Caterpillar, Inc

Engineering Specialist - Design

Caterpillar, Inc$128K — $192K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in an accredited Engineering program
  • Experience optimizing designs for manufacturability
  • Demonstrated execution of Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP)
  • Deep understanding of End-to-End Built-In Quality (E2E BIQ) processes
  • Proficiency in designing fabricated structures
  • Ability to engage subject matter experts for technical issue resolution

Responsibilities

  • Lead collaboration with PF suppliers to enhance fabrication performance
  • Resolve PF component challenges and factory issues through quality gates
  • Manage adherence to APQP processes and Built-In Quality for RFT Heavy Structures
  • Drive adoption of Welding Digital Thread and Digital Weld Instructions
  • Travel to supplier sites and customer locations domestically and internationally
  • Prioritize tasks and develop delegation plans for efficiency
  • Communicate progress and results to various stakeholders

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
Full Job Description
Career Area:
Engineering

Job Description:

This Engineering Specialist - Design role provides deep technical leadership in supplier, factory, and internal development process quality for Heavy Structures on Rigid Frame Truck (RFT) products. In this role, you will lead supplier and factory quality improvement initiatives while driving key internal process enhancements to strengthen the robustness of RFT Heavy Structures. Your work directly influences machine physical availability, supplier and factory delivered quality, and long-term product durability for Resource Industries customers.

Why this role Is Impactful:
  • Quality Leadership Across Rigid Frame Truck Heavy Structures - You set the standard for supplier and factory quality, ensuring robust processes and consistent execution across all RFT Heavy Structures components
  • Driving Modern Manufacturing Transformation - You introduce innovative processes such as Welding Digital Thread (WDT) and Digital Weld Instruction (DWI) usage to external suppliers and internal fabrication partners, while continuously identifying opportunities to leverage emerging technologies
  • Data Driven Process Improvement - You own the data analytics tools that identify process gaps and demonstrate measurable progress in our quality journey
  • Cross-Functional Influence - You collaborate with Design, Analysis, Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, and Procurement teams to align quality requirements and deliver expected results


What you will do:
  • Lead collaboration with Purchase Finished (PF) suppliers to proactively improve fabrication performance using advanced design and analysis tools not typically available to Supplier Development (e.g., WDT, welding distortion analysis, casting solidification analysis)
  • Resolve PF component challenges and critical internal factory issues by leading the execution of required quality gates and implementing improvements to prevent recurrence
  • Lead Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) process conformance and Built-In Quality (BIQ) performance for RFT Heavy Structures
  • Expand adoption of Welding Digital Thread and Digital Weld Instructions across the supply base
  • Travel to supplier sites, manufacturing facilities, and customer locations, both domestically and internationally
  • Prioritize workload and create delegation plans to improve time, cost, and quality metrics
  • Communicate progress & results to internal partners, suppliers, team members, and the broader functional community
  • Balance time across NPI, CPI, maintenance, process improvement, and personal development
  • Participate in team design reviews and identify opportunities to share deep technical expertise and mentor others


Degree Requirement:

Bachelor's Degree in an accredited Engineering program

What Skills you will have:

Product Design and Development:
  • Experience collaborating with Cat manufacturers or suppliers to optimize designs for manufacturability
  • Demonstrated experience in executing APQP from start to finish
  • Deep understanding of End-to-End Built-In Quality (E2E BIQ) processes
  • Proficiency in designing fabricated structures
  • Ability to engage appropriate subject matter experts to effectively resolve technical issues
  • Experience with Caterpillar processes such as NPI and CPI


Managing Multiple Priorities:
  • Ability to effectively prioritize tasks to meet deadlines and achieve organizational goals
  • Skill in balancing competing demands and managing time efficiently
  • Adaptability to changing priorities while managing multiple projects simultaneously
  • Strong organizational skills with attention to detail


Effective Communications:
  • Experience with collaboration tools and processes such as APQP and CPPD
  • Ability and willingness to collaborate with international teams across multiple time zones


Top Candidates will also have:
  • Previous supply chain experience
  • Proficiency in CREO or other CAD tools
  • Familiarity with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools
  • Experience with Rigid Frame Trucks
  • Strong knowledge of Caterpillar components and systems
  • Experience developing PowerBI dashboards
  • Experience executing all phases of a new product development program
  • Proven ability to lead or direct the work of others to achieve design objectives
  • Hands-on experience in machinery, heavy equipment, or manufacturing environments


Additional Information:
  • Primary work location: Tucson AZ OR Decatur, IL (on site full time at a Caterpillar facility)
  • Domestic relocation assistance: Available
  • Travel requirements: Up to 20%
  • Sponsorship: Visa sponsorship, international assignments, and payroll transfers are not available


Posting date: 6/22/2026 - 7/6/2026

Summary Pay Range:

$128,470.00 - $192,710.00

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:

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

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