Forklift truck engineer

You can do a course in vehicle mechanics before applying for a job with a garage or repair service. Courses include:

• Level 2 Certificate in Heavy Vehicle Maintenance and Repair
• Level 2 Diploma in Plant or Machinery Maintenance
• Level 2 Diploma in Mechanical Engineering

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• funding advice
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You can complete an advanced apprenticeship in lift truck and powered access vehicle engineering.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

You can apply for jobs if you've got experience in lorry or bus servicing, mechanical engineering, or repairing construction or agricultural machinery.

You'll need:

• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• problem-solving skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• practical skills for repairing and maintaining equipment
• the ability to use your initiative
• persistence and determination
• the ability to work well with your hands
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

You'll need a full driving licence if you're going to work as a mobile service engineer.

You might also need a forklift operator certificate, though your employer may put you through that training when you start work.

Your day-to-day tasks may include:

• visiting clients on-site with a mobile workshop
• identifying problems using tools, a laptop or hand-held computer
• repairing or replacing faulty parts
• servicing engines
• test-driving trucks and making adjustments
• carrying out safety checks

You could work in a workshop or visit sites.

Your working environment may be dirty.

You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.