Senior Production Manager (Process Validation Area) in Peterlee

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.

The Opportunity

Our Senior Production Manager for PVA (Process Validation Area) will lead operational readiness for multiple complex ATK (Articulated Trucks) New Product Introduction (NPI) projects. This role will involve planning and execution of new manufacturing process validation; operator training and coordination of validation machine builds from program launch through to factory introduction.

Job Duties/Responsibilities:

• Coordinating with Design & Manufacturing Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain & NPI leadership to plan and manage manufacturing validation and build activity for each deliverable within ATK NPI programs.
• Overseeing cross‑functional resource planning and communicating with stakeholders and participating functional areas: addressing and resolving problems to achieve project goals.
• Motivating and developing team members.
• Developing MGPP and strategy for advanced manufacturing inclusion within the Peterlee facility.
• Communicating with customers and managing expectations: ensuring effective use of department controls and reporting mechanisms.

Degree Requirement:

Degree or equivalent experience desired.

Skills, experience & qualifications you will have:

• Problem Solving: Knowledge of approaches, tools and techniques for recognizing, anticipating and resolving organizational, operational or process problems; ability to apply knowledge of problem solving appropriately to diverse situations. Level: Extensive Knowledge.
• Influencing: Knowledge of effective influencing tactics and strategies; ability to impact decisions within and outside own organization. Level: Extensive Knowledge.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: Knowledge of successful approaches and techniques for dealing with change; ability to adapt to a changing environment and be comfortable with change. Level: Working Knowledge.
• Analytical Thinking: Knowledge of techniques and tools that promote effective analysis; ability to determine the root cause of organizational problems and create alternative solutions that resolve these problems. Level: Extensive Experience.
• Planning and Organizing: Knowledge of the process of planning and arranging tasks and resources; ability to plan and organize both time and resources to get things completed while structuring and maintaining work in a systematic and highly methodical way. Level: Extensive Experience.

Top candidates will have:

• Extensive operational knowledge for ATK (Articulated Trucks) or Large Off‑Road Machine manufacturing processes.
• Execution experience for all phases of a new product introduction program.
• Extensive operational and leadership experience, including the ability to form cohesive high‑performing teams from multiple business functions, adapt leadership style to maximise team performance and output.
• Ability to work to deadlines and demanding situations.

Benefits:

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, including additional service days awarded every two years up to a maximum of five days.
• Up to 18% annual bonus.
• Car cash allowance.
• Defined Contribution Pension Scheme (company contribution double up to 10%).
• Share Ownership Scheme (50% company matched).
• Personalised flexible benefits.
• Employee Assistance Programme.

What You Will Get:

We look forward to welcoming the successful candidate to our dynamic, diverse and friendly team. We have a culture of openness, autonomy, support and personal development as well as a continuous drive for improvement.

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 100 years, we’ve been helping customers build a better, more sustainable world and are committed to contributing to a reduced‑carbon future. Our innovative products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value that helps customers succeed.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply. This position requires working onsite five days a week.