Vehicle Technician Jobs: the Fork in the Road
The UK automotive world is at a turning point. Petrol and diesel engines, which have dominated the market for over a century, are being phased out in favour of electric vehicles (EVs). As of January 2024, the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate took effect, setting the stage for all new cars to be fully zero-emission by 2035.
This shift isn’t just about cars — it’s about people. It raises big questions for the industry:
How are manufacturers and workshops adapting to the pace of change?
Will there be enough qualified technicians to keep millions of EVs safely on the road?
For vehicle technicians, this shift isn’t just about new technology; it essentially changes their roles. After building careers around petrol and diesel engines, many may be asking:
Is my job secure?
Do I need to retrain?
Will I earn more money?
How can I begin this transition?
In this article, we’ll guide vehicle technicians through a path that not only leads to job security but also to a more rewarding career in EV specialisation.
The EV-olution of Vehicle Technician Jobs
Currently, there are about 41 to 42 million vehicles on UK roads, with only around 3.4% being fully zero-emission. New UK regulations require that by 2030, 80% of new cars (and 70% of new vans) sold be zero-emission, ramping up to 100% by 2035.
These numbers suggest that the rise of EVs represents a significant shift, not just a temporary trend. EVs are steadily taking a bigger share of new car sales each year, as shown in the chart below, a change that will reshape the skills required of vehicle technicians.
When looking for vehicle technician jobs, this change presents both challenges and exciting opportunities. As traditional petrol and diesel repairs start to decline, the demand is growing for technicians who know their way around:
1. High-voltage systems
2. Battery diagnostics
3. EV-specific servicing
According to the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), there are currently about 66,788 EV-qualified technicians in the UK, comprising just 28% of the total technician workforce. Without rapid upskilling, the IMI predicts a shortfall of over 30,000 qualified EV technicians by 2030.
Salary and Security: The Boost from EV Specialisation
Brushing up on skills such as electrical safety, software diagnostics, and charging infrastructure is no longer a nice-to-have; it’s quickly becoming essential. Here’s how salaries compare across different roles in the industry:
| Role | Typical ICE Salary | With EV/High-Voltage Training | Earning Boost |
| General Vehicle Technician | £30,000 to £38,000 | £34,000 to 38,000 basic + OTE £50,000 to £55,000 | +25% to 50% |
| Diagnostic Specialist | £34,000 to £40,000 | £40,000 to £50,000 | +15% to 30% |
| Master Technician | £44,000 to £50,000 | £55,000 to £60,000 + (some OTE higher) | +20% to 30% |
The key takeaway is that EV training is not just about keeping up; it’s a pathway to higher pay, quicker career advancement, and long-term stability.
Creating Your Path: Becoming an EV Specialist
Now that we understand the changes affecting vehicle technician jobs, let’s explore how to transition to EV specialisation.
While some garages may find it challenging to afford training, many employers recognise the value of investing in their staff. For instance, Platinum Recruitment partners with dealerships and garages that prioritise a qualified team and often offer training opportunities.
Here’s how to become EV-ready:
Foundation Training
Take courses like the IMI Level 2 Award in Electric/Hybrid Vehicle Routine Maintenance to learn the basics of working safely with EVs.
High-voltage Certification
The IMI Level 3 Award covers system repair and replacement, which is becoming the industry standard.
Diagnostic and Master-level Skills
Level 4 courses focus on advanced skills, such as high-voltage battery diagnostics and complex fault-finding.
Manufacturer-specific Training
OEM-led programs (e.g., Tesla, BMW, Nissan) provide exposure to their specific EV systems, enhancing your appeal to franchised dealerships.
Stay Compliant
Regular continuing professional development (CPD) and “TechSafe” IMI accreditation will help keep your knowledge up to date.
By taking these steps, vehicle technicians can successfully navigate the industry transformation and secure their place in the exciting future of electric vehicles.
At Platinum, we’re already placing technicians who’ve completed these steps into roles with higher earning potential and stronger progression routes. Whether you’re just starting with Level 2 or aiming for master technician status, the time to invest in EV training is now.
Start exploring vehicle technician jobs today!
Vehicle Technician Jobs: What Employers Are Looking For
The role of a vehicle technician is changing fast. Employers aren’t just filling vacancies; they want forward-thinking professionals who can handle the technology of modern vehicles, work safely, and keep learning.
Industry research from the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) warns of a growing skills gap, with the UK set to face a shortfall of tens of thousands of qualified EV technicians in the coming years. As a result, both dealerships and independent garages are prioritising technicians who can bring more than just mechanical know-how.
Employers are looking for candidates who:
- Hold formal qualifications — especially in high-voltage safety and EV systems, not just on-the-job experience.
- Demonstrate a growth mindset — viewing the EV transition as an opportunity, not a threat, and being willing to upskill continually.
- Adapt quickly — embracing the move from mechanical repairs to electrical and software-based diagnostics.
When looking for vehicle technician jobs, this isn’t just a hiring checklist; it’s a roadmap to becoming indispensable.
Conclusion: Vehicle Technicians, Don’t Get Left Behind!
The path is clear: traditional mechanical work is gradually fading, while expertise in EVs is becoming increasingly valuable. By investing in EV qualifications today, you’re not just adding skills; you’re becoming the go-to expert every garage relies on and every customer feels confident leaving their car with.
Now is the best time to explore opportunities in the electric vehicle sector. By registering with us, you’ll gain access to employers who will invest in your future. Don’t get left behind – take the driving seat of your career today!
