Caterpillar, Inc

Design Engineer

Caterpillar, Inc$97K — $146K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in an accredited Engineering curriculum or equivalent.
  • Experience designing hydraulic systems for construction or off-highway equipment.
  • Familiarity with laboratory testing processes, including data analysis and reporting.
  • Experience working collaboratively with suppliers and cross-functional teams.
  • Proficient in Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and engineering software.

Responsibilities

  • Design and develop hydraulic systems for mini-excavators, creating detailed engineering designs.
  • Create hydraulic schematics and perform analyses to optimize system performance.
  • Plan and execute prototype builds and laboratory testing, analyzing results to recommend improvements.
  • Develop test plans to verify hydraulic system performance and compliance with requirements.
  • Investigate and resolve hydraulic system issues using structured problem-solving methods.
  • Collaborate with suppliers and cross-functional teams for component development and quality improvements.
  • Research new technologies and innovative solutions to enhance machine performance.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
  • Paid time off including vacation, holidays, and volunteer days.
  • 401(k) savings plans with company matching.
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
  • Career Development opportunities and Tuition Reimbursement support.
  • Incentive bonuses and employee discounts.
Full Job Description
Career Area:
Engineering

Job Description:

Caterpillar's BCP division is hiring a Design Engineer in Clayton, NC!

Role Summary: Caterpillar Building Construction Products Division, located in Clayton, North Carolina, is the design headquarters for MHE (Mini-Hydraulic Excavator) machines. The MHE Hydraulics System Team is seeking a motivated person to fill the role of a DesignEngineer. The mission of the Team is to deliver industry-leading hydraulic systems for Mini Hydraulic Excavators through design, development, validation, optimization, and product support activities.

As a Design Engineer in the MHE Hydraulic System Team, you will take ownership of increasingly complex engineering challenges, contribute to key hydraulic system development activities, and continue building your technical expertise in mobile hydraulics and machine performance. You will partner with and provide technical guidance to global teams. You will continually learn and stay abreast of innovative technology. You will help shape machine performance attributes such as controllability, productivity, efficiency, and operator experience.

What You'll Do (Job Duties)
  • Design and develop hydraulic systems and component solutions for mini-excavator applications, translating functional requirements into detailed engineering designs and documentation.
  • Create hydraulic schematics, perform engineering analyses, and support system performance optimization related to productivity, efficiency, reliability, and cost.
  • Plan, coordinate, and execute prototype builds, laboratory testing, and machine validation activities; analyze results and recommend design improvements.
  • Develop test plans and validation procedures to verify hydraulic system performance, durability, quality, and compliance with product requirements.
  • Investigate and resolve hydraulic system issues encountered during product development, manufacturing, and field operation using structured problem-solving methodologies.
  • Collaborate with suppliers and cross-functional teams to support component development, design reviews, supplier performance improvement, and cost-reduction initiatives.
  • Research emerging technologies, competitive products, and innovative engineering solutions to improve machine performance and enhance future product offerings.
  • Promote a culture of quality and continuous improvement while effectively managing priorities and completing engineering assignments on schedule.


What You Have (Core Skills)
  • Analytical Thinking: Ability to diagnose hydraulic system performance issues, evaluate test data, identify root causes, and develop effective engineering solutions.
  • Effective Communications: Ability to clearly communicate technical concepts, design decisions, and test results while collaborating with cross-functional teams, suppliers, and manufacturing partners.
  • Managing Multiple Priorities: Ability to balance design, testing, validation, and issue-resolution activities across multiple projects while meeting commitments and deadlines.
  • Technical Excellence: Ability to apply hydraulic engineering knowledge to develop reliable, cost-effective solutions that meet machine performance and quality objectives.
  • Computer-Aided Design & Engineering: Ability to use CAD and engineering tools to create, analyze, and maintain hydraulic system designs, schematics, and product documentation.
  • Product Design and Development: Ability to support the development of hydraulic systems from concept and design through validation, production, and continuous product improvement.


Top Candidates Will Also Have
  • Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in an accredited Engineering curriculum.
  • Experience designing, analyzing, or validating hydraulic or other complex systems for construction, agricultural, mining, or other off-highway equipment applications.
  • Experience planning and executing laboratory, bench, or machine-level testing, including data collection, analysis, and reporting.
  • Experience collaborating with suppliers and cross-functional teams on component development, issue resolution, or quality improvement initiatives.


