Design Engineer – Drivetrain Components

Caterpillar Inc.

. Lead a global team in designing valvetrain components, including valves, valve seats, valve guides, rotators, rocker arms, rocker shafts, and pushrods .

Posted 9/17/2026full-timeLafayette • Illinois • United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $97,530 - $146,290 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in designing and validating valvetrain components, applying New Product Implementation processes, and leading cross-functional teams. Proficient in managing multiple projects while ensuring effective communication and collaboration across global teams.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Valvetrain Component DesignNew Product Implementation (NPI)FMEAs3D Modeling SoftwareHeavy Duty Reciprocating Engine Development

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Analytical TechniquesProduct Design ProcessesComputer-Aided Design (CAD)Numerical SimulationProduct DevelopmentTechnical EvaluationProject ManagementSupplier CollaborationValidation PlansMechanical Aptitude

Soft Skills

Effective CommunicationInterpersonal SkillsCollaborationInitiativeAccountability

Tools & Technologies

Caterpillar Engineering SystemsEngineering Design ToolsVisualization SoftwareManufacturing Collaboration ToolsLogistics Management Tools

Industry Keywords

Diesel EnginesNatural Gas EnginesAlternative Fuel EnginesMining TrucksMarine EnginesLocomotivesPetroleum EnginesElectric Power Generation

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead a global team in designing valvetrain components, including valves, valve seats, valve guides, rotators, rocker arms, rocker shafts, and pushrods
Design and promote new components and sub-processes
Technically evaluate product design, reliability, durability, validation cost, product cost, and program requirements
Apply New Product Implementation (NPI) processes to conduct FMEAs, formulate validation plans, and complete validation activities
Evaluate new products, processes, and systems, including supplier change requests
Complete projects on time and at cost in support of NTI, NPI, CPI, and NSI programs
Communicate results to customers, suppliers, team members, and other business units
Lead supplier collaboration and CPPD
Concept, develop, and design complex components and systems
Provide technical guidance to global teams
Contribute to diesel, natural gas, and alternative fuel reciprocating engine development
Plan and deliver projects, stay current with innovative technology, mentor and coach team members, and broaden professional networks
Work with engineers, agency employees, manufacturing, global purchasing, and suppliers to design, release, and validate valvetrain components

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in an accredited Engineering curriculum OR relevant experience
Extensive knowledge of analytical techniques and tools
Extensive understanding of effective communication concepts, tools and techniques
Extensive knowledge of managing multiple priorities
Extensive knowledge of relevant technology and application methods
Extensive knowledge of computer-aided design and engineering tools and techniques
Extensive knowledge of product design processes and techniques
Extensive knowledge of product design and development
Heavy duty reciprocating engine design or development experience
Strong analytical skills
Initiative, honesty and accountability in leading small teams
Experience collaborating with manufacturing, logistics, purchasing, test and development, and engineering groups
Ability to manage multiple critical projects and prioritize work
Basic understanding of numerical simulation, inputs and results interpretation
Excellent communication, interpersonal and collaboration skills
Working knowledge of Caterpillar Engineering systems
Experience with APQP, CPPD, FMEAs, and releasing quality components
Experience with Valvetrain components and systems
Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to develop product concepts
Experience with 3D modeling software used in engineering design and visualization
Application knowledge of large mining trucks, marine engines, locomotives, petroleum engines, and electric power generation
Ability to travel up to 20%
Must successfully complete a drug screen
Sponsorship is NOT available for this position

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
Relocation assistance