Truck Dealership

Trailer technicians are responsible for maintaining, servicing and repairing truck trailers which are used to carry goods from one place to the next. The role of a trailer technician can vary but usually includes:

• Repairing trailers and tankers
• Servicing hydraulic systems
• Diagnosing faults
• Maintaining suspension and braking systems
• Repairing and replacing axles, hubs, tyres and wheels

As a trailer technician you will need to demonstrate:

• Good practical and problem solving skills
• The ability to keep up to date with developments in engine and electrical technologies
• The ability to work on your own initiative and as part of a team
• Strong communication skills
• Good physical fitness

Trailer technicians specialise in a particular area of vehicle maintenance and repair, so need to be trained in lift truck maintenance and repair level 2 in order to carry out this role. There are a range of qualifications in maintenance and repair covering the underpinning knowledge you will need to get started and the hands-on skills required to carry out the job.

Qualifications

IMI Awards

Level 2 Diploma in Heavy Vehicle Trailer Maintenance and Repair Principles

Level 2 Diploma in Lift Truck Maintenance and Repair Competence (QCF)

Please note: These figures are meant as a guide only and may vary from employer to employer and may be dependent on the geographical area.

Trailer technicians normally work 40 hours per week from Monday to Friday. Some employers may operate an on-call service for emergencies on a rota system so weekend and evening work may be a possibility. You would be based in a garage or workshop, and out on the road when required.

Salary:

• Trainee technicians can expect to earn between £7,000-£11,000 per year
• Newly qualified technicians can expect to earn between £14,500-£17,000 per year
• Experienced technicians may expect between £17,500-£21,000
• Senior technicians can expect up to £25,000

There may be opportunities for shift and overtime pay depending on your employer. You may also be eligible for holiday entitlement, company pension and private healthcare schemes.

There are several ways of starting your career as a trainee trailer technician:

• Train at work, in a dedicated training facility managed by the employer; many manufacturers offer apprenticeship programmes that involve training at specially equipped centres
• Study on day release at local colleges or with training providers whilst in employment
• Attend college, or a private training provider who will organise work placements
• Study full time at college with practical exercises as well as classroom work

Apprentice/traineeship schemes may vary from employer to employer but they will typically work towards an N/SVQ and will be on-the-job training. To do this you may require GCSEs/Standard Grades in English, Maths, Science and IT or appropriate equivalents. For further information on apprentice/traineeships in England please visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk, for Wales please visit www.careerswales.com for Northern Ireland please visit www.nidirect.gov.uk/careers and for Scotland please visit www.skillsdevelopmentscotland.co.uk

Apprenticeships

Vehicle Maintenance and Repair (Intermediate Lift Truck Technician)   In this qualification you’ll choose your area of specialisation, whether that’s motorcycles, cars, heavy vehicles or vehicle electrical systems.

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