At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a Manufacturing Test Engineer, testing vehicle systems and ensuring top-notch performance.
- Company: Caterpillar Inc., a global leader in construction and mining equipment.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, a bonus, and a contributory pension scheme.
- Other info: Limitless career opportunities and a commitment to sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a hands-on role with cutting-edge vehicle technology.
- Qualifications: Engineering knowledge and problem-solving skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 57000 £ per year.
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. Together, we are building a better world.
The Opportunity: Interested in working hands-on with full vehicle systems in a high-volume manufacturing environment? As a Manufacturing Test Engineer, you will play a key role in end-of-line (EOL) and functional testing, ensuring machines meet defined performance specifications across engine, hydraulic and integrated systems.
Working within a highly skilled Manufacturing Engineering team, you will support production by diagnosing test failures, improving test capability and embedding robust, repeatable processes. You’ll work closely with engineering, maintenance and operations teams to deliver reliable, high-quality products while driving continuous improvement across production systems.
As a Manufacturing Test Engineer, you are accountable for, but not limited to:
- Execute and support end-of-line (EOL) vehicle testing across engine, hydraulic and integrated systems, ensuring machines meet defined performance and quality standards.
- Diagnose and resolve test failures across vehicle systems, test equipment and control logic, acting as an escalation point to support production recovery and minimise downtime.
- Analyse test data and system outputs to validate performance and support structured root cause investigations.
- Support and maintain production test systems, ensuring reliable execution, data integrity and effective fault detection.
- Develop and implement improvements to production test processes, diagnostics and fault-finding methods to enhance robustness, repeatability and first-time pass rates.
- Support New Product Introduction (NPI) by defining test requirements, validating methods and introducing new test capability into production.
- Ensure test processes and equipment operate in line with safety, quality and environmental standards, supporting compliant and reliable manufacturing operations.
What You Can Demonstrate:
- Engineering – Manufacturing (MFG): Applies manufacturing engineering principles to support EOL testing and production systems, ensuring equipment and processes meet performance, safety and quality requirements.
- Problem Solving: Uses structured fault-finding techniques to diagnose and resolve production test failures across vehicle systems and test equipment.
- Analytical Thinking: Interprets test data, signals and system outputs to validate performance against specifications and support root cause investigations.
- Manufacturing Processes: Operates within and improves production test processes to ensure consistency, repeatability and efficient throughput.
What You May Have:
- Applies knowledge of production test systems to ensure reliable execution, maintain data integrity and improve fault detection capability within manufacturing environments.
- Demonstrates practical understanding of vehicle systems (engine, hydraulics, controls) to diagnose behaviour during test and effectively resolve system-level issues.
- Utilises structured problem-solving methodologies (e.g. 5 Why, Fishbone, 8D) to identify root causes and implement corrective actions that support production recovery and prevent recurrence.
- Contributes to New Product Introduction (NPI) by supporting the integration of new test methods and enhancing production test capability to meet evolving product requirements.
Benefits: 27 days annual leave + bank holidays, opportunity to buy additional holiday, 10% 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, Employee Support Networks – join groups that offer support, connection, and a sense of community, optional flexible benefits including access to private health and dental care plans, EV car lease etc.
Travel: Up to 5% UK travel may be required, including visits to other facilities as needed. This position requires working onsite five days a week.
Manufacturing Test Engineer – Vehicle Systems in Desford employer: Caterpillar Brazil
Caterpillar Inc. is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, where employees are empowered to shape the future of manufacturing in a sustainable way. Located in Desford, Leicestershire, the company offers extensive benefits including generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for professional growth across various sectors. With a commitment to employee well-being and community involvement, Caterpillar provides a meaningful and rewarding environment for those looking to make a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Test Engineer – Vehicle Systems in Desford
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Caterpillar Brazil, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Manufacturing Test Engineer – Vehicle Systems in Desford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Caterpillar Brazil specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Caterpillar Brazil
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Caterpillar Brazil, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Caterpillar Brazil value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
