2026 Vehicle Mechanic Advanced Apprenticeship, National Grid Energy Distribution (Bodmin)

National Grid; Bodmin; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading energy distribution company in Bodmin is offering an Advanced Apprenticeship for Vehicle Mechanics. This full-time program includes hands-on training, college attendance, and a Level 3 Qualification. Candidates must be 18+ by September 2026 with GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science. The program provides a competitive salary progression, with benefits including annual leave and a pension scheme.

Benefits

23 days annual leave

Competitive pension scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Protective clothing and safety equipment

Qualifications

• Applicants must be at least 18 years of age by the start date of the programme.
• Must have basic English, Maths, and Science qualifications.

Responsibilities

• Gaining hands-on experience in vehicle repair and maintenance.
• Preparing vehicles for annual testing and roadworthiness.
• Performing diagnostic tasks and attending breakdowns.

Skills

Communication skills

Safety awareness

Resilience

Curious problem solving

Education

GCSE English at Grade A*-C/9-4 or Level 2 Functional/Key Skills English

GCSE Mathematics at Grade A*-C/9-4 or Level 2 Functional/Key Skills Maths

GCSE Science at Grade A*-C/9-4 or BTEC Science Level 2 equivalent

Two other GCSEs A*-C/9-4 or Level 2 qualifications in any subject

Job description

Overview

2026 Vehicle Mechanic Advanced Apprenticeship, National Grid Energy Distribution (Bodmin).

Our Vehicle Mechanic Apprenticeship Programme takes approximately 3.5 years to complete. During this time, you’ll earn while you learn, developing the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed to become a qualified Vehicle Mechanic. Your training will include:

• On-the-job experience at one of our Fleet workshops, working alongside experienced and qualified Mechanics.
• Automotive Technical college attendance, including either weekly college day release or block release study periods throughout the year, plus in-house training and development at one of NGED’s internal training centres.
• Achievement of a Level 3 Qualification in Light Vehicle Mechanics.

A vehicle Mechanic uses their mechanical skills and knowledge to ensure that our fleet is operational 24/7 – 365, enabling our teams to deliver a service to the communities and customers we serve. You will be responsible for safety, ensuring legal compliance and delivering it all cost-effectively.

As part of your apprenticeship, you’ll gain hands-on experience across a wide range of tasks including the repair and maintenance of our diverse fleet of vehicles, plant, and ancillary equipment.

What You’ll Be Involved In

• Electric and Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles
• Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs)
• Cranes, Loaders, Generators, and Trailers
• Preparing and presenting vehicles for annual testing to ensure roadworthiness and compliance
• Road testing, fault diagnosis, and repairs using the latest diagnostic tools and technologies
• Attending breakdowns, including the recovery of broken down or accident-damaged vehicles
• Fabrication and modification of vehicles, including welding and other mechanical techniques

What You’ll Need

• Excellent communication skills; the ability to interact with customers, colleagues, and internal stakeholders.
• Safety awareness and the ability to follow safety instructions and wear protective equipment.
• Resilience, willingness to learn, genuine passion for your career, and commitment to studying. Curious problem solvers thrive here.
• Applicants must be at least 18 years of age by the start date of the programme (1 September 2026).

Our minimum entry criteria (held or predicted):

• GCSE English at Grade A*-C/9-4 or Level 2 Functional/Key Skills English
• GCSE Mathematics at Grade A*-C/9-4 or Level 2 Functional/Key Skills Maths
• GCSE Science at Grade A*-C/9-4 or BTEC Science Level 2 equivalent
• Two other GCSEs A*-C/9-4 or Level 2 qualifications in any subject

If offered a position, you will be required to complete a basic DBS check showing any unspent convictions or conditional cautions. Start date September 2026. Note: annual leave cannot be taken during the first 12 weeks of training.

Please only submit one application. We will consider suitability across locations during the process; multiple applications will not be considered.

What You’ll Get

Joining the UK’s leading electricity distribution business means career opportunities and recognition. We offer a competitive starting salary and a progression timeline as you gain experience:

• Year 1: £18,514
• Year 2: £24,938
• Year 2½ (Development role): £32,473
• Year 3: £37,770
• Completion: £43,491

Benefits include:

• 23 days annual leave (26 upon completion of training) + statutory holidays
• Competitive pension scheme (double matched up to 12%) and Sharesave options
• Earn while you learn and receive a fully funded qualification
• Develop well-rounded skills with experienced professionals
• Employee Assistance Programme including musculoskeletal and physiotherapy services
• Protective clothing and safety equipment supplied

Our Values and Principles

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the heart of who we are and what we do. We are open to discussing any adjustments you require. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if sufficient suitable applications are received.

National Grid’s Apprenticeship programme in the UK is open to all applicants who meet the eligibility criteria, with right to work evidence required before start. We cannot provide sponsorship for visa requirements. For information about visas, visit the GOV.UK site.

Seniority level

• Internship

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Engineering and Information Technology

Industries

• Utilities