Caterpillar, Inc

Senior Design Engineer

Caterpillar, Inc$112K — $169K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering from an accredited curriculum.
  • 5+ years of experience in developing drivetrains, engines, or mechanical systems.
  • Proficiency in CAD software like Creo for product design.
  • Experience with machine or lab testing of transmission systems.
  • Formal training in Six Sigma or Lean methodologies.

Responsibilities

  • Design and implement components for powershift transmissions in Medium Wheel Loader applications.
  • Collaborate with software teams for hardware-software integration in transmission design.
  • Create strategies for new powershift transmission solutions for upcoming models.
  • Partner with global teams to optimize new and existing components.
  • Lead APQP tasks, including data review for PPAP signoff.
  • Participate in DFMEAs and PFMEAs for system improvements.
  • Support NPI and CPI initiatives while meeting quality and timeline goals.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Generous paid time off including vacation and holidays.
  • 401(k) savings plan with company contributions.
  • Tuition reimbursement programs for further education.
  • Flexible spending accounts for healthcare costs.
Full Job Description

Career Area:

Engineering

Job Description:

Role Definition

The Drivetrain Platform team in Large Power Systems Division is looking to hire an experienced engineer that wants to take ownership of complex mechanical systems from concept through production. 

This role is ideal for engineers coming from automotive, aerospace, robotics/automation, or industrial equipment backgrounds who are ready to apply their experience to large-scale, high-impact machines operating in demanding real-world environments.  This role will be located in East Peoria, IL where you will join a team of highly motivated engineers that thrive on solving technical challenges and taking ownership of sophisticated projects.

Come shape the future of high-performance machinery in a role where your ideas and expertise move from concept to reality!

What you will do

  • Design, develop, validate, and implement components and systems for transmissions, axles, and driveline systems

  • Own engineering decisions across the full product lifecycle

  • Collaborate with controls and software teams

  • Work with global engineering, manufacturing, and purchasing teams

  • Participate in DFMEA/PFMEA and structured problem-solving

  • Analyze test data and support system validation

  • Support manufacturing and resolve design issues

  • Communicate technical progress across global teams

Degree Requirement

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, or Agricultural Engineering from an accredited curriculum.

What skills you must 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.

  • 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.

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

Top candidates must also have

  • 5+ years of designing mechanical systems

  • Demonstrated experience designing mechanical systems operating under load, such as:

    • Powertrain or driveline systems

    • Structural or load-bearing systems

    • Rotating components (gears, bearings, shafts)

    • Electro-mechanical or automated systems

  • Knowledge of product design and development processes from concept through production

  • Ability to perform root cause analysis and implement effective engineering solutions

  • Experience working in a cross-functional environment with design, manufacturing, and supplier teams

  • Proficiency with CAD tools and engineering analysis methods

Additional Information

  • This position will close at 11:59 p.m. on 07/10/2026.

  • This position will be located onsite 5 days a week in East Peoria, IL (Building KK).

  • Relocation assistance (domestic) is available for this position. 

  • Sponsorship is NOT available. 

  • This position may require less than 10% travel

Final details

Please frequently check the email associated with your application, including the junk/spam folder, as this is the primary correspondence method. If you wish to know the status of your application – please use the candidate log-in on our career website as it will reflect any updates to your status.

#LI #MilitaryMonday #Letsdothework #caterpillarinc #Iamcaterpillar


 

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. 

 

Relocation is available for this position.

 

 

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

 

 

Posting Dates:

June 26, 2026 - July 10, 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.

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.

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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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