Additional Details
  • Work location: Clayton Machine Design Center (CMDC)
  • Domestic relocation assistance IS available for this role
  • Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this role.
  • Travel: Upto 10% domestic and international
  • This position requires 5 days per week in the office (M-F)


Summary Pay Range:

$97,530.00 - $146,290.00

Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.

Benefits:

Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement


* These benefits also apply to part-time employees

This position requires working onsite five days a week.

Relocation is available for this position.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates:
August 7, 2026 - August 21, 2026

Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.

Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

About Caterpillar, Inc

Progress Rail Services Corporation, a Caterpillar company, is one of the largest integrated and diversified suppliers of railroad and transit system products and services worldwide. Since its acquisition by Caterpillar Inc. in 2006, Progress Rail has used the Caterpillar international footprint to gain quick and widespread notice and approval across the globe. Product technology, reliability and durability, along with legendary aftermarket parts and service support, have been their keys to success. Caterpillar is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines. The technology and world reach of Caterpillar, combined with the service standard and historical reliability of Progress Rail, ensures their products and services make a growing impact on the world rail industry. With their acquisition of Electro-Motive Diesel (EMD), Progress Rail is the world's largest builder of diesel-electric locomotives for all commercial railroad applications including freight, intercity passenger, commuter, switching, industrial and mining. EMD is also a global provider of diesel power engines for marine propulsion, offshore and land based oil well drilling rigs and stationary power generation. Electro-Motive is the only diesel engine manufacturer of its size to have produced more than 70,000 engines. This success stems from product reliability, serviceability, load acceptance capability, low operating costs and ease of maintenance with standardized components.

Caterpillar, Inc. Careers

Join the robust team at Caterpillar, Inc., a global leader in construction and mining equipment, where innovation drives everything we do. As part of our team, you'll engage in work that improves the world and furthers your career with every project you touch.

Work You’ll Do

At Caterpillar, Inc., you will have the opportunity to contribute to a variety of groundbreaking projects that extend across the globe. Our commitment to leadership in the industry is unwavering, and we achieve it through a culture that fosters diversity and leadership development.

Explore Job Opportunities and Growth

Caterpillar offers a wide range of job opportunities and career paths, providing a platform for professional growth and development. Whether you're interested in engineering, sales, marketing, or management, Caterpillar has a position that will utilize your unique skills and talents. We are continuously hiring innovative minds to propel our mission forward and maintain our status as industry leaders.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with a Caterpillar internship. Our internships provide invaluable workplace experience and networking opportunities that often lead to full-time employment at our company. As an intern, you will work alongside experienced professionals and gain insights that will benefit you as you advance in your career.

Benefits and Culture

Choosing a career at Caterpillar means more than just having a job. It means you're part of a team that values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We offer competitive benefits to ensure the health and well-being of our employees and their families. These benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, alongside unique perks like professional development and diversity training programs.

Innovation and Leadership

Drive innovation and industry leadership as part of the Caterpillar team. We empower our employees to lead from their first day on the job, encouraging continuous improvement and career advancement. At Caterpillar, your ideas will shape the future of our business and the industries we serve.

Join Our Team

Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Ready to start your journey at Caterpillar, Inc.? Explore our career portal for the latest job opportunities.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with company news, career tips, and industry insights—all from the people who work here. Subscribe to our careers blog and personalize your subscription to receive updates that align with your career interests.

Prepare for Your Interview

Make a great first impression. Prepare for your interview at Caterpillar by reviewing common questions and practicing your responses. Tailor your resume to highlight the experiences and skills that make you the ideal candidate for the position you are applying for. At Caterpillar, Inc., every role offers the chance to make an impact. Come be a part of our team and drive the future of our global industries. Your career at Caterpillar is not just about what you'll accomplish, but how you'll grow and the innovation you'll lead. Join us and build a career that matters.
Learn more about Caterpillar, Inc
Size
107,700 employees
Market Cap
$125.3 billion
Industry
Net Income
$2.9 billion
Founded
1925
5 Year Trend
+5.8%
Revenue
$41.7 billion
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Caterpillar, Inc

More Manufacturing & Automotive Jobs

Find similar Design Engineer jobs: