Apprentice Scheme

Atkins are an active participant in the Tractor Mechanic Apprentice schemes in assocation with the ETB (Education and Training Board). This is a 4 year programme which leads to a QQI (Quality and Qualifications Ireland) Level 6 certification in association with the ETBs in Waterford and Tralee.  This will lead to a fulfilling and satisfying career working as a Tractor and Machinery Mechanic, with plenty of opportunity for progression.

Agricultural mechanics are concerned with fault-finding, repair, overhaul and maintenance of farm tractors and farm machinery. These farm machines could include forage harvesters, balers, bale wrappers, mowers, combine harvesters, crop-sprayers, fertiliser distributors, diet feeders, tillage and slurry handling equipment. Their skills overlap with those of other crafts within the motor family of crafts, therefore they are equipped to carry out some repair work on ATVs (All Terrain Vehicle- Quads) light and heavy commercial vehicles, earth moving equipment, forklift trucks and other vehicles.

A number of agricultural mechanics progress to positions of service engineers/reps and technical sales persons within the agricultural tractors and farm machinery distribution and service industry. Some agricultural mechanics may also gain employment in the spares department of agricultural garages. Atkins are proud participants in the programme and have a number of mechanics who progressed through the Agricultural Mechanic programme employed in Cork and Birr.

The programme is in a number of phases involving both training centre and workshop based training.  The apprenticeship generally lasts for 4 years, with 3 different periods spent in off-the-job training.  For this particular apprenticeship, there will be training in the Waterford or Tralee Training Centre.

Further details about the Apprenticeship Scheme can be requested by filling out this form - click here