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 Engineering or a related field.
  • 5-7 years of experience in product design and development.
  • Proficiency in Creo modeling and intermediate-level Excel.
  • Experience with Minitab or other data analysis tools.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

  • Lead design concept and layout using computer graphics systems.
  • Conduct hands-on testing to verify design functionality and durability.
  • Coordinate design expertise with manufacturing and assembly teams.
  • Refine product designs through investigations and solutions development.
  • Provide technical leadership to cross-functional teams during product build and test.
  • Ensure product integrity by adhering to quality and safety standards.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
  • Paid time off plan including vacation and holidays.
  • 401(k) savings plans with company match.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Account (HSA).
  • Career development opportunities and tuition reimbursement.
  • Incentive bonuses and employee discounts.
Full Job Description

Career Area:

Engineering

Job Description:

Role Definition:

This position is within Caterpillar’s Large Power Systems Division and is part of the team that develops advanced high-pressure fuel systems for Caterpillar diesel engines. You will join a diverse team developing fuel injector design and performance for new engine applications. This role requires a hands-on presence and offers experience in detailed design, structural and hydraulic analysis, production testing, and mechatronics control strategy development.  This role also works closely with external suppliers, as well as Caterpillar manufacturing, assembly, and test team members.

 

What You Will Do:

 

  • Assignments are project oriented and incorporate knowledge of current technology as well as an understanding of the entire design and product validation process.
  • Takes responsibility for the design concept and design layout using the computer graphics system. Performs design calculations and participates in design decisions. Along with the supporting technical team, provides technical leadership to Manufacturing, Quality, Purchasing, Marketing, Sales, Service and other areas.
  • Conducts hands-on testing using test benches to measure performance, verify design functionality, identify failures, calibrate components, and validate product durability.
  • Works with considerable latitude in coordinating and providing design expertise. Refines and improves product designs by conducting investigations and developing solutions. Receives exposure to complex design processes. Consults with engineers to determine work objectives and the means to achieve them.
  • Requires familiarity with the stages of production approval and release, and the review and dispositioning of design deviations and change requests. Provides technical leadership for Designers, Layout Drafters, Drafting Technicians and off-site drafting support. Maintains close communication with Assemblers and Test Engineers during product build and test.
  • Enhances the integrity of the product in the worldwide marketplace by ensuring superior performance, durability, reliability, quality, and serviceability. 
  • Adheres to established standards, policies, and practices relating to quality, cost reduction, safety, ergonomics, etc.

 

Degree Requirement:

 

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or a related field.

 

What Skills You Have:

 

Analytical Thinking: Knowledge of techniques and tools that promote effective analysis; ability to determine the root cause of organizational problems and create alternative solutions that resolve these problems.

  • Seeks discrepancies and inconsistencies in available information; explains variances.
  • Organizes and prioritizes the sequence of steps to be taken to remedy the situation.
  • Identifies many possible causes for a problem based on prior experience and current research.
  • Quantifies the costs, benefits, risks and chances for success before recommending a course of action.
  • Approaches a complex problem by breaking it down into its component parts.
  • Chooses among a diverse set of analytical tools according to the nature of the situation.

 

Effective Communications: Understanding of effective communication concepts, tools and techniques; ability to effectively transmit, receive, and accurately interpret ideas, information, and needs through the application of appropriate communication behaviors.

  • Delivers helpful feedback that focuses on behaviors without offending the recipient.
  • Listens to feedback without defensiveness and uses it for own communication effectiveness.
  • Makes oral presentations and writes reports needed for own work.
  • Avoids technical jargon when inappropriate.
  • Looks for and considers non-verbal cues from individuals and groups.

 

Managing Multiple Priorities: Knowledge of effective self-management practices; ability to manage multiple concurrent objectives, projects, groups, or activities, making effective judgments as to prioritizing and time allocation.

  • Recognizes changing demands and priorities; validates changes with management.
  • Obtains information about how current assignments contribute to organizational goals.
  • Completes current work according to assigned priorities.
  • Responds to day-to-day operational priorities while still making progress on project work.
  • Performs at least 2-3 concurrent activities without reducing productivity.

 

Technical Excellence: Knowledge of a given technology and various application methods; ability to develop and provide solutions to significant technical challenges.

  • Provides effective technical solutions to routine functional challenges via sound technical competence, effectively examining implications of events and issues.
  • Effectively performs the technical job aspects, continuously building knowledge and keeping up-to-date on technical and procedural job components.
  • Applies technical operating and project standards based on achieving excellence in delivered products, technologies and services.
  • Applies current procedures and technologies to help resolve technical issues in one's general area of technical competence.
  • Helps others solve technical or procedural problems or issues.

 

Computer-Aided Design & Engineering: Knowledge of tools and techniques of specialized graphics programs; ability to produce, analyze, simulate and test product design drafts.

  • Coaches others on orthographic, isometric and axonometric projections.
  • Presents complex products and systems graphically.
  • Performs manipulations on design objects, such as changing projections and managing drawing layers.
  • Directs the matrix computations performed to transform objects in coordinate space.
  • Consults on benefits and drawbacks of top-down design vs. bottom-up design.
  • Compares and contrasts uses of bird's-eye views and worm's-eye views.

 

Product Design - MFG: Knowledge of processes, approaches, tools and techniques of product design; ability to convert customer and market requirements into product design. 

  • Develops improvement plans for senior management and evaluates the outcome of the design against the functionality.
  • Advises others on the development of multiple products and their functionality.
  • Trains others on advanced tools and approaches of product design.
  • Monitors the processes and procedures of a complex product design to ensure functional requirements are met.
  • Evaluates feedback from customers and consults on functional weaknesses.
  • Controls design and development costs of a proposed product through effective resource coordination.

 

Product Design and Development: Knowledge of product features; ability to design, build, and develop a new product, technology, or service from concept through to production.

  • Builds three-dimensional models with basic materials.
  • Communicates with professionals to understand various requirements of product design.
  • Tests and evaluates alternative means of production being considered for use.
  • Uses automated tools to design or modify the design of a product.
  • Assists in building a complex prototype of product.

 

Top Candidates May Have:


  • Demonstrated ability to work independently with a strong drive for results.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills in team-oriented environments.
  • Proficiency in Creo modeling, intermediate-level Excel, and Minitab or other data analysis experience and design tasks.

 

Additional Information:


  • This position requires the selected candidate to work on-site five days a week in the Pontiac, IL facility.
  • Domestic relocation assistance is available for this position.
  • Visa sponsorship is NOT provided.
  • Please ensure you frequently sign in to your Candidate Home for any updates or correspondence for positions that you have applied for: https://cat.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/CaterpillarCareers

#LI

 

 

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:

October 6, 2026 - October 13, 2026

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

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