Lean Manufacturing Apprentice – Level 2

Level 2 Manufacturing apprentice at Caterpillar in Desford, gaining hands-on assembly and production experience while completing a Diploma in Manufacturing and Lean Manufacturing Operative Standard, focusing on teamwork, safety, and efficiency.

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.

Salary: Year 1: £16,673.73 circa + Production Bonus

Start your career in manufacturing with Caterpillar. This hands-on apprenticeship gives you real shopfloor experience while you work towards your Level 2 Diploma in Manufacturing and the Lean Manufacturing Operative Standard.

You’ll be working in a fast paced, physical environment, supporting the build of Caterpillar products. You’ll be on your feet completing repeat tasks to build speed and accuracy and working closely with your team to meet daily production targets. Full training on tools, safety and processes is provided, along with regular breaks and ongoing support.

What you will learn:

• Assembly work – building and putting together parts to Caterpillar quality standards

• Standard processes – following clear instructions as part of the Caterpillar Production System

• Safe working – using hand tools, power tools and lifting equipment safely and correctly

• Working on the line – helping your team hit daily production targets

• Problem solving – sharing ideas to make work safer and more efficient

NB. The panel cannot make assumptions when shortlisting therefore please demonstrate your qualifications and experience on your CV relevant to the criteria outlined. Pending the number of applications, the criteria for the position may be enhanced to facilitate shortlisting.

What you can demonstrate:

• GCSE English & Maths Grade 3/D or above (or equivalent) plus two other subjects

• Ability to travel to the Desford site every day

• Willingness to learn and interest in manufacturing

• Reliability, teamwork and a positive attitude

• Ability to follow instructions and work safely

• Commitment to completing the apprenticeship and developing your skills

Predicted grades are accepted — any offer will depend on you achieving the required results before September 2026.

Important: When applying, clearly show your qualifications and any relevant experience. We cannot make assumptions when shortlisting. If we receive a high number of applications, criteria may be tightened.

What You Will Get

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 Energy & Transportation – and providing financing and related services through our Financial Products segment.

Careers at Caterpillar are limitless, we have opportunities in Engineering, Human Resources, Manufacturing, Marketing, Sales, Supply Chain and so much more. You can create the career you want. It’s your time and talent, make it count.

Our Sustainability Commitment

Caterpillar has a long-standing commitment to sustainability, one of our five Values in Action. It is part of who we are and what we do. We actively lead sustainable green initiatives to preserve the environment, help reduce poverty with the Caterpillar Foundation and stay involved in the communities we help build.

Training & Benefits

• Full training and support throughout your apprenticeship, including your Level 2 Diploma in Manufacturing and Lean Manufacturing Operative Standard

• 27 days annual leave + bank holidays, with the option to buy additional holiday Production & Attendance Bonus

• Contributory pension scheme — Caterpillar doubles your contribution up to 10%

• Contributory share scheme — Caterpillar matches 50% of your contribution

• Employee Support Networks for community, support and inclusion

• Optional flexible benefits including dental plans, EV car lease and more

• Free onsite parking and access to Caterpillar employee discounts

We believe diversity and inclusion are fundamental to innovation. We respect and value people with different opinions, experiences and backgrounds and believe that by working together, we can produce better results than any of us can achieve alone. Caterpillar is an equal opportunity employer, and we welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds.

Just a quick heads-up: We start reviewing applications as soon as they come in, so if you’re interested, don’t wait too long! We may close the advert early if we feel we’ve got a strong pool of potentially suitable applicants.