Apprentice Vehicle Body Technician

At Arriva, our Engineering Teams keep our buses moving and the communities we serve connected. Whether that's getting children to school or commuters to work. As an Apprentice Vehicle Damage Technician, you will be trained to assess vehicle damage, make decisions on whether it’s repairable, remove and repair damaged panels, to keep our buses running at their very best.  You will be based at our Darlington depot, working alongside an experienced team who will support and mentor you along the way. 

This 4-year programme is working towards a Vehicle Damage Panel Technician Level 3 qualification with additional bus-specific modules. The course runs for 140 weeks with 5-day training blocks every 7-weeks which take place at our partner’s state-of-the-art workshop in Glasgow. The course will give you skills and experience across all core elements of vehicle body repair including;  

• Motor vehicle chassis and body alignment, e.g. underbody measurement and its impact on suspension and steering geometry 

• Vehicle body types, panel identification, safety systems, materials and alternative fuel 

• Use of Body Panel Repair tools, equipment and devices used in the process e.g. alignment jigs, resistance welding equipment, riveting and bonding tools 

• Removal and replacement of body panels and associated parts e.g. mechanically fixed components, chemically fixed components 

• Interpretation of technical data for joining techniques and replacement panels 

• Health & Safety and compliance requirements of the bodyshop industry 

This is a programme designed for people at every stage in life. It could be your first venture into work after finishing school, or the exciting career move you’ve been looking for. Whatever your motivation, we’re looking for those with an inquisitive mindset who love solving problems and don’t mind getting their hands dirty.

As an apprentice with us the starting salary will is £8.00 per hour in your first year if you are under 18, £10.85 if you are 18 to 20 or £12.71 if you are 21 and over rising in line with national minimum wage and progression.

Together, we strive to make travelling by bus the best choice for everyone. With our doors open to all, you’ll have the chance to build a fulfilling career with us, one where you can explore your passions, aspirations and realise your full potential. As you progress, you'll have the opportunity to earn a competitive salary, and we'll be there to support you every step of the way. 

Join us and be at the forefront of revolutionising bus travel. You'll be a vital part of something big – by connecting communities, promoting sustainable travel, and contributing to a better tomorrow. You'll also gain invaluable skills and knowledge that will stay with you for a lifetime.