Mechanical Design Engineer

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Job Description:

Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do – but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here – we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Locations: Decatur, IL – Champaign, IL - Mossville, IL (AC)
Travel: Up to 15%
Relocation Assistance: Available
Visa Sponsorship: Not Available

Job Summary

Caterpillar is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to support L4 system design for LWL/CWD Large Structures, driving innovative mechanical solutions aligned to L6 down‑selected system QVC requirements. This role focuses on mechanical design engineering excellence, including structural weldments, thick‑section components, manufacturability, and automation‑ready designs.

You will collaborate across CPPD (Concurrent Product and Process Development) teams, translating functional and performance requirements into robust mechanical designs that meet cost, quality, durability, and manufacturing objectives. This role plays a critical part in shaping next‑generation Caterpillar products through hands‑on mechanical design leadership from concept through production.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform mechanical design engineering for Large Structures (QVC) supporting LWL/WDC NPI and CPI programs, with strong emphasis on Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA).
• Develop and document mechanical functional requirements, translating L6 system requirements into detailed L4 mechanical designs, models, and drawings.
• Design and optimize structural weldments, thick‑plate and thick‑wall cast components (≥25 mm), balancing strength, weight, durability, and cost.
• Apply mechanical engineering fundamentals (statics, dynamics, fatigue, load paths, material behavior) to large‑scale structures including buckets, work tools, linkages, frames, bodies, liners, pins, bearings, and joints.
• Lead mechanical layout, tolerance, and GD&T definition, including fixturing concepts for finished weldments and machined components.
• Collaborate with manufacturing partners to enable robotic welding, BTS (laser/plasma/gas cutting), CNC machining, and paint automation, improving supply chain efficiency.
• Participate in Go See Act workshops, pilot builds, and pre‑production validation activities, supporting mechanical issue resolution and continuous improvement.
• Support PMO‑based project plans, providing mechanical design status, risk assessments, and set‑based design recommendations.

Required Skills

• Mechanical Design Engineering: Demonstrated experience designing mechanical systems and large structural components from concept through production.
• CAD & Modeling: Proficient in CREO for mechanical modeling, assemblies, and detailed drawings.
• Structural Design Knowledge: Experience with weldments, castings, thick plates, wear materials, and structural load paths.
• Manufacturing Integration: Working knowledge of robotic welding, BTS cutting processes, CNC machining, and automation‑focused design.
• Requirements Analysis: Experience performing L4 design based on L6 system requirements, including trade studies and design validation.
• Project Execution: Ability to plan, organize, and execute mechanical design work within structured project frameworks.
• Problem Solving: Strong troubleshooting skills for resolving mechanical and manufacturing issues in production environments.

Preferred Skills

• FEA & Simulation: Working knowledge of finite element analysis for static and dynamic structural validation.
• Advanced Mechanical Systems: Experience with fatigue, impact loading, abrasion, and wear mechanisms in heavy equipment applications.
• Aftermarket & Service Considerations: Understanding of serviceability and lifecycle performance for large mechanical structures.
• Cross‑Functional Influence: Ability to influence design decisions through technical expertise across engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain teams.

Summary Pay Range:

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

Posting Dates:

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

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.

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