Caterpillar, Inc

Performance / Simulation / Application Engineer

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

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
  • 2 years of engineering experience with performance analysis of systems/components (or 1 year with a master's degree).
  • Experience with 1-D and 3-D simulation tools for system analysis and validation.
  • Proficiency in conducting CFD simulations for design and validation projects.
  • Familiarity with modeling software such as GT-Suite or AMESim and CFD tools including Fluent and Star-CCM+.
  • Ability to present simulation results and reports effectively.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and validate cooling systems for machines and power systems.
  • Collaborate with design and validation teams, participating in lab and field testing.
  • Select and size cooling system layouts and components using 1D simulation tools.
  • Conduct CFD analysis of cooling components and systems.
  • Support electrification projects through simulation.
  • Execute application-specific cooling system analysis projects, optimizing layouts and systems.
  • Enhance simulation methods and contribute to establishing technical specifications for new products.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off (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 opportunities*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement
Full Job Description
Career Area:
Engineering

Job Description:

Caterpillar Inc. seeks Performance / Simulation / Application Engineer at its facility located at 2427 E Engine Drive, Chillicothe, IL 61523. Utilize analytical techniques to develop and validate cooling systems for machines and power systems, focusing on new product development and continuous improvement. Collaborate with design and validation teams and participate in lab and field testing to validate and correlate analysis models. Select cooling system layouts, sizing, and choose heat exchangers and fans using 1D simulation tools. Perform CFD analysis of cooling components and systems while supporting the continued development of analytical processes and tools. Provide simulation support for electrification projects across Caterpillar platforms, as well as cooling performance simulations for diesel-powered applications. Conduct 1D system simulations for upfront system sizing and component selection and perform advanced CFD simulations for virtual design and validation. Execute application-specific cooling system analysis projects, develop cooling system layouts, and optimize cooling air and water systems. Collaborate with design partners to meet technical and regulatory requirements and conduct component CFD analysis to evaluate performance characteristics. Develop CFD models to analyze airflow through cooling packages and predict component temperatures using under-hood thermal models. Work closely with test engineers to correlate analysis models and resolve cooling-related field issues. Contribute to improving simulation methods and processes while helping establish technical requirements and specifications for new products. REQS: This position requires a bachelor's degree or foreign equivalent in Mechanical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or a related field plus 2 years of engineering experience with performance analysis of systems or components for on and off highway machines and vehicles, gas and diesel engines, or gas and diesel power systems or related occupation. In the alternative, employer will accept a master's degree, or foreign equivalent, in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Agricultural Engineering or a related field plus 1 year of engineering experience or training with performance analysis of systems or components for on and off highway machines and vehicles, gas and diesel engines, or gas and diesel power systems or related occupation. Additionally, the applicant must have employment experience with: (1) 1-D and 3-D simulation tools for system analysis and validation, specifically for electrification and cooling performance projects; (2) Performing CFD simulations for virtual design and validation, ensuring optimized system functionality; (3) Conducting system simulations for upfront system sizing and selecting appropriate components for cooling systems; (4) Simulation result presentations and reports; (5) GT-Suite, AMESim, or other system modeling software; (6) Fluent, Star- CCM+, Simerics, OpenFOAM or other CFD software; (7) Hypermesh, ANSA, or other mesh generation software; and (8) Ensight, ParaView, or other similar post-processing software. Travel: None. Telecommuting: None. Employer will accept any suitable combination of training or experience.

Applicants who are interested in this position should apply via www.caterpillar.com/careers, search [Performance / Simulation / Application Engineer / Reference # ]. #LI-DNI

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.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates:
May 27, 2026 - September 23, 2026

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

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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