What I do

Arriva operates the buses for the routes around Barking, and it’s my job to help maintain them. Every 30 days, a bus will come in to be inspected, and we will make sure it’s safe by doing any necessary repairs.

How I became a technician

I never saw myself going to university, but I’d always been interested in engineering and having a practical job, so when I found that you get paid to learn during an apprenticeship, it seemed like the right choice. I’m currently two years into a four-year apprenticeship at Arriva.

A typical day in my
working life

My shift starts at 6:30 am and finishes at around 2:30 pm. When I arrive, I clock in, get changed into overalls and safety boots and speak to my manager about the tasks for the day. Generally, we start on the bigger jobs, which can include inspecting and repairing engine mounts, gearbox mounts, and gearbox tubes - bigger, heavier jobs that take more time.

We save smaller jobs until later in the day, like sorting interior body jobs, seats, stickers, lights, and bell pushes. Once we've finished working on a bus, we wash it off and make sure it is safe to go back on the road.

Women are as welcome as men in this industry and are just as capable.

A little more about
my everyday role

What I love most about my job

I love that every day is different – there is such a range of jobs that can be done on a bus, and I’m always learning something new.

The best bits about working in a team

There is a big team in the workshop, so if someone is struggling, we will all come together and share knowledge, tips, and tricks

The most exciting thing I’ve achieved so far in my job

Passing my first-year exams, which involved practicals and a theory test. I was so happy when I got my results!

The next steps in my career journey

I want to complete my apprenticeship, and then I’d like to work in management and learn about how the bus company works.

Find out more about this role

Discover what qualifications you’ll need, how much you can earn, and what the next steps are.

Nine apprentices sitting on sofas socialising

Meet other technicians

Read more real life technicians stories, see what they do every day, and how they got started.