Supplier Development Engineer

Job Description

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: Procurement

Job Title: Supplier Development Engineer
Salary: £47,000 to £60,000 based on skills demonstrated
Contract: Full time & permanent
Location: Desford, Leicestershire

We’re looking for a proactive and quality-focused Supplier Development Engineer to join our team. You will own supplier quality and performance across the full product lifecycle, from New Product Introduction (NPI) through to warranty. Working closely with suppliers and internal stakeholders, you will drive compliance to standards, resolve issues, and deliver continuous improvements that support quality, delivery, and cost objectives.

• Own the introduction of purchased hydraulic components, ensuring quality, capacity, and readiness for production
• Investigate and resolve supplier and production issues using structured problem-solving methods
• Lead supplier quality planning and approval activities (APQP, PPAP) to ensure robust processes
• Conduct supplier audits and assessments to develop capability and ensure compliance
• Monitor supplier performance and drive improvement actions to close gaps against targets
• Support supplier selection and sourcing decisions, ensuring alignment to business requirements
• Collaborate cross-functionally to deliver quality, cost, and delivery outcomes across the supply base

• Problem Solving:
  Apply structured techniques to identify, analyse, and resolve supplier quality issues. You use fact-based approaches to assess options, understand stakeholder impact, and implement effective solutions.
• Process Improvement:
  Identify process gaps and implement improvements that enhance performance, consistency, and efficiency. You focus on critical workflows, apply controls, and contribute to sustained continuous improvement.
• Quality Orientation:
  Apply quality tools and standards (e.g. APQP, PPAP) to ensure supplier processes are controlled, compliant, and capable. You support validation and approval of components and processes, monitor quality outcomes, and address root causes to deliver consistent performance.
• Effective Communications:
  Communicate clearly across teams and with suppliers, adapting your approach to the audience. You share technical information effectively, support collaboration, and build alignment to achieve business objectives.

• Support the introduction of new equipment and manufacturing technologies, ensuring smooth implementation into production
• Use virtual build or simulation tools to test and improve processes before release to the shopfloor
• Apply knowledge of production systems and industrial engineering principles to improve workflow and efficiency
• Use structured quality tools (e.g. 8D, 5 Why, fishbone) to support issue resolution and continuous improvement

• 27 days annual leave + bank holidays, opportunity to buy additional holiday
• 10% 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
• Employee Support Networks – join groups that offer support, connection, and a sense of community
• Optional flexible benefits including access to private health and dental care plans, EV car lease etc

Travel: up to 50% global travel. This position requires working onsite five days a week.

Posting Dates: June 11, 2026 - June 26, 2026

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