Test Operator

Test Operator

Shrewsbury Full-Time 26000 - 39000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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Caterpillar Inc.

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join our team to test engines and transmissions, ensuring quality and performance.
  • Company: Caterpillar Inc. is a global leader in sustainable engineering solutions.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, bonuses, pension schemes, and flexible benefits.
  • Other info: This role may require additional security screening due to export control laws.
  • Why this job: Be part of a diverse team shaping the future of green energy solutions.
  • Qualifications: Modern apprenticeship or NVQ, with experience in engine testing preferred.

The predicted salary is between 26000 - 39000 £ per year.

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.

Career Area

Operations

Job Title: Test Operator

Salary Grade: £15.74 ph

Location: Shrewsbury

Benefits

  • 25 days annual leave
  • Up to 6% 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.

Job Summary

An opportunity has arisen for a Test Operative, working in the Test Department at Shrewsbury. This position will see the successful candidate join the night shift team. We are looking for a versatile individual who can work throughout the Test Department at a grade D level. We would love a self starter with the enthusiasm and tenacity to succeed. We are looking for someone proactive with a thorough approach to testing various engines and transmission arrangements, verse the current EAS. You should have the ability to navigate various business systems and provide clear and concise input to the assembly and support groups as and when required.

Job Responsibilities And Duties

  • Become fully trained in testing transmissions and engines
  • Manage activity as required in the bay and cell as requested by the team leader
  • Ensure full and accurate detail is logged into the test system, allowing full traceability thereafter.
  • Provide verbal and hands on assistance to assembly and support teams as required.
  • Follow the EAS (Engine Acceptance Schedule) to test product.

Skills And Experience

  • Modern apprenticeship, NVQ or equivalent experience.
  • Able to work to SWES, written or verbal instructions.
  • An awareness of test programs and software
  • Previous experience in functionality testing or building of engines / transmissions and / or MOT garage experience.

Candidates may have gained

  • A knowledge of Caterpillar Production Systems.
  • Basic use of Microsoft applications.

What You Will Get

This is a great opportunity to join the ever growing and modernizing test department. We strive on being a diverse and inclusive team who are always looking at ways to improve and develop both individually and as a team.

NB. The panel cannot make assumptions when shortlisting therefore please demonstrate your qualifications and experience on your CV relevant to the criteria outlined.

Pending the number of applications, the criteria for the position may be enhanced to facilitate shortlisting.

This job is subject to U.S. and U.K. rules concerning the export and protection of controlled or protected technologies or information, including, but not limited to, U.S. State Department regulations at International Traffic in Arms (ITAR), 22 C.F.R. 120 et. seq.; the Export Administration Regulation, 15 C.F.R. 730-774; and the Foreign Assets Control Regulations, 31 C.F.R. 500-598, and the United Kingdom Official Secrets Act 1989 (collectively, “Export Control and Protection of Information Laws”), and you may be subjected to additional security screening / checking.

Posting Dates

February 16, 2026 – February 25, 2026

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

Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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Test Operator employer: Caterpillar Inc.

Caterpillar Inc. is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and growth of its employees, offering a supportive work culture in Shrewsbury. With benefits such as 25 days of annual leave, a generous pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development, we empower our Test Operators to thrive in a diverse and inclusive environment while contributing to sustainable innovations that shape the future. Join us in building a better world together.
Caterpillar Inc.

Contact Detail:

Caterpillar Inc. Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Test Operator

Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with Caterpillar's products and their testing processes. Understanding the engines and transmissions you'll be working with will give you an edge during interviews and show your genuine interest in the role.

Tip Number 2

Network with current or former employees of Caterpillar, especially those in the Test Department. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when applying.

Tip Number 3

Demonstrate your problem-solving skills during any interactions with the company. As a Test Operator, you'll need to troubleshoot issues effectively, so showcasing examples of how you've done this in the past can set you apart.

Tip Number 4

Be prepared to discuss your experience with testing and quality assurance. Highlight any relevant projects or roles where you've had to follow strict guidelines, as this aligns closely with the responsibilities of the Test Operator position.

We think you need these skills to ace Test Operator

Engine Testing
Transmission Testing
Attention to Detail
Ability to Follow Instructions
Familiarity with EAS (Engine Acceptance Schedule)
Experience in Functionality Testing
Basic Microsoft Office Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Team Collaboration
Proactive Attitude
Traceability Logging
Hands-on Assistance
Adaptability to Various Business Systems
Communication Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Test Operator position at Caterpillar. Familiarise yourself with the specific skills they are looking for, such as experience in functionality testing of engines and transmissions.

Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Emphasise any previous roles that involved testing or working with engines and transmissions, and include any qualifications like a modern apprenticeship or NVQ.

Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention your proactive approach and ability to work with various business systems, as well as your commitment to contributing to Caterpillar's sustainability goals.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a role that requires logging accurate details into test systems.

How to prepare for a job interview at Caterpillar Inc.

Understand the Role

Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of a Test Operator. Familiarise yourself with terms like EAS and TCDM, as well as the testing processes involved in engine and transmission functionality.

Show Your Enthusiasm

Caterpillar values self-starters with enthusiasm and tenacity. Be prepared to share examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your proactive approach and passion for problem-solving in a team environment.

Prepare for Technical Questions

Expect technical questions related to testing engines and transmissions. Brush up on your knowledge of Caterpillar Production Systems and be ready to discuss any relevant experience you have, such as working in an MOT garage or similar environments.

Ask Insightful Questions

At the end of the interview, take the opportunity to ask questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or the company's sustainability initiatives. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the company’s mission.

Test Operator
Caterpillar Inc.
Location: Shrewsbury
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