Supplier Development Engineer

2 Days Old

Supplier Development Engineer
Location: Shrewsbury or Stafford
Contract: 12-month contract (with possibility of extension)
Rate: Up to £42.04 per hour (SG23)
Start Date: February 2026
Working Pattern: Onsite, full time
Travel: UK & Europe (2-3 times per month)
About the Role
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Supplier Development Engineer (SDE) to join a small, highly skilled team supporting our clients European supplier network. This role plays a critical part in ensuring suppliers deliver world-class quality, on time and defect-free, to facilities across the globe.
You will act as the key link between suppliers and our clients manufacturing sites, working hands-on with suppliers to improve processes, close quality gaps, and support both new and legacy product introductions.
Key Responsibilities
Act as the primary interface between suppliers and Caterpillar facilities
Develop strong supplier relationships and proactively drive quality improvements
Conduct supplier process and quality audits to ensure robust controls are in place
Support suppliers with APQP, CPPD, PPAP, and NPI activities from design concept through full product life cycle (cradle to grave)
Review supplier proposals for new product introductions and challenge processes to ensure due diligence
Manage daily quality issues at part number level, facilitating root cause analysis and 8D closure
Lead and review PFMEA, Control Plans, Gage R&R , and other APQP documentation
Ensure timely completion and approval of PPAP prior to delivery of new parts
Monitor and challenge supplier capacity data, including RCCP and OEE
Coordinate supplier improvement plans where quality performance is below expectations
Perform supplier QMS audits and Supplier Evaluation Surveys (SES), including new supplier assessments
Support Material Review Board (MRB) activities in collaboration with Inspection teams
Deploy Lean principles to drive built-in quality across the supplier network
Participate in Supplier Performance Management Reviews and regular supplier meetings
Essential Skills & Experience
3-5 years' experience in a manufacturing environment
Experience in foundry and/or machining environments (preferred)
Strong understanding of engineering drawings and specifications
Hands-on experience with metrology equipment and quality standards
Proven experience with root cause analysis (5 Whys, 8D)
Excellent communication skills - able to engage from shop floor to senior leadership
Strong written English skills with the ability to produce clear, detailed reports
Comfortable working in demanding industrial environments, with strong safety awareness
Highly Desirable
APQP and PPAP experience
Experience participating in or leading PFMEA activities
Knowledge of Lean manufacturing principles
Additional Information
Working hours:
Shrewsbury: 37.5 hours per week
Stafford: 37 hours per week
Core hours: Monday-Thursday 8:00-16:45, Friday 8:00-12:30
One-stage interview process (Teams, STAR-based)

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Location:
Stafford
Salary:
Up to £42.04 per hour
Job Type:
PartTime
Category:
Engineering

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