At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative projects in mechanical systems and optimise test facilities for future technologies.
- Company: Join Caterpillar, a global leader in sustainable engineering solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, bonuses, and flexible benefits tailored to your needs.
- Other info: Collaborate in a world-class testing facility with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of power systems and green energy solutions.
- Qualifications: Degree in Mechanical Engineering or extensive relevant experience required.
The predicted salary is between 57700 - 57700 £ per year.
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.
Benefits:
- 25 days annual leave
- Up to 12% 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 health and dental care plans, EV car lease, holiday purchase
- Employee Referral Scheme
About IPSD:
Caterpillar’s Industrial Power Systems Division (IPSD) designs, tests and manufactures 0.5 to 18L Cat® and Perkins engines that power over 5000 applications including Marine, Petroleum, Industrial Applications, Electric Generators, and Locomotives. Caterpillar’s company strategy includes sustainability as one of four focus areas and IPSD is engaged and actively preparing green energy solutions for the future.
Job Summary:
Within the Industrial Power Systems Division of Caterpillar, Test and Development Engineering is responsible for the execution of power system development programmes. This role will support the Test Facilities Engineering department in our dedicated state of the art Europe Research & Development Centre at the Caterpillar Business Park, Peterborough, UK. Reporting to the Engineering Manager, this senior‑level position plays a critical role in the design, optimisation, and strategic development of test facilities supporting current and next-generation drivetrain systems. The successful candidate will provide technical leadership across mechanical systems within test environments, with a strong focus on test cell infrastructure, services, and safety systems. The role requires ownership of complex engineering challenges, driving both operational excellence and future capability development across the facility.
What You Will Do:
- Lead evaluation, specification, and implementation of advanced powertrain and test cell technologies
- Design, develop, and optimise mechanical systems and associated services (cooling, fuel, exhaust, safety etc.)
- Provide technical leadership on facility upgrades to support future testing (ICE, hybrid, EV)
- Oversee and approve design modifications for facilities, test rigs, and equipment
- Lead cross‑functional project delivery with internal teams, suppliers, and contractors
- Conduct complex fault finding and root cause analysis across test facilities
- Develop, standardise, and improve engineering processes, procedures, and documentation
- Produce and review technical reports, clearly communicating risks and recommendations
- Ensure compliance with health, safety, and regulatory standards
- Plan and manage deliverables, conduct risk assessments (FMEA), lead design reviews, and maintain stakeholder communication
- Provide coaching and mentoring support for technical development of the team
What You Have:
Basic requirements:
- Significant experience in engine, powertrain, or electrified (EV/Hybrid) test facilities, including test cell infrastructure and associated safety systems
- Strong systems‑level thinking with the ability to integrate mechanical, thermal, and safety requirements
- Proven ability to lead technical projects and deliver complex engineering solutions
- Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills, with experience handling complex technical challenges
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence and provide clear technical direction
- Good understanding of manufacturing principles, including component production and assembly processes
- Broad design knowledge of engine and mechanical systems
- Proficiency in the use of CAD design using CREO (or equivalent 3D modelling tools)
- Ability to manage and deliver tasks independently to meet commitments
- Strong technical background. Degree‑qualified in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent), or extensive relevant industry experience
Desirable requirements:
- Demonstrated expertise in facility design, upgrade, and optimisation within a test or R&D environment
- High level of ownership, initiative, and continuous improvement mindset
- Proficiency with engineering tools, software, and data analysis platforms
- Experience in strategic facility planning or capital project delivery
- Strong understanding of core engine systems (rotating systems, valvetrain, lubrication, cooling, sealing, bolted joints)
- Experience collaborating with and managing suppliers to deliver high‑quality, cost‑effective solutions
Skills Required:
- Technical Excellence
- Product Design and Development
- Project Management
- Decision Making and Critical Thinking
- Effective Communication
- Managing Multiple Priorities
This is a fantastic opportunity to work as a part of a dedicated team in the Test and Development Engineering, collaborating with multiple cross functional areas to design, optimise and deliver solution to test Current and future product platforms in a world class testing facility.
About Caterpillar:
Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off‑highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel‑electric locomotives. For nearly 100 years, we’ve been helping customers build a better, more sustainable world and are committed and contributing to a reduced‑carbon future. Our innovative products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value that helps customers succeed.
This position requires working onsite five days a week.
Posting Dates: June 15, 2026 - June 28, 2026
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Senior Mechanical Engineer in Peterborough employer: Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation
Caterpillar is an exceptional employer that prioritises both innovation and employee well-being, offering a collaborative work culture in the heart of Peterborough. With competitive benefits such as a generous pension scheme, flexible health options, and opportunities for professional growth, employees are empowered to thrive while contributing to sustainable engineering solutions. Join a team dedicated to building a better world through cutting-edge technology and a commitment to excellence.
Contact Details:
Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Mechanical Engineer in Peterborough
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Engineering Events
Join local engineering meetups or industry conferences related to mechanical engineering. Whether it's a workshop or a career fair, these events are goldmines for networking and getting a foot in the door. Plus, you can showcase your passion and enthusiasm directly to potential employers like Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation.
✨Connect with Professors & Peers
Tap into your university’s resources—professors often have connections in the industry. Don’t be shy to ask about potential openings or recommendations. Your classmates might also know of companies hiring. Often, it’s who you know that gets you in front of the right people!
✨Highlight Your Projects and Practical Experience
When you land those interviews, make sure to talk about your hands-on projects or internships. Whether it's a design project or hands-on experience with CAD software, specific examples will make you stand out. Companies like Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation love to hear about practical applications of your skills.
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
Check out the careers page of Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation and apply directly through there. It shows initiative and interest in their specific values. Plus, you'll often find openings that aren't advertised on job boards, giving you a better chance to land that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Mechanical Engineer in Peterborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Expertise:In mechanical engineering, it’s vital to highlight your technical skills and projects. Make sure to include relevant software proficiency (like CAD tools) in your CV. If you've worked on specific engineering projects, detail your key contributions — we want to see how you’ve applied your skills in a practical setting!
Focus on Problem-Solving Examples:Employers in mechanical engineering love to see how you handle challenges. Use your cover letter to share specific instances where you’ve solved a complex problem or improved a design. This will show us you're not just knowledgeable but also capable of applying that knowledge effectively.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Include any relevant certifications or training that can set you apart from the competition. Whether it's coursework from your degree, a recognised certification, or extra training in new technologies, we love to see candidates who continuously improve their skill set. This tells us you're serious about your career in engineering!
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don’t forget to customise your CV for Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation and the Senior Mechanical Engineer role specifically. Pull examples from your experience that align with the job description — it shows us you've done your research and are genuinely interested in becoming part of the team. We recommend applying through our website to ensure your application gets to the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation
✨Brush Up on Your CAD Skills
Since mechanical engineering often involves design processes, be ready to showcase your proficiency in CAD software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Bring along a digital portfolio or even some sketches that demonstrate your design capabilities — it’s a great way to show what you can bring to the table at Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that test your understanding of engineering principles and problem-solving skills. You might get hypothetical scenarios where you need to design a component or troubleshoot a mechanical system. Practising these types of questions will give you the confidence to tackle whatever comes your way!
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a full-time mechanical engineer, collaboration is key! Be ready to share examples of past team projects or any experiences where you contributed to solving a complex problem with others. Demonstrating your ability to work in a team will resonate well with the interviewers at Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation.
✨Discuss Your Future Goals
Since this is a full-time position, your long-term vision is important. Be open about your career aspirations, whether it’s mastering a specific tool or leading projects. This shows that you're committed not just to learning but also to growing with Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation, making you a more appealing candidate.