Construction equipment maintenance technician
Level 3 · AdvancedEngineering and manufacturing 3 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
The Construction Equipment Maintenance Technician apprenticeship trains you to diagnose and repair faults on a wide range of construction plant including excavators, cranes, piling rigs, and access equipment. You will work with complex hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical systems, using diagnostic software and precision tools in workshops or on site. This Level 3 qualification leads to careers with plant hire companies, contractors, or manufacturers' service networks.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Advanced engine management, hydraulic, and electrical diagnostic techniques
How to use electronic diagnostic tools and fault-code readers
Overhaul and reconditioning of major components such as engines and transmissions
Safe lifting, slinging, and jacking procedures for heavy plant
Welding, fabrication, and structural repair relevant to plant maintenance
Reading hydraulic and electrical schematic diagrams
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Diagnose mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical faults using diagnostic software
Carry out major component overhauls including engine and gearbox rebuilds
Test and calibrate hydraulic systems to manufacturers' pressure specifications
Repair or replace electrical wiring, sensors, and control units
Complete detailed job cards recording all work, time, and parts used
Road-test or operate plant after repair to verify safe functioning
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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