NISSAN is creating 30 new North-East jobs to help launch a new model.

The Sunderland car maker wants maintenance department staff to support work on the next-generation Qashqai.

The Japanese firm unveiled its new car earlier this month, with bosses saying the model will be a vital component to the long-term success of its record-breaking North-East factory.

Adrian Smart, Nissan’s Sunderland plant human resources director, said: “Our North-East plant is preparing for the company’s biggest car launch in many years and we are keen to hear from experienced maintenance technicians to support the introduction of this new Qashqai.

“The maintenance department plays a crucial role in supporting 24-hour production at the plant and this year has already supported the successful launches of the all-electric Leaf and the new Note, which have been very well received by customers.

“We are committed to developing our own staff through our apprenticeship programme and these additional experienced staff will also play an important role in supporting the next generation of Nissan staff.”

Nissan makes about 300,000 Qashqais at the Wearside plant every year, which is more than half of the site's total output.

It is holding a recruitment day for potential workers at Gateshead College Skills Academy between 9am and noon on Saturday, November 30.