Manufacturing Engineer

Caterpillar•Lafayette, IN

49d•Onsite

About The Position

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 are seeking a highly skilled Manufacturing Engineer to join our manufacturing team in Lafayette, Indiana. This role is responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing manufacturing processes to drive safety, quality, and operational efficiency. The ideal candidate will partner cross-functionally with production, quality, and design engineering teams to support continuous improvement and new product introduction initiatives. You will play a critical role in improving throughput, reducing waste, and ensuring compliance with manufacturing standards. This position requires strong problem-solving skills, engineering expertise, and a passion for innovation in a production environment. If you thrive in fast-paced manufacturing settings and are motivated to drive measurable impact, we encourage you to apply. Job Summary: The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for leading process development, continuous improvement, and production support initiatives within a manufacturing facility. This role focuses on improving efficiency, quality, and cost performance through technical expertise, data-driven problem solving, and collaboration across engineering and operations teams. You will design and optimize manufacturing systems, implement new technologies, and ensure processes meet safety and regulatory standards.

Requirements

Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes (machining, assembly, fabrication, automation)
Experience with Lean Manufacturing , Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies
Data analysis and problem-solving skills using root cause techniques
Familiarity with CAD tools and manufacturing systems
Understanding of quality systems and regulatory compliance
Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment

Nice To Haves

Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification
Experience with automation, robotics, or Industry 4.0 technologies
Knowledge of ERP/MES systems
Exposure to cost modeling and capital project justification

Responsibilities

Design, develop, and implement manufacturing processes, equipment, and tooling
Analyze production data to identify process improvements and cost reduction opportunities
Lead continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean, Six Sigma, and root cause methodologies
Collaborate with design engineering to support Design for Manufacturability (DFM) initiatives
Optimize plant layout, workflow, and equipment utilization to improve throughput and efficiency
Support new product introduction (NPI) and process validation activities
Troubleshoot and resolve production issues impacting quality, safety, or delivery
Ensure compliance with safety regulations, environmental standards, and quality systems
Develop and maintain process documentation, SOPs, and work instructions
Partner with suppliers and vendors on tooling, equipment, and automation solutions