Design and Development Engineering (Graduate Scheme) in Desford

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, so we can all enjoy living in it.

We currently have lots of exciting opportunities for Graduates to join Caterpillar across the UK! New graduates are critical to the success of our business. You power our success, and we are committed to empowering yours. After all, when your work can impact the entire world, it’s important to do work that matters.

Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines, and diesel‑electric locomotives. Since 1925, we’ve been driving sustainable progress and helping customers build a better world through innovative products and services. Our core values (Integrity, Excellence, Teamwork, Commitment and Sustainability) are key to our success.

Diversity at Caterpillar: When we leverage our people’s experiences, backgrounds, and cultures in an inclusive environment, we enable every individual to achieve their full potential, which drives business success. We are proud to be active partners with both the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) & Women’s Engineering Society (WES). Caterpillar is an equal opportunity employer, and we welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds.

What experiences can we offer you? From day one, you’re set up to thrive at Caterpillar: helpful training, relatable mentors, global experience, competitive salary package, work‑life balance, and the growth opportunities you expect with global business. Your two‑year Graduate Development Programme will be tailored to ensure you gain a broad understanding of your chosen field and build the foundations of a successful career.

Job duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Design – Use your engineering knowledge to design, analyse and improve engine installations, powertrain or hydraulic components and systems, HVAC and ducting systems, operator ergonomics or machine structures.
• Simulation – Develop simulation models to predict the durability and performance of engines, powertrains, hydraulics, fabricated structures, components, and systems.
• Test and Validation – Design tests, test rigs, run test programs and analyse the data.
• Performance – Create simulation models of entire power systems, develop control strategies and deploy them on machines.
• Analytics – Take the vast quantity of data we record every day and interrogate it for insights.

In addition, we offer you a mentor to support your professional development and help you achieve Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status with your chosen institution. Our professional development scheme is accredited and highly regarded by the IMechE and the IET.

What happens after the graduate scheme? Upon successful completion of the scheme, you will progress into a key role where you will directly contribute to the operational and project activity that is at the heart of our business.

Who are we looking for? We are looking for people who are open minded, excellent problem solvers and who have an ability to learn quickly. You will be motivated, hard‑working, and will embrace change. In return for your dedication and hard work, you will be provided with excellent career opportunities and strong support for your personal and career development.

Applicants will be on target to achieve a minimum of 2:2 honours degree level in a relevant discipline: Agricultural, Automotive, Design or Mechanical Engineering.

Recruitment Process Guidelines: Here is a brief overview of what you can expect when applying to our Early Career roles…

• Online Application: Complete the online application and attach your CV.
• Stage one – Video Interview: If selected, you will be invited to complete a user‑friendly video interview.
• Stage two - Assessment Centre: The Assessment Centre Day will look at a range of behaviours such as teamwork, decision‑making, communication, and problem‑solving.
• Stage three – Offer: After the Assessment Centre, the Caterpillar team will review the feedback and extend offers to our preferred candidates.

Graduates will start on 7th September 2026. We look forward to receiving your application to join Caterpillar!