Job Description: When you join Caterpillar, you become part of a global team that cares about more than just the work we do – we also care about each other. We are makers, problem solvers, and future builders creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We make progress and innovation happen with our customers, where we work and live.
Career Area
Engineering
Job Title
Senior Manufacturing Engineering Manager
Contract
Permanent
Salary
£88,251 - £110,071
Location
Peterlee, County Durham
Hours
Full‑Time – 36.50
Travel
Up to 10%
Hiring Manager
Paul Armstrong
Benefits
* 25 days annual leave
* Up to 31% annual bonus
* Contributory pension scheme – Caterpillar will double the employee's contribution up to 10%
* Monthly car cash allowance
* Contributory share scheme – Caterpillar will match 50% of the employee's contribution
* Optional flexible benefits including family health and dental plans, EV car lease, holiday purchase
About Caterpillar Peterlee
Caterpillar Peterlee is the worldwide source of Cat® Articulated Trucks, currently producing an 8‑model range used in many industries including mining, construction and aggregates. The facility’s manufacturing activities use the latest computer analysis techniques, robotic technology and automated dump body paint plant. Machines from the site are shipped to customers around the world.
The Opportunity
This position leads manufacturing engineering and tooling/robotics teams to ensure projects and processes align with organisational objectives and policies. The role focuses on managing team performance, fostering professional development, and driving continuous improvement aligned to regulatory and business requirements.
Primary Roles / Responsibilities
Manufacturing Engineering Team Responsibilities
* Process Engineering – Design, optimise and standardise manufacturing processes; conduct time studies, workflow analysis and process simulations; collaborate with production teams to improve efficiency and reduce waste
* Process Validation – Develop and execute validation protocols; ensure compliance with regulatory and quality standards; maintain documentation for traceability and audit readiness
* Capital MGPP Creation – Lead development of strategic VS improvements for MGPP creation and execution; define scope, budget, timeline and ROI for capital investments; coordinate cross‑functional input and approvals
* Strategic Leadership – Drive factory value stream transformations aligned with lean principles; champion Factory of the Future initiatives (automation, digitalisation, sustainability); align engineering strategy with long‑term business goals
* Manufacturing Systems & MBOM Creation – Develop and maintain Manufacturing Bills of Materials (MBOM); ensure accurate system integration with ERP/MES platforms; support digital thread continuity from design to execution
* NPI Governance & Process Design – Establish governance framework for New Product Introduction (NPI); design scalable processes aligned to factory capability and strategic product roadmap; collaborate with R&D, supply chain and operations for seamless launch
Tooling Team
* Design and develop manufacturing fixtures, jigs, and tooling solutions
* Oversee manufacturing, certification and commissioning of new tooling and fixturing
* Implement reactive and proactive tooling care strategies
* Collaborate with manufacturing engineering to optimise process tooling performance
* Maintain tooling inventory and lifecycle documentation
Robotics Team
* Program and optimise automated robot cells for production
* Respond to reactive issues impacting robotic operations
* Lead integration of new robotic systems and upgrades
* Conduct diagnostics and troubleshooting of robotic equipment
* Collaborate with manufacturing teams for system improvements
Skills, Experience & Qualifications
* Manufacturing Application Systems (Level Working Knowledge) – Knowledge of company and industry databases and applications used in a manufacturing environment; ability to operate, maintain and update these systems
* Manufacturing Equipment (Level Working Knowledge) – Knowledge of the electrical, mechanical and logistics equipment used in manufacturing; ability to safely operate, maintain, update and store them
* Planning (Tactical, Strategic) (Level Extensive Experience) – Knowledge of effective planning techniques and ability to contribute to operational (short‑term), tactical (1‑2 years) and strategic (3‑5 years) planning
* Decision Making and Critical Thinking (Level Expert) – Knowledge of the decision‑making process and associated tools and techniques; ability to accurately analyse situations and reach productive decisions based on informed judgment
* Technical Excellence (Level Extensive Experience) – Knowledge of a given technology and various application methods; ability to develop and provide solutions to significant technical challenges
* Communicating for Impact (Level Working Knowledge) – Knowledge of concepts, tools and techniques for effective listening and communicating; ability to apply these theories to receive, transmit and accurately interpret information and ideas
* Customer / Market Focus (Level Extensive Experience) – Understanding of shifting market priorities and ability to respond to internal and external customer needs consistently adding value
* Managing People (Level Extensive Experience) – Knowledge of managing people processes; ability to lead successful teams and address performance and conflict issues
* Collaborating Globally (Level Extensive Experience) – Knowledge of effective collaboration techniques and ability to build networks with people from different countries and cultures
* Influencing through Expertise (Level Extensive Experience) – Knowledge of influencing tactics and strategies; ability to use these to deepen own expertise and impact decisions within and outside the organisation
Top Candidates Will Have
* Well‑versed in manufacturing, robotics and tooling planning processes and technologies
* Strong collaboration skills across multiple teams, roles and cultures in a matrix organisation; extensive experience working with global teams
* Ability to work effectively across hierarchical levels and geographies
* A proven deep understanding of manufacturing engineering, tooling and robotics processes
* Analytical mindset to identify cost drivers and prioritise actions for maximum return
* Proven track record in leading and developing high‑performing teams with demonstrated talent growth
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, and 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 helped customers build a better, more sustainable world and are committed to a reduced‑carbon future. Our innovative products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value that helps customers succeed.
Pending the number of applications, the criteria for the position may be enhanced to facilitate short‑listing. The panel cannot make assumptions when short‑listing, therefore please demonstrate your qualifications and experience on your CV relevant to the criteria outlined.
Posting Dates
December 19, 2025 – January 10, 2026
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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