Career Area:

Procurement

Job Description:

Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do – but also about each other.  We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here – we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.

Caterpillar is looking for a Senior Supplier Development Engineer. If you want to be part of a diverse team where everyone has a voice – do not hesitate to apply! 

Focusing on the UK region, acting as a liaison between the company and our external partners, you will make sure they are performing according to Caterpillar’s standards and values. 

What Will You Do: 

Lead APQP process for complex welded structures, ensuring alignment with product and process requirements from concept to launch.

Own supplier quality strategy, ensuring defect-free products that meet all technical specifications and regulatory standards. Review and approve PPAPs with a focus on risk mitigation and long-term quality assurance.

Lead and execute supplier audits, ensuring full compliance with internal policies and external regulations, while identifying systemic improvement opportunities.

Act as a strategic partner to suppliers, guiding performance improvement through advanced process controls, lean methodologies, and robust quality plans.

Resolve high-impact quality issues, coordinating cross-functional teams and supplier leadership to implement sustainable corrective actions.

Develop and implement advanced inspection and testing protocols for incoming materials, ensuring early detection and prevention of quality risks.

Collaborate closely with Engineering during CPPD, influencing design decisions to optimize manufacturability and supplier capability from the early development phase.

What You Will Have:​

Engineering degree and equivalent senior-level experience in manufacturing or quality management.

Proven leadership in supplier collaboration, particularly in developing complex heavy fabrications.

Expert-level experience in APQP, with a track record of driving quality planning for high-impact components.

Advanced proficiency in PFMEA, Control Plans, MSA, and process capability studies, especially for complex welded structures.

Deep technical knowledge of welding processes and specifications, with the ability to guide and challenge suppliers.

Broad understanding of manufacturing technologies, including machining, laser cutting, and bending.

Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders across all levels.

Experience mentoring and coaching peers, serving as a technical authority within the team.

Strategic mindset in process improvement, with the ability to plan, monitor, and optimize supplier performance.

Strong grasp of supplier management and evaluation frameworks, with the ability to apply them in complex, real-world scenarios.

Willingness to travel up to 50%, including a potential 6-month assignment focused on supplier development.

On-site presence required, working a 5-day week when not traveling to suppliers.

Best Candidates Will Also Have: 

Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering degree and/or experience Multiple years of experience in procurementSix sigma blackbelt, knowledge on DMAIC methodology

What We Offer:  

Annual salary of gross 63 000 – 80 000 GBP based on the level of experience 27 days annual leave plus Bank holidays Up to 18 % annual Bonus,  Contributory pension scheme - Caterpillar will double the employee's contribution Up to 10%,  Contributory share scheme - Caterpillar will match 50% of the employee's contribution,  Optional flexible benefits including access to private health and dental care plans, EV car lease etc. Private medical care Gross £600/month car allowance, 

The Power of Everyone  

At Caterpillar, we believe each person is unique and valued and are committed to ensuring that our workplace is diverse and representative of the many customers we serve around the globe. Different perspectives help us achieve our best work and come together to form a high-performing Caterpillar team that makes positive changes in the communities where we live and work.

Posting Dates:

August 5, 2025 - August 21, 2025

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply

Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.