In today’s rapidly evolving automotive landscape, the roles and responsibilities of apprentices in the industry are expanding at a swift pace. One such apprenticeship, theVehicle Damage Mechanical, Electrical and Trim (MET) Technician, plays an indispensable role in the vehicle repair process.
Who is a MET Technician?
Commonly known by various titles such as Bodyshop Mechanic, Stripper/Fitters, MET Technician, and Bodyshop Technician, a MET specialist operates predominantly in the vehicle body repair sector. Their primary responsibility is to identify and manage damaged mechanical and electrical components in cars and light commercial vehicles, especially post-collision. This often happens within the controlled environment of a collision repair workshop.
Beyond mere identification, these technicians are tasked with removing and refitting these components both before and after body repair work. Their contribution ensures that vehicles involved in accidents or similar incidents are restored to their former glory, if not better.
What skills will you develop in this role?
The depth of knowledge required for this role is immense. MET
Technicians:
Assess faults and
prepare detailed job cards.
Remove and fit body
panels with precision alignment.
Diagnose vehicle
issues using advanced software.
Master engine,
gearbox, and suspension systems.
Utilize
industry-specific tools, including diagnostic and calibration equipment.
Understand both
technical aspects and the business impact, emphasizing accuracy and
cost-efficiency.
What is expected of you?
The technical prowess of a MET technician goes hand in hand with
exemplary behavior:
Prioritize safety and
adhere to business protocols.
Be a team player,
accountable for deadlines and mishaps.
Stay updated with the
latest automotive technologies.
Communicate
effectively with customers and peers
The Path to Becoming a MET Technician
For those intrigued by this career path, a MET Technician apprenticeship typically requires a commitment of around three years for new entrants. Individual employers determine specific entry requirements. Furthermore, apprentices need to fulfil certain educational prerequisites, like attaining a level 2 in English and maths.
To learn more about Vehicle Damage MET Technician apprenticeships, and find out more about other offerings and the apprenticeship process, visit our pages on LinkedIn and Twitter, as well as signing up to our newsletter.
Do you want to gain a higher level of education and have a full-time job in a vehicle garage? Could you see yourself as an individual that wants to fix vehicle damage in a motoring apprenticeship? If your answer is yes, this could be the apprenticeship to kickstart your career, working on vehicle damage repair as a level 4 Vehicle Damage Assessor.
With the use of the latest electronic estimating systems, you can
provide customers a first-class service. You will assist in making assessments
on what repairs are needed and how much it will cost for customer vehicle
damages.
The role of a Vehicle Damage assessor apprentice
Working within the automotive body shop industry as a vehicle
damage assessor you will accurately inspect and assess all elements of a motor
vehicle that has sustained damage and requires repair. During the course of
your apprenticeship, you will gain everything you need to become an advanced Vehicle
Damage assessor.
The course will involve studying a range of theory and practical tasks that you will need in today’s automotive repair industry. You will be employed by industry-leading professionals that will help you to acquire valuable skills and experience including an excellent training provider to guide and assist you through your apprenticeship course.
Vehicle Damage Assessor Apprentice Knowledge
Health and Safety
In the workplace, you will be expected to carry out and understand all vehicle safety systems. You will also gain a good understanding of the current Health & Safety legislation during your apprenticeship.
Tools and Equipment
During your apprenticeship, you will learn how to use the tools and equipment used in given processes including the use of electronic costings systems. You will also have an understanding of vehicle construction and the materials needed to carry out a damage repair.
Day to Day Duties
To be able to apply the importance of teamwork in the workplace
Communicating effectively in the workplace
Have knowledge of the systems and operations which cover steering, suspension and braking
Learn about Transmission and drivelines
Have knowledge of the principles of electrical systems
Ability to show a clear understanding of electricals and the use of electronic components
Keep up to date with vehicle repair technologies including Paint, Panel and MET.
Have a good understanding of commercial aspects of a body shop
Know how to produce a job card
Tend to non-accidental related vehicle damage
Get to know how to carry out industry vehicle repair methods.
Desired Skills for the job
You will be able to:
Recognise properties of different types of vehicle damage
Maintain records
Use manual and digital image technology
Locate vehicle unique identification details
Diagnose safety faults on vehicles
Read, adhere to and apply relevant legislation
Use repair methods
Make judgements on vehicle damage, taking into account safety and cost
Commercial decision making
Prepare costings based on parts and labour ratios
Oral communication, listening and negotiation skills
Use industry guidelines appropriately
Recognise the importance of gaining approval before work commences
Use of estimating software, spreadsheets, online databases
As a vehicle damage assessor you will be expected to demonstrate the following:
Being Customer-focused, always putting the customer first.
Have a right-first-time approach to tasks, showing you are committed to delivering and maintaining high-quality workplace standards.
Present a calm and reasoned approach to any situation.
Be able to deliver a professional approach, demonstrating integrity and confidence in daily activities.
Adherence to company values, showing passion and enthusiasm for the industry.
The ability to take responsibility for health and safety is imperative.
Have good attention to detail.
What requirements do I need as a Vehicle Damage assessor?
All apprentices without level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this level prior to taking the End-Point Assessment.
Please note that we would accept holders of the British Sign Language (BSL) qualification if it is your primary language.
Working Hours
Monday – Friday between 8:00 – 5:00pm
You will be required to be employed for 40 hours a week for a duration of 36 months. This does not include your End Of Point Assessment (EPA) period.
Additional Details
Maximum Government funding – £9000
Occupational Level – Level 4
EQA Provider – Ofqual
Level 4 equivalent – Foundation degree
Earliest start date – 18/04/2019
1 position available
Conclusion
In summary, the level 4 Vehicle damage assessor apprenticeship offers a great opportunity for those who want to learn to develop themselves in an automotive career path. Whilst gaining experience and life skills in the workplace you will also receive a level 4 qualification in the field which you can take with you on your career journey. The automotive industry is ever growing with employment at around 200,000 so why not earn while you learn and kick start your career today!
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