Product Development Technician

Career Area: Operations

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.

Job Title: Product Development Technician

Location: Peterlee, County Durham

Salary: £37,105.90pa (Non-inclusive of overtime or bonus)

Hours: Full Time, Permanent, 36.5 hours per week

Job Reference: R0000348159

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 an automated dump body paint plant. Machines from the site are shipped to customers around the world.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a qualified multi-skilled technician to join our Product Engineering Test & Development team, supporting the development, prototyping and validation of the next generation of Caterpillar Articulated Dump Trucks.

This hands‑on role offers technical variety, daily problem-solving and the opportunity to directly influence machine performance, reliability, and regulatory compliance. You will work across all machine systems, mechanical, hydraulic and electrical, within a dynamic, safety-focused engineering environment.

Job Duties/Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

Machine Build, Test & Validation

• Prepare development machines in line with test programme requirements, following engineering drawings, models, standard work and work instructions.
• Assemble and disassemble components and systems, ensuring compliance with hydraulic cleanliness and quality standards.
• Carry out repairs, updates and maintenance of the test and endurance fleet.
• Identify problems during test activities and actively contribute to root‑cause investigations and solution development.
• Document observations, performance feedback and improvement opportunities for Engineering teams.

Workshop Operations & Continuous Improvement

• Maintain an organised, safe and efficient working environment through 5S and Caterpillar safety standards.
• Support the continuous improvement of workshop processes, tooling and work methods.
• Share technical knowledge with peers and contribute to building team capability.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Product Engineering, Technicians, and wider cross-functional teams to ensure the successful execution of machine testing.
• Communicate effectively, escalating issues where required and supporting decision-making with clear information.

Academic Requirement

Engineering apprenticeship, HNC mechanical, ONC or equivalent experience desired.

Skills, experience & qualifications you will have:

• Proven experience in heavy plant, off-highway machinery, mechanical engineering, or a similar environment.
• Extensive mechanical fitting experience on mobile plant (e.g., ADTs, excavators, wheel loaders, dozers).
• The ability to read and interpret hydraulic and electrical schematics, technical drawings and engineering documentation.
• Strong communication skills, written and verbal, and the ability to work effectively in a team-based environment.
• Basic computer literacy (Microsoft 365 or equivalent).
• A strong track record of safe working, reliability, initiative and accountability

Top candidates will have:

• Experience working with Caterpillar products.
• Field-based fault finding, diagnostics, maintenance and repair of heavy equipment. Inclusive of engines, transmissions, etc.
• Experience with onboard diagnostics, data acquisition or instrumentation.
• Mobile hydraulics certification.
• Auto electrical experience

Benefits:

• 25 days of annual holidays, plus bank holidays, and holiday buy-in option
• Additional holiday hours awarded every 2-years (max x40 hours)
• Monthly bonus
• Defined Contribution Pension Scheme (Contribution doubled by Company up to 10%)
• Share Ownership Scheme (50% Company matched)
• Personalised Flexible Benefits (Medical/Dental Cover, etc)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Onsite Gym

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, personal development as well as 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 been helping customers build a better, more sustainable world and are committed and contributing to a reduced-carbon future. Our innovative products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value that helps customers succeed.

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

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