Land-based service engineering technician
Level 3 · AdvancedAgriculture, environmental and animal care 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
A land-based service engineering technician diagnoses and repairs complex faults in agricultural, groundscare, and outdoor power machinery at level 3. Apprentices use electronic diagnostic systems and mechanical skills to service and repair a wide range of equipment including tractors, combines, and specialist vehicles. The role leads to senior technician, workshop supervisor, or dealer principal positions.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Advanced engine, transmission, hydraulic, and electrical system theory
How to use manufacturer diagnostic software to interpret fault codes
Welding, fabrication, and machining skills used in land-based repair work
Precision measuring instruments and how to use them accurately
GPS guidance and precision farming technology fitted to modern machinery
Customer service and how to explain technical faults in plain language
Workshop management including parts ordering and job costing
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Diagnose mechanical, hydraulic, and electronic faults using diagnostic equipment
Remove, overhaul, and refit major components including engines and gearboxes
Programme and update electronic control units using manufacturer software
Carry out complex servicing to manufacturer schedules and tolerances
Road-test or field-test repaired machinery to confirm the fault is resolved
Prepare accurate estimates and update customers on repair progress
Maintain records of work carried out and parts used on each job
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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