VEHICLE MECHANIC

The Job

Vehicle Mechanics work on the Army’s wheeled and light tracked vehicles to ensure they are always ready for action. This involves fault-finding, regular maintenance and routine modifications.

The Right Job For Me?

You do not need to be super-fit to join the Territorials, but the training can sometimes be physically challenging so you need a good standard of health and stamina. As part of a larger unit, an ability to take orders is essential but you must also be able to act on your own initiative if the situation calls for it. You will need to be able to cope with complex academic and practical training and show some evidence of manual dexterity.

What Skills Will I Learn?

You will learn basic engineering skills and in-depth vehicle technology. You will also gain theoretical knowledge down to component level, and learn how to conduct repair of parts from component level up to major assemblies.

What Training Will I Do?

Initial trainingRecruits carry out a number of training weekends with their new unit and the nearest Regional Recruiting Team. After completing this series of weekend courses, you then attend a two-week residential course at an Army Training Regiment, where you complete your initial training. The whole process takes around 12 months, and will equip you with the skills needed to fight and survive in the field, as well as boosting your fitness.Further trainingAfter completing your initial training, you move on to your trade training at the School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering at Bordon in Hampshire. Your minimum training commitment is 27 days. This is broken down into 15 days of continuous training with your unit, either on exercises or on a course, and 12 days of ‘out of camp’ training, made up of weekend training and other activities. You will normally be expected to attend for training on one evening a week, and might have to exceed the minimum requirement at first so you can get your qualifications.

What Qualifications Could I Get?

As a member of a Territorial unit you will have access to a Continuous Professional Development Plan and Personal Development Record. Together, these will help you identify and develop your skills and turn them into recognised civilian qualifications, which may be of help to you in your civilian career. NVQ Level 2 may soon be awarded to those completing their trade training.

Future Prospects

As well as keeping you fit and helping you make friends for life, being in the Army gives you a major advantage in the increasingly competitive job market. Employers recognise Territorial soldiers as committed individuals who work well in a team and who are always looking for challenges and opportunities to extend their skills. They will know you are flexible, self-motivated, dependable, confident and responsible. Above all, being a Territorial soldier demonstrates that you can handle pressure, and have professional expertise backed up by solid experience.