About

7th October 2026

With a turnover of approximately £250 million per annum and over 700 members of staff employed in 13 dealerships and one dedicated service centre across the country, giving the business both a national presence and a local community spirit. Representing Vauxhall, MG and Citroen Drive Vauxhall offer a wide range of new cars and vans whilst providing a variety of used and manufacturer approved vehicles to suit any need or price range.

As an apprentice vehicle damage panel technician, you will work as part of a highly skilled work force that is committed to quality. The successful candidate can expect a high-quality training package with excellent career prospects. You will be repairing accident damage to vehicle panels etc.

Main description

What you'll do at work

Undertake appropriate job preparation prior to commencing repair, including safety precautions, panel preparation and body measurements
Identify the material used in the construction to enable the correct joining techniques and manufacturer specifications to be adhered to
Interpret relevant technical data and methods to make sure that any joints are in line with vehicle manufacturer specification and the vehicle / body panels are aligned correctly
Ability to identify and understand the correct joining technology
Remove, repair, and replace vehicle body panels and components of the vehicle safely and efficiently
Operate the correct repair tools, equipment and devices used in the process, panel pulling systems, jig and alignment tools, spot welders, brazing tools
Identify and communicate supplementary damage such as panels that were deemed to be reparable but once worked on were found to be beyond repair along with damage that could not be established on original inspection
Ability to detect and rectify faults within a vehicles structure that’s integral to its safety
Maintaining high standards of housekeeping

Training to be provided

Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.

Training provider
AUTO-ASSESS LIMITED

Training course
Vehicle damage panel technician (level 3)

Training schedule
Our training partner will deliver a high-quality Level 3 Vehicle Damage Panel Technician programme here in our state-of-the-art bodyshop
No college attendance required
You will work alongside a highly skilled mentor who will support you in becoming a skilled and qualified vehicle panel technician
Level 3 Vehicle Damage Panel Technician apprenticeship standard

Entry Requirements

Desirable qualifications
GCSE in: English GCSE or equivalent and Maths GCSE or equivalent (grade Grade 4/C or above)
Share if you have other relevant qualifications and industry experience. The apprenticeship can be adjusted to reflect what you already know.

Skills required

Communication skills
Attention to detail
Organisation skills
Problem solving skills
Analytical skills
Logical
Team working
Creative
Initiative
Patience
Physical fitness

Future prospects

Following completion of your apprenticeship you can expect permanent employment as well as opportunities to progress into roles such as Workshop Controller, Vehicle Damage Assessor or Bodyshop Manager
The opportunities are endless, having a highly regarded set of skills, Apprentices can go on to develop their careers within the automotive sector following their own interests and ambitions

Closing Date

The closing date for this job offer is on 28/10/2026

Salary

£16,640 for your first year, then could increase depending on your age

Location

This job is located in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk

More Information and How to Apply

More Info Apply Now

About West Suffolk College

West Suffolk College is an ambitious vocational and academic College, with a stunning main campus set in the heart of Bury St Edmunds. We are committed to providing outstanding education to all our students.

Vehicle Damage Panel Technician Apprentice - Drive Vauxhall