Company: Caterpillar Inc.
Location: Stafford
Posted: April 17th, 2026
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.
Job Title: Test & Engine Finish Engineering Apprenticeship Level 3
Location: Stafford
Salary: Starting salary c.£15,932
Benefits: 25 Days Annual Leave, Employee Discount/Benefits Scheme, Employee Assistance Scheme, 5% Annual Bonus, Pension Scheme, Share Scheme, Free Parking, Free EV Charging
Working Hours: 37 hours per week (dependant on the college days and age of the apprentice; this will be spread across 4 days of the week)
We are Caterpillar. When you join Caterpillar, you are joining a team of makers, innovators and doers. We are the people who roll up our sleeves and do the work to build a better world. We don’t just talk about progress and innovation. We make it happen. We are proud of that, because it helps our customers build and power the world we live in – the roads, hospitals, homes and infrastructure. One Company, Limitless Opportunities Caterpillar 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. We do business on every continent, principally operating through three primary segments – Construction Industries, Resource Industries, and Power & Energy – and providing financing and related services through our Financial Products segment. Careers at Caterpillar are limitless and with our support you can create the career you want. It’s your time and talent, make it count.
The Apprenticeship: “Let’s do the work”
Manufacturing Operations are responsible for leading production employees to execute the assembly, test, paint, and engine finish processes within the manufacturing facility including the quality department and logistics department, to deliver a world-class product to our customers. This role utilises the Caterpillar Production System (Lean Manufacturing) Principles to deliver People, Quality, Velocity and Cost (PQVC) improvements and results.
The purpose of this level 3 engineering apprenticeship role is to develop individuals within the manufacturing department. They are responsible for the assembly, testing, painting, and shipping of the engines to the customers, ensuring defect-free engines are shipped on time. The role is focused on the Test & EFD (Engine Finish Department).
Throughout the apprenticeship you will be adding value to the product and the business, while working towards achieving a recognised qualification which will set you up well for a successful career within Perkins Engines. During this 4-year apprenticeship, you will experience different aspects of manufacturing and work embedded with the Test & EFD team, solving real-world problems. You will collaborate with people in Caterpillar facilities worldwide. Engine Testing ensures that all engines assembled at our Stafford facility meet all customer requirements and regulatory standards. Engine Finishing handles spraying, painting and final customer preparations of the engine, receiving a tested engine from Test and then finishing for final quality inspection prior to shipping, in collaboration with logistics and quality.
Even though your apprenticeship will be based within the Test & EFD Department, you will experience rotations in the following departments:
What we need from you
Note: Equivalent qualifications are welcome. You can apply with predicted grades. If successful at interview, the offer will be conditional on achieving required grades before September 2026.
Our training provider is South Staffordshire College (Cannock campus). There is no free parking for those who attend who have their own cars.
Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, you will be a qualified Engineering Technician and may be offered a position within our world-class team with long-term progression opportunities. You will have a department manager, a training manager, and an apprentice coach to support your development and regular reviews.
The panel cannot make assumptions when shortlisting; please demonstrate your qualifications and experience on your CV. Availability of shortlisting may depend on the number of applications.
April 14, 2026 – May 14, 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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