Manufacturing Robot Programmer/Technician

Caterpillar Inc.; Peterlee; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 43,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Defined Contribution Pension Scheme (C

Share Ownership Scheme

Medical and Dental benefits

Employee Assistance Programme

Job summary

Caterpillar Peterlee is seeking a Manufacturing Robot Programmer/Technician to support and program robotics in a high-volume production environment. You’ll manage 20 robot welding/paint cells, drive process improvements, and lead RCCA investigations to sustain peak performance.

The role requires proven experience in robot programming, a strong problem-solving mindset, and the ability to collaborate with fabrication engineers and supervisors. Travel within the UK and abroad is expected.

Qualifications

• Demonstrable experience in robotic programming and automation support in manufacturing.
• Proven ability to develop/modify/validate robot programs for welding/paint.
• ONC/HNC or equivalent technical experience.
• Strong understanding of robotic systems and fault-finding methods.
• Able to travel within UK and internationally for training and commissioning.

Responsibilities

• Program robot cells and optimize programming strategies for welding/paint cells.
• Provide daily production support to ensure quality, cost, delivery and safety.
• Collaborate with project teams and operations as the primary liaison.
• Develop specifications for new robot cells and improvements for tooling and safety.
• Support operator training and maintain Robot PPM systems.

Skills

Robotic programming

Automation support

Robotics troubleshooting

Analytical skills

Effective communication

Multi-shift readiness

Welding/paint robotics

Education

ONC/HNC apprenticeship

Tools

CLOOS

FANUC

ABB

KUKA

Yaskawa/Motoman

Job description

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.

Career Area

Operations

Job Title

Robot Programmer/Technician

Location

Peterlee, UK

Salary

£39,383.5 (Noninclusive of shift allowance, overtime or bonus)
(Days £20.75, Backs £24.90, Nights £28.01)
Overtime 1.5 (Mon-Sat): £29.33 per hour
Overtime 2 (Sundays): £39.10 per hour

Hours

36.5, Full time on site

Rotational Shifts

Days: Monday - Thursday, 08:00 - 16:00. Friday, 08:00 - 12:30
Back shift: Monday - Thursday, 16:00 - 00:00. Friday, 12:30 - 17:00
Night shift: Monday - Thursday, 00:00 - 08:00. Friday, 17:00 - 21:30

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

The Opportunity

As a Manufacturing Robot Programmer/Technician, you'll be a key contributor to our production environment, leveraging your expertise in robotics, programming, and advanced troubleshooting to keep operations running at peak performance. Responsible for supporting and programming, at current, 20 robotic welding and paint cells, you'll work on everything from process optimization to RCCA investigations, operator development, and continuous improvement projects. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of manufacturing through innovative automation and robotics technology.

Primary Roles/Responsibilities Include But Not Limited To

• Programming of Cloos, Fanuc and ABB robots.
• Assist in the development of optimised programming strategies for new and existing robot cells.
• Provide close daily production support to Fabrication Supervisors for all aspects of Quality, Cost, Delivery and Safety, related to robot cells.
• Act as a primary daily liaison between the project team and operations.
• Assist in the development of specifications for new robot cells.
• Work closely with area manufacturing engineers, to assist in the development and/or improvement of fabrication assembly jigs for components to be robot welded.
• Assist in the specification, development, and improvement of robot cell safety systems.
• Ensure timely and proactive risk assessments are carried out for new and existing robot cells, peripherals, and tooling.
• Identify and develop improvements to robot programmes to increase OEE performance. This may include air-cut time reductions, weld cycle time improvements, total weld ratio improvements, robot weld quality improvements, reduction of all losses – weld defects, rework, cycle stoppages, etc.
• Assist in the training and development of robot operators.
• Compiling of historic data using Agility.
• Full ownership of Robot PPM systems.

Skills, Experience & Qualifications You Will Have

• Demonstrable experience in robotic programming, robot system optimization, troubleshooting, and automation support within a manufacturing environment. Previous experience as a Robot Programmer, Robot Technician, Robot Operator, or Robotics Support Engineer is highly desirable.
• Proven ability to develop, modify, teach, validate, and optimize robot programs for welding, paint, or material handling applications, ensuring maximum performance, quality, and uptime.
• ONC, HNC, apprenticeship, or equivalent technical experience.
• Strong understanding of robotic systems, fault-finding methodologies, and the integration of robotic technology into manufacturing processes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to diagnose complex robotic programming, process, and equipment issues.
• Effective communication skills, with the ability to provide technical guidance, operator training, and support across multiple functions.
• A willingness to travel within the UK and internationally to support training, robot programming development, commissioning activities, and new robotic cell introductions as required.
• Self-motivated, adaptable, and capable of working independently or as part of a team within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Willing to support a multi-shift operation, including working across a 3-shift pattern.

Desired Skills, Qualifications, And Experiences

• Experience with offline robot programming, robotic simulation, and commissioning of new automation systems.
• Experience programming and supporting industrial robots such as CLOOS, FANUC, ABB, KUKA, Yaskawa/Motoman, or similar robotic platforms.
• Knowledge of robotic welding or robotic paint applications, including process optimization and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Time-served welder, fabricator, or paint technician with experience of heavy fabrications, robotic paint plant processes or MIG welding experience is beneficial but not essential.

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, and personal development as well as a continuous drive for improvement.

Benefits

• Defined Contribution Pension Scheme (Contribution double by Company up to 10%),
• Share Ownership Scheme (50% company matched)
• Personalized flexible benefits including Medical and Dental
• Employee Assistance Programme

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. Pending the number of applications, the criteria for the position may be enhanced to facilitate shortlisting. NB. The panel cannot make assumptions when shortlisting therefore please demonstrate your qualifications and experience on your CV relevant to the criteria outlined. Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.

Posting Dates

August 28, 2026 - September 6, 2026