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