Component Design Engineer – Large Engine

Caterpillar Inc.

Component Design Engineer developing Caterpillar’s diesel, natural gas, and alternative-fuel engine components. Leading global design, validation, supplier collaboration, and product improvement programs.

Posted 8/4/2026full-timeLafayette • Illinois • 🇺🇸 United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $112,710 - $169,060 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in designing and validating core engine components, including valvetrain and rotating components, while applying NPI processes and conducting FMEAs. Possesses strong analytical skills and effective communication abilities to lead global teams and collaborate with suppliers and engineering groups.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Core Engine Component DesignNPI ProcessesFMEAs3D Modeling SoftwareHeavy-Duty Reciprocating Engine Experience

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Analytical ThinkingRoot-Cause AnalysisProduct DesignManufacturing KnowledgeComputer-Aided DesignValidation PlanningTechnical Problem SolvingNumerical SimulationComponent Release ProcessesMechanical Aptitude

Soft Skills

Effective CommunicationProject ManagementMentoringCollaboration

Tools & Technologies

Caterpillar Engineering Systems3D Modeling Software

Industry Keywords

Diesel EnginesNatural Gas EnginesAlternative-Fuel EnginesMining TrucksMarine EnginesLocomotivesPetroleum EnginesElectric Power Generation

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead a global team designing core engine components, including valvetrain, rotating components, heads, blocks, and housings
Design and promote new components and subprocesses
Technically evaluate product design, reliability, durability, validation cost, product cost, and program requirements
Apply NPI processes to conduct FMEAs, formulate validation plans, and complete validation activities
Evaluate new products, processes, or systems, including supplier change requests
Complete projects on time and at cost for NTI, NPI, CPI, and NSI programs
Communicate results to customers, suppliers, team members, and other business units
Lead supplier collaboration and CPPD activities
Concept, develop, and design components and systems for diesel, natural gas, and alternative-fuel reciprocating engines
Partner with and provide technical guidance to global teams
Work with engineering, agency, manufacturing, purchasing, and supplier teams to design, release, and validate core engine components
Mentor and coach team members
Travel domestically and internationally as required, up to 20%

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in an accredited Engineering curriculum OR relevant experience
Extensive analytical thinking and root-cause analysis knowledge
Extensive effective communication knowledge
Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects and priorities
Extensive technical knowledge and ability to solve significant technical challenges
Extensive computer-aided design and engineering knowledge
Extensive product design and manufacturing knowledge
Extensive product design and development knowledge
Heavy-duty reciprocating engine design or development experience preferred for top candidates
Experience collaborating with manufacturing, logistics, purchasing, test and development, and engineering groups
Basic understanding of numerical simulation, inputs, and results interpretation
Working knowledge of Caterpillar Engineering systems
Experience with APQP, CPPD, FMEAs, and component release processes
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, or electric power generation
Ability to work onsite five days a week
Ability to travel up to 20% domestically and internationally
Must not require employer-tied visa sponsorship; visa sponsorship is not available

Benefits

Comp & perks

Relocation assistance
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
Professional growth opportunities, including leadership programs