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Entry Level R&D Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Peoria, IL

Rfamec

Control Systems Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

We are seeking an entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering ...

ITC, Inc.

Quality Engineer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Our large manufacturing client located in Peoria, Illinois, is looking for an entry-level Quality ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing, or related field preferred)

Stellantis

Entry Level Cost Engineer

Peoria, IL · On-site

The Cost Engineer role develops detailed cost estimates for components and tooling using an ... Piece Price, ED&D, Tooling) * Contribute to benchmarking and value optimization activities ...

Stellantis

Entry Level Cost Engineer

Peoria, IL · On-site

The Cost Engineer role develops detailed cost estimates for components and tooling using an ... Piece Price, ED&D, Tooling) * Contribute to benchmarking and value optimization activities ...

U.S. Navy

Engineering Duty Officer

Peoria, IL · On-site

Naval/Mechanical Engineering * Electrical/Electronics Engineering * Space Systems Engineering ... Most EDOs are stationed at shore commands in Washington, D.C., Norfolk, VA, or San Diego, CA ...

U.S. Navy

Engineering Duty Officer

Peoria, IL · On-site

Naval/Mechanical Engineering * Electrical/Electronics Engineering * Space Systems Engineering ... Most EDOs are stationed at shore commands in Washington, D.C., Norfolk, VA, or San Diego, CA ...

Rfamec

Embedded Software Test Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

We are seeking an entry-level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... D evelop, execute, and document Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) validation strategies, test plans, and ...

Pepsico

Fleet Technician 3 (Entry Level)

Morton, IL · On-site

$28.93/hr

Fleet Mechanics play a key role in the success of our business by ensuring the reliability of our ... Female / Minority / Disability / Protected Veteran / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity If you'd ...

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Entry Level R D Mechanical Engineer information

See Peoria, IL salary details

$17

$32

$53

How much do entry level r&d mechanical engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level r&d mechanical engineer in Peoria, IL is $32.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.39 and $36.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level R&D Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectEntry Level R&D Mechanical EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related fieldBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, development teams, innovation-focused settingsDesign offices, manufacturing facilities, product development teams
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, R&D departmentsManufacturers, engineering firms, product companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level R&D roles in mechanical engineeringDifferences in design-focused mechanical engineering roles

Entry Level R&D Mechanical Engineers focus on developing new technologies and prototypes in research environments, while Mechanical Design Engineers primarily work on designing and improving existing products for manufacturing. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in daily tasks and work settings.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level R&D Mechanical Engineer jobs in Peoria, IL?

For Entry Level R&D Mechanical Engineer jobs in Peoria, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level R&D Mechanical Engineer jobs in Peoria, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level R&D Mechanical Engineer jobs in Peoria, IL are:

What cities near Peoria, IL are hiring for Entry Level R&D Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Peoria, IL with the most Entry Level R&D Mechanical Engineer job openings:

Entry Level R D Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level R&D Mechanical Engineer job openings in Peoria, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $67,756 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

2027 Engineering Rotational Development Program (ERDP) - Product Development Track

Caterpillar

Mossville, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Rotate through different engineering teams and projects to gain practical experience.

  • Design components and systems for Caterpillar products, collaborating with cross-functional teams.

  • Conduct analyses such as CFD, FEA, and system performance optimization, and develop control system algorithms.

Caterpillar Inc. rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 489 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

