Advanced Apprenticeship (Level 3) Heavy Vehicle Service and Maintenance Technician
Role overview
Heavy Vehicle Technicians keep the UK’s transport and logistics industry on the move. Apprentices will learn to service, inspect and repair large vehicles (N2 and N3 category) such as lorries, buses, and trailers, ensuring safety, reliability, and performance.
Apprentices develop the advanced mechanical and diagnostic skills needed to maintain complex vehicle systems, from engines and transmissions to hydraulics, air brakes, and electrical circuits.
You’ll learn how to:
- Service, inspect and repair heavy vehicles and trailers to industry and DVSA standards
- Use advanced diagnostic tools to identify and resolve complex mechanical and electrical faults
• Work with chassis, braking, fuel, and suspension systems Follow safety and environmental regulations, including Operator’s (O) Licence requirements
- Maintain accurate service and inspection records
- Deliver excellent customer communication and support within workshop or roadside environments
Apprentices typically work in manufacturer dealerships, independent workshops, fleet operators, or logistics depots, combining hands-on technical work with strong problem-solving and commercial awareness.
Typical roles include Heavy Vehicle Technician, Fleet Maintenance Engineer, or Service Technician.
Programme includes
A heavy vehicle service and maintenance technician will demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the following:
The fundamentals of HV technologies e.g. HV chassis design, engine, fuels, transmissions, electrical (12/24v), air-conditioning, hydraulic and air braking, air suspension systems etc.
The types and associated characteristics of HV and their configurations and applications.
Diagnosing principles and logical problem solving techniques related to HV.
Sufficient H&S knowledge and environmental awareness to carry out the work safely.
Operators “O” Licence requirements relating to HVs.
How to service, inspect and maintain vehicles and trailers to the expected standards and the importance of safety inspection and maintenance schedules to meet Operator’s (O) licence and legal obligations.
Customer expectations and implications of work carried out.
The need to be reliable, flexible, diligent and good timekeeper.
How the business works from an operational perspective and demonstrate commercial and financial awareness in the HV industry.
Complex problem solving techniques.
The requirements of providing roadside assistance.
The competency to achieve the following skills in the workplace:
Carry out the basic tasks with tools and equipment common to all procedures involving basic mechanical and electrical procedures related to HV.
The ability to keep updated with emerging new technologies within the HV industry.
Contribute to the maintenance of a safe and efficient workshop and adhere to the company and legislative processes.
Access specific and related HV technical information appropriately.
The ability to service, inspect and maintain HVs and trailers to meet company, Driver and vehicle standards agency (DVSA) and manufacturers’ standards.
Use a range of diagnostic and electrical measuring equipment to identify faults and underlying causes on HV’s.
Successfully inspect and prepare vehicles and trailers to meet DVSA standards prescribed in the tester’s manual.
Carry out final quality checks before handover to the customer without supervision.
Apply advanced diagnostic principles and logical/problem solving techniques and regimes.
Maintain records to company and operators’ licence obligations and regulation.
To be able to communicate effectively in both oral and written mediums both internally and with customers on a range of topics that will support, HV inspection and diagnosing techniques.
Required behaviours to achieve the following in the workplace:
Behave in accordance with the values of the company they work for whether manufacturer or independent to treat customers and stakeholders with courtesy and respond quickly to their requirements to ensure an excellent experience.
Operate effectively as a team member taking ownership and responsibility when required and be honest and accountable in all activities when things do not go as planned.
To work at continuous development of both self, team and processes.
Where can you work?
Heavy Vehicle Technicians are employed across:
• Commercial vehicle dealerships and repair networks
- Haulage and logistics companies
• Public transport and emergency service fleets
- Construction, utilities, and municipal vehicle operations
This pathway builds skilled, adaptable technicians who keep heavy vehicles safe, efficient, and road-ready for industries that drive the economy.
Progression opportunities
After completing this apprenticeship, learners can progress to roles such as Master Technician, Workshop Supervisor, or Fleet Maintenance Manager, or continue their training through higher-level automotive or engineering qualifications.
Completion of the programme also provides eligibility for Engineering Technician (EngTech) registration with a recognised professional body.
