarification where required.

About You

We are looking for someone who is practical, reliable and keen to develop a career within vehicle engineering and manufacturing.

Essential Experience & Knowledge

• Practical experience in a hands-on mechanical environment, such as automotive, HGV, plant, aerospace, rail, military/forces or a similar industry.
• A basic understanding of mechanical tools, fixings, fasteners and workshop safety.
• Ability to follow written instructions, diagrams and Manufacturing Instructions accurately.
• Ability to recognise when work does not match the required instructions or specification and raise this with the appropriate person.
• A willingness to learn new skills and develop towards a full Vehicle Technician role.

Desirable Qualifications / Experience

• Experience of sub-assembly work within a relevant discipline, such as:
  • Bus and Coach Engineering & Maintenance
  • Vehicle Fitting
  • Autocare
  • Mechanical Manufacturing
  • Vehicle Engineering
• Relevant vocational qualification or equivalent practical experience/prior learning.

What We're Looking For

You will demonstrate:

• Attention to detail – taking care when handling components and completing work to the required standard.
• A positive, can-do attitude – willing to learn, take instruction and ask for help when needed.
• Teamwork – able to work effectively as part of a small team and communicate clearly with colleagues.
• Safety awareness – committed to following safe working practices and HSE requirements.
• Reliability and flexibility – willing to support different projects and production areas as required.

Career Development

This is an entry and development opportunity designed for candidates who want to build a long-term career in specialist vehicle engineering.

You will receive hands-on experience working alongside experienced technicians, developing your mechanical skills and knowledge with the aim of progressing into a Vehicle Technician position.