Service Technician Apprenticeship

Employer: Rates
Location: Grays, Essex

Rates Ford Essex are looking for a motivated individual to start their career as a Level 3 Service Technician Apprentice, completing an IMI-approved apprenticeship.

This programme combines paid employment with nationally recognised IMI training, giving you hands-on experience and the technical skills needed to become a qualified Service Technician. Working alongside experienced Ford technicians, you will gain expertise in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining Ford vehicles while developing excellent customer service skills.

This opportunity is ideal for anyone passionate about mechanics, problem-solving, and building a long-term career in the automotive industry.

 Key Responsibilities

• Diagnose, repair, and maintain mechanical and electrical vehicle systems
• Carry out servicing, inspections, and maintenance tasks
• Support fault-finding using diagnostic tools and equipment
• Work safely and follow dealership health & safety procedures
• Record work completed, parts used, and service activity accurately
• Attend all required IMI training and assessments
• Work as part of a team to deliver high-quality service and customer satisfaction

 Working Week

• 40 hours per week, typically Monday to Friday
• Normal working hours: 8:30am – 5:30pm, though this may vary depending on the dealership

Approximately 20% of your working week will be dedicated to Off-the-Job (OTJ) learning, including online learning, classroom sessions, and workshop training.

 IMI Training & Time Away From Home

• Apprentices are employed directly by Rates
• Training includes block release, requiring travel and overnight stays away from home
• Training is delivered at The Henry Ford Academy

Support includes:

• Face-to-face technical sessions
• Virtual classrooms and e-learning
• Workplace mentoring and coaching

 Qualification

• IMI Level 3 Service Technician Apprenticeship
• Covers both technical knowledge and workplace competence
• Completion results in a nationally recognised IMI qualification and a clear route to becoming a fully qualified Service Technician

 Salary

All apprentices receive at least the Apprenticeship Minimum Wage, with opportunities for progression as skills develop.
🔗 https://www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates

 Entry Requirements

• Aged 16+
• GCSE (or equivalent) A–C / 9–4 in Maths and English (Predicted grades are accepted, provided the final results meet the required standards)
• Strong interest in servicing and repairing vehicles, including petrol, diesel, hybrid, and electric
• Good problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Willingness to travel and stay away from home for training
• Basic IT skills
• Working towards or holding a valid driving licence

About Calex UK

Calex UK is the official apprenticeship recruitment and training partner to Ford in the UK. They deliver high-quality, employer-led apprenticeship programmes aligned to IMI standards.

Barriers to learning can be caused by many different difficulties including learning, physical, social, emotional, and mental health, as well as language and communication difficulties. Calex UK is an inclusive and supportive provider, with a dedicated team that will provide advice and guidance to all learners and to assess any reasonable adjustments required. Calex UK is committed to actively promoting equality of opportunity to ensure that all learners reach their full learning potential and achieve success during their learning journey. If you require any adjustments to access the application process or to discuss this in more detail, please contact us.

 Recruitment Process

• Applications are assessed against entry and qualification requirements
• Suitable applicants will receive further information by email
• If you do not hear back within 5 working days, please assume your application has been unsuccessful

Applicants must provide evidence of qualifications (GCSEs, Functional Skills). Please note that we are unable to accept any documents other than official certificates.

For support, adjustments, or application queries, please contact:
📧 apprenticeships@calexuk.com