Apprentice HGV Mechanic
At Panda, we value waste. That means keeping essential services moving safely, efficiently and reliably every day.
We are looking for an Apprentice HGV Mechanic to join our workshop team and build a career in heavy vehicle maintenance. This is a hands-on training role where you will learn from experienced technicians while working towards a recognised Heavy Vehicle Maintenance qualification through a mix of workplace learning and classroom-based study.
As an Apprentice HGV Mechanic, you will support the servicing, inspection, fault diagnosis and repair of HGVs, trailers and associated equipment. You will start by learning the basics and, over time, build the confidence and technical skills needed to carry out more complex mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and safety-critical repairs.
This is a great opportunity for someone practical, reliable and eager to learn a skilled trade in a busy operational environment.
What You’ll Be Doing
You will:
Assist with routine inspections, safety checks, maintenance and servicing on heavy goods vehicles and trailers
Learn how to support legal roadworthiness checks in line with DVSA standards and company procedures
Work alongside qualified technicians to identify, diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and pneumatic faults
Learn how to use specialist diagnostic equipment and workshop tools safely and correctly
Support repairs and maintenance on key vehicle systems, including engines, transmissions, steering, braking systems and air suspension
Help complete service records, inspection sheets and maintenance paperwork accurately
Follow Operator Licence requirements, workshop processes and compliance standards
Keep the workshop clean, organised and safe
Look after issued tools and equipment, carrying out checks where required
Support the wider workshop team with day-to-day garage duties and parts management
Follow all site health, safety and environmental rules at all timesTraining and Development
As part of the Apprentice HGV Mechanic role, you will:
Work towards a recognised Heavy Vehicle Service and Maintenance qualification
Attend day release or block release training with an approved training provider or college
Receive hands-on mentoring from experienced mechanics and technicians
Build your skills gradually, starting with basic maintenance tasks before progressing to more complex repairs
Gain practical experience working on commercial vehicles in a live workshop environmentAbout You
We are looking for someone who is keen to learn, willing to work hard and interested in building a long-term career as an HGV Mechanic.
You will need:
A genuine interest in mechanics, vehicles, engineering or maintenance
A practical, hands-on approach to work
Willingness to learn from experienced technicians and follow instructions carefully
Good attention to detail, especially when completing checks and paperwork
A safety-first mindset
Reliability, punctuality and a positive attitude
Confidence working as part of a team
Willingness to attend college or training as part of the apprenticeship programmePrevious mechanical experience is not essential, but an interest in vehicles, tools, engines or repair work would be beneficial.
Working Environment
This is a practical, physically active role based in a busy workshop environment.
The role may involve:
Working around large commercial vehicles and trailers
Working in and around inspection pits
Climbing onto vehicle chassis where safe and appropriate
Using tools, equipment and diagnostic systems
Supporting the team with occasional breakdown or roadside repair activity
Following strict safety procedures at all timesWhy Join Panda?
This Apprentice HGV Mechanic opportunity gives you the chance to learn a skilled trade while gaining real experience in a business that keeps essential waste and recycling services moving.
You will be supported by experienced colleagues, given structured training, and encouraged to develop the skills needed to progress within a professional workshop environment.
We are Panda. We value waste.
We’re in the business of waste management but that doesn’t just mean collecting bins. Behind every collection is a passionate team of people finding smarter, safer, and more sustainable ways to recycle and repurpose materials that would otherwise go to waste.
Over the past 30 years, Panda has grown into a leading resource recovery business, bringing together almost 3,000 people across multiple brands, united by a shared vision and strong values. While our operations are diverse, our purpose is clear: to protect our people, support our customers, and create positive impact for the communities and environments we serve.
At Panda, people are at the heart of everything we do. We work as one team, combining different skills, experiences, and perspectives to achieve shared goals. We care for each other’s wellbeing, encourage development, and support growth because we know we’re stronger together.
We expect excellence in how we operate. High standards, bold thinking, and continuous improvement drive our passion for innovation. We challenge the ordinary, put safety first, and embrace new ideas while delivering practical, cost-effective solutions that move our business forward.
We own what we do. From day-to-day tasks to major projects, we take pride in our work and responsibility for the outcome. We don’t walk past problems we address them together. Our expertise, reliability, and care reflect who we are and the difference we make.
And above all, we act with trust and integrity. Trust is built through open communication, honesty, and accountability. It allows us to move quickly, make confident decisions, and deliver results — knowing our people are empowered to do the right thing.
Our journey depends on talented, committed people who want to make an impact.
Take the first step and join us on the journey.
Panda is committed to attracting and retaining a skilled and diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we operate and the people we serve.
(DE&I Policy Statement)