At a Glance
- Tasks: Enhance supplier processes and quality at Caterpillar's Desford facility.
- Company: Join a leading global manufacturing company with a commitment to quality.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, bonuses, and a contributory pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible benefits and excellent career growth opportunities await you.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on supplier performance and quality standards.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of Quality Management Systems and engineering drawings required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
You will work directly with all suppliers supporting the Desford facility, strengthening their processes, improving quality outcomes, and ensuring alignment with Caterpillar standards. Your work with the global Purchasing Category teams will focus on implementing effective improvement plans, process controls, reducing defect rates, and building strong, collaborative relationships across the supply base.
Responsibilities
- Lead immediate containment actions to protect production and customers, and drive structured root‑cause investigations using tools such as 8D, 5 Why, Ishikawa/Fishbone diagrams, and DMAIC.
- Support suppliers in implementing corrective and preventative actions, improving process capability, and developing robust quality‑assurance plans that deliver sustainable improvements, including on‑site verification as necessary.
- Monitor trends in supplier quality issues (PPM, defect types, repeat issues); lead improvement projects with chronically under‑performing suppliers and support supplier audits when quality performance concerns arise.
- Assess supplier components against engineering drawings, specifications, and quality standards, using appropriate inspection and evaluation methods to identify risks early.
- Review manufacturing practices, process controls, and quality systems, confirming compliance with Caterpillar requirements and identifying improvement opportunities.
- Interpret engineering prints, electrical and hydraulic schematics, and technical information to assess capability, validate audit findings, and support effective quality decisions, particularly within electrical assembly or paint.
- Communicate clearly and professionally with urgency when required, adapting style for both technical and non‑technical audiences and presenting audit findings and quality insights in a concise, actionable way.
- Lead structured problem‑solving activities independently, applying recognised tools to identify root causes and implement robust corrective actions.
- Apply experience with Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) submissions: review documentation, understand non‑conformities, and ensure compliance with customer and internal requirements.
- Drive supplier performance by setting expectations, monitoring compliance, addressing gaps, evaluating process capability and quality-system maturity, and influencing improvement while maintaining strong and accountable supplier relationships.
Qualifications / Experience
- Knowledge of Quality Management Systems (QMS) requirements within manufacturing environments; ability to identify compliance gaps and support suppliers in meeting regulatory and operational expectations.
- Confidence in reading and interpreting engineering drawings and technical schematics to validate product and process suitability and support quality activities.
- Knowledge of AIAG quality tools (APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC).
Benefits & Compensation
- Contract: Full Time.
- Annual leave: 27 days plus bank holidays.
- Bonus opportunity: up to 10% purchase and sale.
- Contributory pension scheme – Caterpillar doubles your contribution up to 10%.
- Contributory share scheme – Caterpillar matches 50% of your contribution.
- Optional flexible benefits including dental, health & vision care plans and an EV car lease.
Site Supplier Development Engineer in Earl Shilton employer: Caterpillar
Caterpillar is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment for Site Supplier Development Engineers at the Desford facility. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have access to comprehensive training and development opportunities, alongside a generous benefits package that includes 27 days of annual leave, a contributory pension scheme, and flexible health options. The collaborative culture fosters innovation and teamwork, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in quality management.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Site Supplier Development Engineer in Earl Shilton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with suppliers. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills in interviews! Be ready to discuss how you've tackled quality issues or improved processes in the past. Use specific examples to demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that align with your values. Check out our website for roles that match your skills and passion, especially in quality management and supplier development.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can keep you top of mind and show your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit.
We think you need these skills to ace Site Supplier Development Engineer in Earl Shilton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Site Supplier Development Engineer role. Highlight your experience with quality management systems and any relevant tools like 8D or DMAIC. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about improving supplier processes and how you can contribute to our team. Keep it concise but impactful, showing us your personality and enthusiasm.
Showcase Relevant Experience:When detailing your experience, focus on specific projects where you've led improvements or tackled quality issues. We love seeing concrete examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles, especially in manufacturing environments.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about StudySmarter and what we stand for.
How to prepare for a job interview at Caterpillar
✨Know Your Quality Tools
Familiarise yourself with the quality management tools mentioned in the job description, like 8D, 5 Why, and DMAIC. Be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in past experiences to drive improvements and solve problems.
✨Understand Supplier Relationships
Prepare examples of how you've built strong relationships with suppliers or stakeholders in previous roles. Highlight your communication skills and adaptability when dealing with both technical and non-technical audiences.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Brush up on your ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and schematics. Be prepared to explain how you’ve applied this skill in assessing supplier components or validating audit findings.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Think of specific instances where you've led structured problem-solving activities. Be ready to walk through your thought process and the tools you used to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
