Darling's Apprenticeship Program

Darling's is partnering with Educate Maine to offer a registered apprenticeship program for individuals looking to gain experience and build a career as an Automotive Technician I. Those who complete their apprenticeship will continue their employment at Darling's as an experienced Automotive Technician. This is a full-time position in which apprentices are paid employees of Darling's.

Automotive Technician I Apprenticeship - Are you interested in building your knowledge and skills to start a career as an Automotive Technician? Apprentices will learn on the job over the course of 2,000 hours (one year full-time, longer for part-time) in a specially designed in-house training program at Darling's. Apprentices will receive supplemental training through the Vehicle Manufacturer's online learning platform. Apprentices will also be eligible to receive the following industry certifications: Maine State Motor Vehicle Inspection License, ASE Level 1: Suspension and Steering, ASE Level 1: Brakes, and EPA Section 609 - ASE Refrigerant Recovery and Recycling 
Apprentices will learn and work closely with subject matter experts and mentors. Apprentices will learn and perform essential job functions related to:

  • Performing basic vehicle maintenance
  • Testing and replacing batteries
  • Performing used and pre-delivery vehicle inspections
  • Performing fluid and brake services
  • Performing minor and major services and repairs
  • Replacing and recording tires
  • Performing fuel systems replacements, cleanings, and services
  • Performing software updates
  • Performing light diagnoses
  • Performing mechanical, electrical, and warranty repairs
 
Benefits - Apprentices will receive:
  • Paid on-the-job training (OJT) in a well-paying, meaningful job that can support you long-term and provide opportunities for advancement. OJT consists of supervised learning of a clearly defined set of industry skills by a subject matter expert and an assigned mentor.
  • Foundational knowledge through relevant instruction classes that you can quickly and easily apply to your OJT. 
  • Progressive wage increases throughout your apprenticeship as you gain and demonstrate mastery of skills. The starting wage is $20.00 per hour. As apprentices progress through the 1-year program and learn and master critical knowledge and skills, their wage will increase. Upon completion of the apprenticeship program, apprentices will expect to earn the more experienced worker wage of $24.00+ per hour. 
  • An industry-recognized, transferrable Credential of Value (certificate) upon successful program completion. This credential will be awarded by the State of Maine and is equivalent in value to a degree or other professional certification. It is valid for life and recognized by any employer in the United States. 
  • Access to additional professional development and networking opportunities through Educate Maine's Maine Career Catalyst program.
  • Credit towards your apprenticeship for previous experiences, such as completion of related classes, work experiences, or certifications (if eligible). 
  • Connection to support services to aid in the successful completion of your apprenticeship (as needed).
 
Eligibility - Applicants must:

  • Be at least 17 years of age
  • Possess a high school diploma or equivalent (GED/HiSet)
  • Be able to lift and carry heavy tools and equipment and lift and maneuver heavy objects (up to 25 lbs. frequently and up to 100 lbs. occasionally). 
  • Be able to bend, crouch, kneel, and work on foot for extended periods of time while working on projects above or below. 
  • Successful candidates do not need prior automotive experience to apply and be accepted into this position. However, prior related experience can certainly be a positive factor. Apprentices with prior experience may be awarded credit towards their apprenticeship program. 
 How to apply:
If you are interested in applying to our apprenticeship program, the first step is to complete a letter of inquiry through the form below.


Equal Opportunity Pledge:
Darling's will not discriminate against apprenticeship applicants or apprentices based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, genetic information, or because they are an individual with a disability or a person 40 years or older. Darling's will take affirmative action to provide equal opportunity in apprenticeship and will operate the apprenticeship program as required under Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations, part 30. 

This program has been developed in partnership with, and is endorsed by Educate Maine.

Darling's Apprenticeship Program

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