Level 3 Engineering Fitter Apprenticeship

Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation; Hurn; On-site; GBP 14,000 - 18,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global engineering firm in Hurn is seeking two apprentices for their Engineering team at the Wimborne facility. This 48-month Level 3 degree apprenticeship includes on-the-job training and college-based learning, leading to a recognized qualification. Apprentices will earn a competitive salary starting at approximately £14,770 per year, work 37.5 hours per week, and enjoy 25 days annual leave along with various benefits. This role is an excellent opportunity for long-term career development and progression.

Benefits

25 days annual leave plus bank holidays

5% annual bonus

Flexible benefits

Share scheme

Pension scheme

Flexible working opportunities

Family-friendly policies

Qualifications

• Minimum of four GCSEs at grade C or 4 and above including English and Maths.
• Candidates with A-level or equivalent Level 3 qualifications may also apply.
• Degree holders with no prior qualifications in engineering can apply.

Responsibilities

• Develop engine assembly skills from disassembly to rebuild.
• Learn to rig and test engines using computerized diagnostic equipment.
• Ensure all supplied components are defect-free through quality inspection.
• Understand engineering design processes using CAD tools.

Skills

Problem solving

Communication

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Education

Minimum of four GCSEs at grade C or 4 and above

A-level or equivalent Level 3 qualifications

Job description

Career Area

Operations

Job Description

Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.

When you join Caterpillar, you’re joining a global team that 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.

About Caterpillar

We are Caterpillar Marine Power UK Ltd, located on the outskirts of Wimborne on Ferndown and Uddens Business Improvement District. The site is centrally positioned along the south coast and is close to national and international transport links.

With approximately 130 staff, the company has a distinguished history spanning over 50 years of manufacturing marine propulsion and auxiliary engines under the Cat® and Perkins Marine® brands. Genset packages range from 1.5 litre to 7.1 litre and 7.1 litre propulsion engines are produced at the Wimborne site. The facility boasts a wealth of experienced designers, engineers and technicians used to providing solutions for commercial, pleasure and military customers. From design, testing and building, each engine is proven before leaving the premises to ensure the best performance for the end‑user.

The Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship is a paid job where the employee learns and gains valuable, real‑life experience.

We are looking for two apprentices to join our Engineering team located at our Wimborne facility (BH21 7PW).

The 48‑month Level 3­degree apprenticeship scheme will enable you to grow and develop your capabilities. Alongside on‑the‑job training supported by relatable mentors, apprentices will spend at least 20% of their working hours completing college‑based learning with our partnered training provider, Bournemouth & Poole College, leading to a nationally recognised qualification, Level 3 Apprentice Engineering Fitter.

Apprentices will earn a competitive salary package, starting at approximately £14,770 per year, work 37.5 hours per week, receive 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, enjoy a 5% annual bonus, flexible benefits, a share scheme, a pension scheme, flexible working opportunities and family‑friendly policies.

You will attend Bournemouth and Poole College one day per week and work three to four days per week where you will be given the opportunity to experience different aspects of engineering, designed to provide you with an excellent foundation in the function.

You will be embedded in a highly skilled team and will also spend time in other areas of the business to fully understand our Manufacturing Operations and work with people across the facility. Apprenticeship roles will be based in each of the following areas:

• Engine Assembly: From the start of your apprenticeship you will be developed towards engines assembly. You will learn the full strip and rebuild of an engine, from initial assessment of the product (Vett) to final checking of fully assembled product to approved standard (Quality Gate) ready for test. This will include disassembly and assembly of components, sub‑assemblies and complete products, inspection of parts at Vett and learning about electrical components. You will also gain experience in Fault Finding and Root Cause & Corrective Actions (RCCA).
• Test & Finishing: You will learn to rig, and test engines and transmissions across all our product range. You will learn the computerised diagnostic equipment to monitor engines and transmissions on test and help identify faults for rectification to ensure they meet quality and performance standards. You will also learn minor engine disassembly/reassembly, bore checks and full paint spray within the Engine Finishing Department (EFD).
• Quality Inspection: You will join a specialised team responsible for ensuring all supplied components into the facility are defect‑free and cause no disruption to engine or transmission assembly. You will investigate any issues that arise, utilising a variety of measurement devices, from hand gauges to complex measuring equipment such as CMM, and produce reports that will help our suppliers fix issues and improve quality.
• Product Design Engineering: You will also start to learn the fundamentals of the engineering design process using our state‑of‑the‑art Computer Aided Design tools. During your apprenticeship you will have the opportunity to gain experience in other engineering and business functions, such as development engineering, applications engineering, project management, quality and manufacturing.

The programme is offered as a 48‑month fixed‑term contract. On successful completion of this apprenticeship there is a prospect of being offered a position within our world‑class team with plenty of opportunity for long‑term progression. Many former apprentices now occupy roles within the organisation as career development is the foundation to all our apprenticeship schemes. Depending on the needs of the business, you may also be offered the chance to complete additional qualifications.

Entry Requirements

• Minimum of four GCSEs at grade C or 4 and above or equivalent, including English and Maths. Candidates with A‑level or equivalent Level 3 qualifications and degree holders who have no previous qualification within this field are also able to apply.

Our Culture

There’s more to work at Caterpillar than just the work itself. We hire smart, friendly people and it shows in our culture. We hold ourselves to high standards and make sure our values of integrity, excellence, teamwork commitment and sustainability come to life in the way we work.

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.

Our Sustainability Commitment

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

Post Apprenticeship

On successful completion of this apprenticeship you are very likely to be offered a position within our world‑class team with plenty of opportunity for long‑term progression. Many former apprentices now occupy senior management roles within the organisation as career development is the foundation to all our apprenticeship schemes.

We are passionate about our people and their development, and our professionally accredited apprenticeship schemes stand as testament to that. Make it counts. Join us today!

Recruitment Timeline

Go Live: December 01 2025

Closing Date: January 18 2026

Interview Date (in‑person): March 2026 (date TBC)

Employment Start Date: September 2026 (date TBC)

Recruitment Process

Stage one – Online Application: Complete the online application before the closing date. Once we reach the close date we will review all applications and contact you as soon as possible.

Stage two – Assessment Centre: The half‑day assessment centre (interview) will look at a range of behaviours such as teamwork, decision‑making, communication and problem‑solving. Each will comprise a group exercise, an interview and a presentation. Details will vary depending on the career area/role you are applying for. We aim to make these days fun, inclusive and relaxed.

Stage three – Offer: After the assessment centre the team will review the feedback and extend offers to our chosen candidates as quickly as possible.

We hold an Engagement Day for all new apprentices to provide you with an opportunity to meet fellow new starters across the facility before your employment start date. Apprentices will join the business in September 2026.

Apply

We look forward to receiving your application to join Caterpillar. If you have a question, please do not hesitate to get in touch with the team on [e-mail].

Posting Dates: December 3 2025 – January 18 2026

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

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