Automotive Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprentice

Introduction

Ditch the desk job and build real‑world engineering skills. At AutoNet VIP, you will get straight onto the workshop floor diagnosing mechanical faults, repairing modern powertrains, and testing components. You'll gain extensive hands‑on experience while earning a fully funded BEng (Hons) at the University of Hertfordshire.

About the Employer

AutoNet VIP is a growing, family‑run vehicle repair and diagnostics business based in Harlow, Essex. We specialise in electric and hybrid vehicle technologies alongside traditional petrol and diesel models.

Built on a commitment to honest, high‑quality service and cutting‑edge diagnostic technology, the workshop handles everything from routine servicing and MOTs to complex electronic repairs and performance vehicles.

As a forward‑thinking business, AutoNet VIP actively embraces digital innovation—including online booking systems, automated customer communications, and data‑driven workshop management. We are dedicated to investing in future talent, supporting our apprentices with hands‑on mentoring, modern technical facilities, and direct exposure to real‑world commercial challenges.

What You'll Do

Practical workshop maintenance and repairs:

• Get hands‑on daily dismantling, servicing, and rebuilding mechanical components across petrol, diesel, hybrid, and electric vehicles—including brakes, suspension, steering, gearboxes, and engine assemblies.

Root‑cause fault diagnosis:

• Investigate complex mechanical and electromechanical failures in the workshop using diagnostic equipment, precision measuring tools, and physical component inspections to identify why parts fail.

Engine and powertrain work: Support technicians with hands‑on engine rebuilds, component replacements, transmission overhauls, and thermal management/cooling system maintenance.

EV and hybrid powertrain support: Work directly on modern electrified powertrains, assisting with high‑voltage battery systems, electric motors, regenerative braking mechanisms, and electromechanical interfaces.

CAD modelling and practical design: Apply university engineering principles to produce 2D/3D CAD models and technical drawings for custom workshop tooling, replacement brackets, or component modifications.

Component testing and verification: Physically inspect, measure tolerances, and road/bench test vehicle systems post‑repair to ensure safety, performance, and dimensional accuracy.

Workshop process improvement: Identify practical workshop challenges and get involved in hands‑on engineering improvement projects to streamline repair methods, reduce waste, and improve tooling.

Technical documentation and safety: Complete detailed job cards, record torque and measurement data, and strictly adhere to workshop health, safety, and COSHH standards.

Training Outcome

Expected Career Progression:

Upon successful completion of the Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship and graduating with a BEng (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering, a permanent position within AutoNet VIP will be available for a high‑performing apprentice.

As AutoNet VIP continues to expand its engineering capabilities across hybrid, electric, and high‑performance vehicles, clear career progression routes include:

Lead Diagnostic & Mechanical Engineer: Taking ownership of complex mechanical repairs, major engine rebuilds, powertrain overhauls, and advanced root‑cause fault investigations across combustion, hybrid, and EV platforms.

Automotive Design & Development Engineer: Applying CAD/CAM, FEA, and engineering principles to develop custom workshop tooling, bespoke replacement components, and mechanical modifications for specialized and high‑performance vehicles.

Workshop Engineering Manager / Technical Lead: Overseeing workshop operations, managing quality assurance and health and safety standards, mentoring the next cohort of apprentices, and optimizing technical repair procedures.

Electromechanical & EV Specialist: Leading the technical implementation and diagnostics for next‑generation electric vehicle powertrains, high‑voltage battery systems, and connected vehicle technology.

Professional Registration: Full academic eligibility and practical experience to achieve Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status with professional engineering bodies such as the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), with a structured pathway towards Chartered Engineer (CEng).

Skills Required

• Communication skills
• IT skills
• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Customer care skills
• Problem solving skills
• Number skills
• Analytical skills
• Logical
• Team working
• Creative
• Initiative
• Physical fitness
• Hands‑on mechanical aptitude
• Willingness to get hands dirty
• Health & safety awareness
• Automotive passion
• Diagnostic mindset

Qualifications

• Essential - GCSE - English Language - 4 or above
• Essential - GCSE - Maths - 4 or above
• Essential - A Level - Maths - B
• Essential - A Level - Physics - B
• Desired - BTEC - Extended diploma in Engineering - DDM (Maths distinction)

Course Information

Course: Product design and development engineer (degree) (level 6)

Level: 6

Route: Engineering and manufacturing

Apprenticeship Level: Degree

Working Arrangements

Working Week: Monday to Friday, typically 8:00am to 5:00pm (exact workshop shift pattern to be confirmed). University attendance and study time are integrated into these working hours. Occasional Saturday morning workshop work may be required.

Expected Duration: 4 Years

Training Provider: UNIVERSITY OF HERTFORDSHIRE

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