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Caterpillar Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Caterpillar

$112K - $169K/yr

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do ... Work with design engineers, agency employees, manufacturing, global purchasing and suppliers to ...

Caterpillar

Adobe AEM/Uniform Engineer

Peoria, IL · On-site

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do ... Design and implement robust content models, components, templates, and experience composition ...

Caterpillar

Senior Engineer-Design

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$125K - $169K/yr

Caterpillar Inc. seeks Senior Engineer-Design at its facility located at 3701 South Street, Lafayette, IN 47905. Conceive and provide practical product design applications using complex technical ...

Caterpillar

Engineering Specialist - Design

Mossville, IL · On-site

$60K - $78K/yr

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do ... The Engineering Specialist - Design provides deep technical leadership in performance, simulation ...

Caterpillar

Embedded SW Engineer

Mossville, IL · On-site

$127K - $146K/yr

Engineering Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc. When you join Caterpillar, you're ... Caterpillar displays & connectivity product lines using for years to come. Design, develop ...

Caterpillar

Packaging Engineer

Seguin, TX · On-site

$89K - $133K/yr

... design Software; (3) Pack assist; and (4) EPSA. Applicants who are interested in this position should apply via www.caterpillar.com/careers, search [Packaging Engineer / R0000369993 #LI-DNI]

Caterpillar

Software Engineer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$97K - $158K/yr

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do ... Interpreting design requirements for engineering implementation * Building and deploying CICD ...

Caterpillar

Software Engineer

Chicago, IL

$97K - $158K/yr

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do ... Interpreting design requirements for engineering implementation * Building and deploying CICD ...

Caterpillar

Senior Software Engineer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$112K - $183K/yr

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do ... Interpreting design requirements for engineering implementation * Building and deploying CICD ...

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All JobsCaterpillar Design Engineer Jobs

Caterpillar Design Engineer information

See salary details

$40.5K

$88.2K

$158.5K

How much do caterpillar design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for caterpillar design engineer in the United States is $88,150.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Caterpillar Design Engineers when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Caterpillar Design Engineers often work on several projects at once, balancing product development timelines, customer specifications, and cross-functional collaboration. Managing these parallel responsibilities can be challenging, especially when coordinating with manufacturing, quality, and supply chain teams to ensure designs are feasible and cost-effective. Effective time management, clear communication, and strong organizational skills are essential for meeting deadlines and maintaining high-quality standards. Regular meetings and project tracking tools are commonly used to stay aligned and address any issues quickly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Caterpillar Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Caterpillar Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, strong CAD skills, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools like Creo, CATIA, or SolidWorks, and knowledge of product lifecycle management (PLM) systems are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you collaborate across departments and innovate effectively. These skills ensure the design of robust, high-performing equipment that meets Caterpillar's quality and safety standards.

What does a Caterpillar Design Engineer do?

A Caterpillar Design Engineer is responsible for designing and developing heavy machinery and equipment for Caterpillar Inc., such as construction vehicles, engines, and power systems. They work closely with cross-functional teams to create innovative, efficient, and durable products that meet customer needs and industry standards. Their tasks can include creating CAD models, testing prototypes, analyzing performance data, and ensuring that designs comply with safety and environmental regulations.

What is the difference between Caterpillar Design Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectCaterpillar Design EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Civil, or related engineering; CAD certificationsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; CAD certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, heavy machinery, construction equipmentVarious industries including automotive, aerospace, manufacturing
Industry UsagePrimarily in heavy equipment manufacturing companies like CaterpillarBroadly across multiple industries

While both roles involve designing mechanical components, Caterpillar Design Engineers focus on heavy machinery and construction equipment, often working within manufacturing environments. Mechanical Design Engineers have a broader scope across industries, designing various mechanical systems. The key differences lie in industry specialization and the types of products designed.

More about Caterpillar Design Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Caterpillar Design Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Caterpillar Design Engineer jobs are:
Caterpillar Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Caterpillar Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 5% Full Time, 92% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,150 per year, or $42.4 per hour.
Senior Engineer-Design-Lafayette,Indiana

Senior Engineer-Design-Lafayette,Indiana

Caterpillar

$112K - $169K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Caterpillar Inc. rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 459 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

220th of 418 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

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.
WE BUILD WHAT MATTERS
What matters most to you? Is it being part of a strong team? Supporting your family? Solving global problems? You can do these and more at Caterpillar; where your work enables progress around the globe, and you contribute to meaningful work. Together, we can build what matters!
As a Structural Components Senior Engineer, you will have the opportunity to concept, develop, and design complex components while strengthening your analytical skills and mastery of engineering concepts. You will partner with and provide technical guidance to global teams. You will contribute to the planning and delivery of projects, continually learn and stay abreast of innovative technology, mentor and coach team members, and broaden your professional network. Work with design engineers, agency employees, manufacturing, global purchasing and suppliers to release/improve large fabricated structures and Lifting Systems in support of current and future NPI programs. Will support Lafayette and Griffin covering the C175, 3500, 3600, C280 and C27/32 engine platforms.
Job Duties/Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
  • Lead Global team in the design of Structural Components including Lifting Systems
  • Design and promote new components and sub processes
  • Technical evaluation of product design, wrt reliability, durability, validation cost, product cost and meeting program requirements
  • Apply NPI processes to conduct FMEAs, develop validation plans
  • Evaluate new products, processes, or systems
  • Complete projects on time and at cost
  • Communicate results to customers, suppliers, team members, and other business units
  • Leadership of supplier collaboration and CPPD

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in an accredited Engineering curriculum
  • Experience with ET101 Engine Lifting Eye Structural Evaluation and EACs-017 Lifting Eye Design Guide
  • Experience in publishing regulatory documents required by Customers, Dealers and Governmental Regulatory Agencies concerning the capacity of Lifting Systems.
  • At least 5 years of relevant work experience
  • 3 years heavy duty reciprocating engine design or development experience
  • Strong analytical skills
  • Emphasis on initiative, honesty and accountability in leading a small team of support personnel
  • Experience working collaboratively with process partners in manufacturing, logistics, purchasing, test & development and other L3, L4 and L5 Engineering groups
  • Ability to manage multiple critical projects and prioritize your work
  • Basic understanding of numerical simulation, inputs and results interpretation

Desired Qualifications:
  • Good communication, interpersonal and collaboration skills
  • Working knowledge of Caterpillar Engineering systems
  • Experience with APQP, CPPD, FMEAs and the section's role in releasing quality cast and fabricated components.
  • Experience with large fabricated structures
  • 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
  • Demonstrated acute, intense focus on the customers and their needs, both internal and external to Caterpillar

Additional Information:
  • Location of this position is in Lafayette, IN
  • Relocation assistance is available for this position
  • This position may require less than 10% travel.

This employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as H, L, TN, F, J, E, O. As a global company, Caterpillar offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S. which can be found through our employment website at www.caterpillar.com/careers
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO). All qualified individuals - including minorities, females, veterans and individuals with disabilities - are encouraged to apply.
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 16, 2026 - June 22, 2026
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.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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