Caterpillar, Inc

Manufacturing Project Engineer

Caterpillar, Inc$112K — $169K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Robotics, Industrial, or Electrical Engineering, or equivalent experience.
  • 5-7 years of experience in manufacturing engineering or related fields.
  • Demonstrated expertise in automation, robotics, and modern manufacturing processes.
  • Proficiency in structured problem-solving techniques and project management tools.
  • Experience in collaborating with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

  • Research and deploy physical automation technologies for process enhancement.
  • Support projects involving robotics and automation systems.
  • Evaluate existing processes to identify automation opportunities.
  • Design and test automation concepts and systems before production.
  • Assist in installation and stabilization of automation equipment.
  • Apply problem-solving techniques to improve safety and efficiency.
  • Communicate technical findings to various stakeholders.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
  • Paid time off plan including vacation and holidays.
  • 401(k) savings plan with company contributions.
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) options available.
  • Career development programs and potential for tuition reimbursement.
  • Employee Assistance Program and mental health support.
  • Incentive bonuses and additional voluntary benefits.
  • Life insurance and disability benefits.
Full Job Description
Career Area:
Manufacturing

Job Description:

Job Summary:

The Manufacturing Project Engineer plays a key role in driving operational excellence by leading high-impact projects that improve safety, quality, efficiency, and production stability. This role partners closely with cross-functional teams to deliver end-to-end solutions, ensuring successful execution from concept through implementation.

In this position, you will support development of modern manufacturing capabilities aligned with Enterprise Capability Owners, with a strong focus on production stability and optimizing manufacturing performance. You will lead initiatives related to new product introductions, process improvements, and equipment integration, while identifying opportunities to enhance operational efficiency across the plant.

This role also brings a strong connection to research and development, supporting the transition of innovative ideas into scalable, production-ready solutions. By leveraging technical expertise, data-driven insights, and collaboration across engineering and operations teams, you will help bridge development and manufacturing to deliver reliable, high-quality outcomes in a dynamic environment.

What You Will Do
  • Research, develop, and deploy physical automation technologies to improve manufacturing process capability, efficiency, quality, and cost
  • Support projects across robotics, automation systems, asset connectivity, machine learning, and vision-based manufacturing applications
  • Evaluate existing manufacturing processes and equipment to identify automation opportunities, gaps, and improvement potential
  • Design, develop, test, and validate automation concepts, prototypes, and pilot systems prior to production deployment
  • Support installation, commissioning, ramp-up, and stabilization of automation equipment in manufacturing and supplier environments
  • Apply structured problem-solving techniques to identify root causes and develop modern manufacturing capabilities addressing Safety, Quality, Velocity, and Cost
  • Communicate technical findings, recommendations, and results to Enterprise Capability Owners (ECOs), operations, leadership, suppliers, and internal customers
  • Deploy technical strategies, provide technical guidance and mentoring to pilot locations for modern manufacturing solutions


Education Requirement
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Robotics Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline or demonstrate equivalent knowledge through professional expertise.


What Skills You Will Have

Decision Making & Critical Thinking:
  • Applies structured decision-making techniques
  • Identifies, organizes, and evaluates relevant data and alternatives
  • Assesses risks and tradeoffs impacting manufacturing performance


Engineering - MFG:
  • Assists with manufacturing problem resolution and supports drafting engineering specifications and standard practices.
  • Works with routine manufacturing engineering tools, equipment, and processes.
  • Performs basic installation, maintenance, and repair activities within a defined engineering function.
  • Follows established engineering standards, policies, and procedures.
  • Identifies and escalates unusual manufacturing or engineering issues to senior staff.


Project Management:
  • Uses standard project management tools to estimate cost, timelines, and resource needs.
  • Plans, organizes, and monitors manufacturing projects to meet scope, schedule, and cost objectives.
  • Identifies project risks and develops mitigation and contingency plans.
  • Leads project reviews with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
  • Maintains clear communication and reporting throughout the project lifecycle.


Additional Information
  • Location: Sanford, NC - 5 Days a Week Onsite
  • Domestic relocation assistance is NOT available
  • Visa sponsorship is NOT available with this position
  • Up to 10% travel may be required


Summary Pay Range:

$112,710.00 - $169,060.00

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.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates:
May 28, 2026 - June 11, 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.

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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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