Design Engineer

Caterpillar Inc.

. Design, develop, validate, and support air management system components .

Posted 9/21/2026full-timeLafayette • Illinois • United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $89,210 - $133,810 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in mechanical component design, 3D CAD modeling, and structured problem-solving methodologies. Capable of collaborating with cross-functional teams and suppliers to drive product development and continuous improvement initiatives.

Highest-signal resume keywords

3D CAD Software ProficiencyMechanical Component DesignStructured Problem-SolvingCross-Functional CollaborationEngineering Analysis

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Mechanical EngineeringData AnalysisRoot Cause AnalysisValidation PlanningFMEAEngineering DesignModelingTestingSpecification DevelopmentTechnical Documentation

Soft Skills

Attention to DetailCuriosityInitiativeSelf-Directed Work HabitsWillingness to Learn

Tools & Technologies

Creo3D Modeling ToolsEngineering DrawingsValidation ToolsTesting Equipment

Certifications & Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

Industry Keywords

Air Management SystemsNew Technology IntroductionNew Product IntroductionContinuous Product ImprovementMechanical HardwareManufacturingSupplier CollaborationFluid SystemsThermal SystemsEngineering Disciplines

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Design, develop, validate, and support air management system components
Create and maintain engineering designs, models, drawings, and specifications
Analyze data, resolve technical issues, and drive quality, cost, and reliability improvements
Collaborate with suppliers and cross-functional teams to support product development and production readiness
Participate in testing, validation, design reviews, and hardware evaluations
Support New Technology Introduction (NTI), New Product Introduction (NPI), Continuous Product Improvement (CPI), assurance of supply, and product maintenance activities
Investigate technical and manufacturing concerns using structured problem-solving, root cause analysis, testing, inspection, validation, and data analysis
Contribute to requirements definition, concept development, engineering analysis, design selection, validation, and production support
Create and revise 3D models, engineering drawings, specifications, and related documentation
Organize work across multiple assignments, communicate project status and risks, and execute assignments with increasing ownership

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor's degree in an accredited Engineering curriculum required
Mechanical, Agricultural, Aerospace, Materials, or closely related engineering discipline preferred
Candidates with significant relevant experience and a two-year technical degree may also be considered
Internship, co-op, project, or early-career experience related to mechanical component design, engines, fluid systems, valves, actuators, or thermal systems
Experience with 3D CAD software such as Creo or comparable modeling and drawing tools
Exposure to design reviews, FMEA, validation planning, test-data analysis, or structured problem-solving methods
Experience working with suppliers, manufacturing, purchasing, or other cross-functional partners
Familiarity with castings, machined components, fabrications, bushings, shafts, linkages, seals, or other mechanical hardware
Hands-on mechanical experience through work, projects, labs, or personal pursuits
Demonstrated curiosity, humility, initiative, attention to detail, and willingness to learn through hands-on technical work
Strong self-directed work habits and ability to take ownership of assignments
Must complete a drug screen upon offer of employment
Visa sponsorship is not available; applicants requiring or expecting employer-tied sponsorship are not eligible

Benefits

Comp & perks

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
Less than 10% domestic and international travel
Drug screen upon offer of employment