Vehicle Damage Panel Technician Apprenticeship
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Company Name: FMG Repair Services (Durham)
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Type: Apprenticeship
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Sector: Automotive
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Application Deadline Date: 02/08/2026
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Positions Available: 1
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Location: Durham, DH1 2RS
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Salary: £17,728.62 per year
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Ref: VAC-17854
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Start Date: 07/09/2026
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Working Week: 40 hours, Monday - Friday
Brief Description
Are you into cars, hands-on work, and love seeing your efforts turn into something shiny and impressive? This could be the perfect job for you. FMGRS are looking for a motivated, detail-focused Panel Technician to join their busy workshop in Durham, DH1 2RS – and no, you don’t need years of experience to get started.
Vacancy Detail
To support the Vehicle Damage Assessment team in accurately assessing accident damaged vehicles, producing repair estimates, ensuring an efficient repair process. This is a training role aimed at developing the skills and knowledge to become a fully qualified VDA, working towards industry-recognised qualifications (e.g., IMI, ATA).
• Assist in inspecting damaged vehicles to identify all required repairs.
• Support in producing accurate repair estimates using Bodyshop estimating software (e.g., Audatex).
• Learn how to liaise with insurers, engineers, and customers to confirm repair methods and costs.
• Help ensure all work complies with manufacturer repair methods and safety standards.
• Assist in updating job files, photographs, and documentation to support claims and repair processes.
• Gain an understanding of parts ordering, job scheduling, and workflow management.
• Support the team in ensuring repairs are completed on time and to a high quality.
• Attend all required training sessions, both on-the-job and at external training providers.
• Ensure all coaching/training is applied to daily routine
Qualifications Required
• GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths – Grade 4/C (Essential)
• Full UK driving licence (or working towards it) desirable.
Personal Qualities
• Problem-solving mindset and willingness to learn technical processes.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
Skills Required
• Basic IT skills (Microsoft Office, willingness to learn estimating systems).
• Ability to follow instructions and take constructive feedback.
Future Prospects
Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, you will achieve an industry-recognised qualification, providing a strong foundation for a career as a fully qualified Panel Technician. FMGRS is committed to supporting your ongoing development, with opportunities for further manufacturer training, specialist skills development, and career progression, helping you build your expertise and advance within the business.
Other Information
Closing Dates:
Please submit your application along with your CV as soon as possible to avoid disappointment; we reserve the right to close vacancies prior to the published closing date if we receive a sufficient number of applications