Level 3 Heavy Vehicle Service and Maintenance Technician

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Duration: 36 months (plus 3 months EPA)

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Heavy Vehicle Service and Maintenance Apprenticeship

Developing the next generation of heavy vehicle technicians

This apprenticeship provides the practical skills, technical knowledge and behaviours needed to succeed as a heavy vehicle service and maintenance technician. Learners develop the expertise to inspect, service and repair heavy vehicles and trailers, helping to keep them safe, efficient and roadworthy through a combination of workplace learning and technical training.

Throughout the programme, learners receive expert training that combines technical knowledge with hands-on experience. From carrying out routine maintenance and replacing components to diagnosing and rectifying complex faults using advanced diagnostic equipment, you'll develop the confidence and expertise needed to work in dealerships, independent workshops, franchises and large fleet operations.

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Topics, units and assessments

Supporting career development and business success

As part of this apprenticeship, learners will develop knowledge and skills in:

1

Health and Safety

Follow health, safety and good housekeeping practices to maintain a safe and efficient automotive working environment.

2

Tools and Equipment

Use hand tools, specialist equipment and workshop resources safely and effectively to carry out maintenance and repair tasks.

3

Vehicle Maintenance

Perform routine inspections, servicing and maintenance activities to keep heavy vehicles operating safely and efficiently.

4

Mechanical Systems

Remove, replace and repair chassis, engine, transmission and driveline components in line with manufacturer and industry requirements.

5

Electrical Systems

Diagnose and rectify faults within heavy vehicle electrical and auxiliary electrical systems using industry standard techniques and equipment.

6

Diagnostics and Inspection

Inspect heavy vehicles to ensure compliance with legal requirements and diagnose faults across engine, vehicle and electrical systems.

Customised training available

Flexible delivery to suit your business or schedule

Career progression

Career progression that drives personal growth and business success

Engineering Supervisor

Engineering supervisors lead maintenance operations, overseeing team members responsible for the servicing, inspection and repair of heavy goods vehicles and trailers. They play a key role in ensuring vehicles remain safe, reliable and compliant with industry regulations while maintaining high operational standards.

Alongside managing resources and maintenance schedules, engineering supervisors support team development, drive continuous improvement and help keep fleet operations running efficiently and effectively.

Workshop Manager

Workshop managers oversee teams of technicians, coordinating workloads, schedules and daily operations to ensure maintenance and repair work is completed safely and efficiently. They are responsible for managing workshop resources, maintaining equipment and supporting the development of their teams.

In fleet and commercial vehicle environments, workshop managers play a critical role in keeping vehicles roadworthy, minimising downtime and ensuring operations run smoothly while meeting safety and compliance requirements.

IRTEC Inspector

An IRTEC inspector is a qualified technician responsible for carrying out detailed inspections and safety checks on commercial vehicles and trailers. They assess vehicle condition, identify faults and ensure maintenance standards are met to help keep vehicles safe, roadworthy and compliant.

Using their technical expertise, IRTEC inspectors conduct thorough examinations, diagnose issues and verify that vehicles meet industry regulations and safety requirements. Their role is essential in maintaining high standards of compliance, reliability and operational performance across commercial vehicle fleets.

MOT Inspector

An MOT inspector is responsible for carrying out MOT tests to ensure vehicles meet the required road safety and environmental standards. They conduct thorough inspections of key vehicle components, identifying defects and areas that require repair before a vehicle can be certified as roadworthy.

Using their technical knowledge and attention to detail, MOT inspectors help maintain vehicle safety, support legal compliance and keep drivers and road users safe. Their role is essential in ensuring vehicles continue to meet national testing and regulatory requirements.

I'd say I definitely learned more about motor vehicles, which has also taught me skills I can take away from this into other jobs.

Ben, Fleet Maintenance Apprentice

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How training works

Designed to minimise disruption while supporting real-world learning

Off the job training is a critical and important element; it must deliver new skills and knowledge that are directly relevant to the apprenticeship standard and can include:

Teaching of theory via blended delivery methods

Practical training

Work shadowing

Supported learning and time spent writing any assignments/questions.

Expert support for employers

Are you looking for more information on how apprenticeships can benefit your business?

We handle the training, support and compliance so you can focus on your business.

Apprenticeship solutions for employers

Invest in your workforce

Whether you're recruiting new staff, developing existing employees or exploring apprenticeship opportunities for your organisation, discover our Technical Trade apprenticeship programmes.

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