Vehicle Preparation Technician
Job Detail
Working Hours 40 hrs p/week, Monday - Friday, periodic Saturday overtime
Benefits £2,000 joining bonus*, 25 Days Holiday Allowance, Company Pension Scheme, Staff Discount on Vehicles and Servicing, Career Development
Location Harlow Preparation Centre
Closing Date 30/04/2026
Salary £34,798 + bonus scheme
Job Description

Vehicle Preparation Technician Vacancy in Harlow - £2,000 joining bonus *

This is a full-time permanent role, where you will be working 40 hours a week Mon-Fri, with a basic salary of £34,798, plus a bonus scheme.

The role of a Vehicle Preparation Technician is vital to ensuring that all vehicles are prepared to the highest possible standard before reaching the customer. This position plays a key part in maintaining quality, safety, and customer satisfaction by thoroughly inspecting, preparing, and finishing vehicles in line with company and manufacturer standards. From carrying out pre‑delivery inspections to identifying cosmetic or mechanical issues, the Vehicle Preparation Technician ensures that every vehicle is roadworthy and fully functional. Their attention to detail enhances the customer experience and upholds the reputation of the business.

Working closely with the sales and service teams, the Vehicle Preparation Technician helps ensure vehicles are ready on time and meet all required specifications. This role requires a strong eye for detail, good technical knowledge, and a commitment to delivering consistent, high‑quality results.

Key Responsibilities/Objectives:

  • Carry out inspections, repairs and services to the highest of standards within scheduled times, meeting company and franchise standards.
  • Ensure all necessary Vehicle Health Checks and Cit Now videos are completed accurately.
  • Diagnose faults using diagnostic equipment and resolve mechanical and electrical issues.
  • Take responsibility for ensuring all work is completed to a high standard.
  • Replace components, parts, lubricants and consumables and record usage.
  • Carry out servicing, maintenance, and repairs on a wide range of vehicles.
  • Maintain accurate records of work carried out.
  • Adhere to strict Health and safety guidelines at all times.

In order to be successful within the Vehicle Preparation Technician position, you should:

  • Hold a minimum NVQ level 2 qualification in Vehicle Maintenance (or equivalent).
  • Strong diagnostic and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • MOT Card preferable but not essential.
  • A full UK driving licence is essential.
  • Manufacturer based training will be provided.

And as a rewarding start, we will offer you a £2,000 joining bonus, T&C’s apply*.

*Starting bonus of £2,000 (gross) is applicable to new starting Vehicle Service Technicians at Gates from the 1st October 2023 only. The Vehicle Service Technician should not currently be employed by a Ford dealer. Once a job offer has been made and accepted, and they start work with us, an introductory commission of £1,000 will be paid to them upon completion of one months’ service, with a further £1,000 payment on successful completion of their probationary period. Starting bonus payments for rejoining Motor Vehicle Technicians will be at the discretion of a Managing Director.


Gates are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, disability or other characteristics. Our hiring decisions are made using an unbiased approach and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and candidates to feel welcome.

Reasonable adjustments: All interviews assess the skills of the job itself and should not put you at a disadvantage of your disability/condition. If you require reasonable adjustment, please let us know so we can accommodate you. To do this, please include your reasonable adjustment requirements during the application stage or contact the person who offered you an interview. You do not have to disclose your condition when you are applying for a role with us. The Equality Act 2010 defines a disabled person as someone who has a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term negative effect on their ability to do daily activities.

Benefits and Rewards

Some of the perks and benefits from working at Gates Ford.

25 days holiday allowance
25 days holiday allowance
Company pension scheme
Company pension scheme
Staff discount on vehicle sales and servicing
Staff discount on vehicle sales and servicing
Introductory commission bonuses for vehicle sales and employee referrals
Introductory commission bonuses for vehicle sales and employee referrals
Career development
Career development
Title
Application Form
About You * Required Information
    Additional Information
    Cancel
    Please note, in line with our Privacy Policy, your name and contact details will be kept on file for 6 months once you have submitted your application to us. During this time, we may contact you if a similar role arises which we believe may be of interest to you.
    Join Our Team For any inquiries or assistance during the application process, feel free to reach out.
    <%= nd.carcloud.widget.getSyncStatus() %> Shortlist
    Sorted by <% if(nd.carcloud.widget.sort == 'asc') { %> Price: Lowest to Highest <% } else { %> Price: Highest to Lowest <% } %>
      <% _.each(items,function(item,key,list){ %><% }); %>
    Cancel Retrieve Your Shortlist Access your shortlist that was saved earlier.
    Load and Continue
    Recently added vehicles are added to saved vehicles. You will keep all your recently added vehicles.
    Cancel Save Your Shortlist Save and access your list later.
    Save and Continue
    Compare Vehicles
    + Add Vehicle from your shortlist