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Design Engineering Specialist - Drivetrain Component

Caterpillar

Caterpillar

Design
Decatur, IL, USA
USD 126k-189k / year
Posted on Jul 2, 2025

Career Area:

Engineering

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.

Description

Caterpillar’s Drivetrain team designs drivetrain systems and components used across Caterpillar machines and OEM applications. The Structures, Castings, and Forgings team designs many of the parts used within those components. Those parts include axle housings, spindles, planet carriers, cases, clutch and brake components, amongst many others. The team is also a centralized resource for designing and validating components that are exposed to ground induced structural loads. This specific role includes:

  • Sole design ownership for suspension components that include A-frames, trunnions & supports, and some links.

  • Working with 2 other engineers to design spindles

  • Along with the other local engineers, provide technical support to the assembly facility (Decatur)

Our team provides design leadership through the entire lifecycle of the part, from concept to production implementation to production maintenance and supporting our end customers.

Duties

  • Creating new designs that meet all technical and business requirements.

  • Completing Design FMEAs and Technical Reviews to establish risk and corresponding validation plans.

  • Completing and/or coordinating analysis activities to evaluate new designs.

  • Working with suppliers and purchasing teams when sourcing parts to a supplier.

  • Provide technical assessment and guidance to resolve production part quality issues.

  • Assess if part nonconformances are acceptable for use.

  • Provide engineering support to local assembly facility.

  • Participate in APQP activities.

Skills

  • Analytical Thinking: Expert in identifying root causes and developing solutions using diverse analytical tools. Breaks down complex problems, quantifies risks and benefits, and prioritizes actions based on data and experience.

  • Decision Making & Critical Thinking: Applies structured decision-making processes, evaluates assumptions and past outcomes, and guides others in analyzing data and alternatives. Uses appropriate decision styles and ensures objectivity.

  • Effective Communication: Communicates clearly across all levels, tailoring messages to audiences. Provides constructive feedback, uses empathy and persuasion, and maintains focus in discussions and presentations.

  • Project Management: Leads large-scale projects with strong planning, estimation, and risk management. Ensures clear communication, stakeholder engagement, and effective monitoring and control throughout the project lifecycle.

  • Computer-Aided Design & Engineering: Expert in advanced CAD techniques, including projections, transformations, and design methodologies. Coaches others and presents complex systems visually with clarity.

  • Product Development Life Cycle (Manufacturing): Manages full product development lifecycle, from planning to launch. Aligns marketing and development, leverages trends, and applies structured methodologies for both new and enhanced products.

  • Product Testing: Designs and oversees comprehensive testing strategies. Collaborates with design teams, selects appropriate tools, and ensures quality through automation and scenario-based testing.

  • Troubleshooting Technical Problems: Resolves high-impact technical issues using advanced diagnostics. Evaluates business impact, monitors system performance, and coaches others in complex troubleshooting across systems and vendors

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Agricultural, Manufacturing, or Aerospace Engineering

  • 5+ years of job-related work experience

Top Candidates Will Also Have

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

  • Proficient in Creo modeling and stress analysis.

  • Experience designing cast and/or forged components.

  • Demonstrate use of DFMEAs, APQP, and PPAPs.

Summary Pay Range:

$126,000.00 - $189,000.00

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

Posting Dates:

July 1, 2025 - July 14, 2025

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.

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