274th of 499 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.
Start Your Career with Purpose
Are you ready to apply your engineering education to real-world challenges? Caterpillar's Engineering Rotational Development Program (ERDP) is designed for entry-level professionals like you. Through rotational assignments, you'll continue developing your skills and knowledge-helping you achieve your career goals while contributing to Caterpillar's mission of delivering exceptional products, services, and technologies to our customers. Our Engineering Rotational Development Program is an entry-level program designed to build employees' skill sets within the discipline and continue growth, even after the successful completion of the program.
This 12 to 18-month program provides practical experience across multiple engineering teams and technologies. It's more than just a job, it's a launchpad for your future at one of the world's leading manufacturers of construction and mining equipment.
What the Program Offers
As part of the ERDP, you'll rotate through different teams and projects that match your skills, knowledge, and abilities. You'll work on meaningful projects, connect with mentors, and get exposure to various areas of the company. Here are just a few paths you might explore:
  • Product Design: Design components and systems for Caterpillar products to meet customer needs. Collaborate with cross-functional teams throughout the value chain-from concept to production-to deliver effective solutions.
  • Simulation/Performance Analysis: Conduct analyses such as CFD [Computational Fluid Dynamics] (ANSYS), FEA [Finite Element Analysis], 3D modelling, system/subsystem/component design optimization, structural dynamics, development and optimization of engine, aftertreatment, battery, fuel cell, powertrain, and/or machine system performance.
  • Test/Validation/Hands-on: Apply strong mechanical engineering understanding in a test/validation (hands-on) environment, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with others for optimal results.
  • Controls Development: Develop/implement control system algorithms using Matlab/Simulink for various control systems including, but not limited to, engine controllers, machine implement controllers, as well as powertrain controllers. Will be responsible for understanding the feature requirement, implementing it, as well as testing it prior to a production rollout.
  • Electronic Components: Design and test various electronic control modules, as well as various electronic components. Work with various internal Caterpillar clients to understand controller/component requirements, help design PCB [Printed Circuit Board] layouts, as well as perform digital/analog/power circuit analysis and testing. Other duties may include working with suppliers, testing the controllers/components in various environments, ensuring that FMEAs [Failure Mode and Effects Analysis] are conducted and documented to meet stringent Caterpillar quality requirements.
  • Embedded Software Development: Develop embedded software in C, C#, and/or C++ for various electronic control modules. Some examples of embedded software development applications include Datalink communications, inputs and outputs (sensors and actuators), speed calculation, injection/spark timing, memory management, CPU optimization, multi-core design and implementation. In addition, some areas of work include developing scripts in Python/Visual Basic for automation.
  • Software Validation/Verification for Electronic Systems: Verify functionality of a feature or control system algorithm on a HIL [Hardware in the Loop] simulator bench or a SIL [Software in the Loop] system. Understand the requirements of the feature and/or the schematics of the controller/control system, verify functionality and debug/report anomalies to the development team, and help validate fixes.
  • Engineering Data Analytics: Write and understand computer code, Python, analytics/data science experience, apply machine learning concepts/tools, engineering and statistics fundamentals.
  • Process Engineering: Apply mechanical, manufacturing, systems and/or industrial engineering knowledge to analyze and optimize an engineering process or processes. Leverage problem-solving and communication skills.

What You Have - Skills and Experiences
In this role, you will have the opportunity to contribute your unique skills and experiences. Below are some of the most critical skills:
  • Analytical skills, initiating ideas, troubleshooting, root cause analysis, problem-solving, and critical thinking capabilities
  • Knowledge of engineering principles, theory, and engineering experience gained through projects, internships, and/or relevant work experience
  • Fundamental understanding of engineering for a manufacturing environment and the ability to design and implement materials, structures, machines, devices, systems, and processes that safely realize a desired objective or invention
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and quickly acquire and apply new skills and knowledge
  • Collaborate with others of diverse cultures, interpersonal styles, and abilities
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Participate in and build on our inclusive, constructive, and productive work environment
  • Ensure all team members' contributions are recognized and valued

Program Qualifications
  • Must have an ABET-accredited Bachelor's or master's degree in mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Agricultural, or Aerospace Engineering; Engineering Technology; or a related technical discipline (selected candidates must obtain their degree before they start)
  • Must have a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0/4.0 or higher (no rounding)
  • Candidates with prior professional work experience must have 12 months or less of such experience, excluding internships
  • Willing to relocate and travel as needed

Top Candidates May Also Have
  • Involvement with a campus design/competition team or related experience
  • Project or team leadership experience
  • Previous technical internship/co-op or relevant experience
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
  • Intellectual curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to learn by doing

Additional Information
  • Must attach your resume and an unofficial/official copy of your transcript to your application
  • Applicants will be considered for positions throughout the United States
  • Most positions are based in Peoria, Illinois, with limited availability in other United States' locations
  • This is a Monday through Friday, in-person opportunity-perfect for building relationships, learning fast, and diving deep into your rotations
  • Sponsorship is NOT available for this position
  • Relocation is available to those who qualify
  • 2027 available start dates - February 1, 2027; June 7, 2027; July 12, 2027; or August 2, 2027 (seats are limited for each start date)

Why Choose Caterpillar?
We're a values-driven company where you'll feel your work matters-whether you're optimizing machine performance, writing embedded code, or designing the next innovation in clean energy. You'll gain access to top-tier mentorship, technical resources, and real ownership of your work from day one.
Final Details
Please regularly check the email associated with your application-including your junk/spam folder-as this will be our primary method of communication. To check the status of your application, please visit our career website using the candidate login, as it will reflect any updates to your status.
Interested applicants should explore our direct hire positions at www.caterpillar.com/careers. For more information, visit caterpillar.com. To connect with us on social media, visit caterpillar.com/social-media.
Summary Pay Range:
$81,370.00 - $133,810.00
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
Relocation is available for this position.
Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Posting Dates:
August 17, 2026 - December 30, 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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