Mechanical Design Engineering Technologist

Caterpillar Inc.•Champaign, IL

1d•$97,530 - $146,290•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. Mechanical Design Engineering Technologist Locations: Decatur, IL – Champaign, IL - Mossville, IL (AC) Travel: Up to 15% Relocation Assistance: Available Visa Sponsorship: Not Available Job Summary Caterpillar is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineering Technologist to support L4 system design for LWL/CWD Large Structures, driving innovative mechanical solutions aligned to L6 down‑selected system QVC requirements. This role focuses on mechanical design engineering excellence, including structural weldments, thick‑section components, manufacturability, and automation‑ready designs. You will collaborate across CPPD (Concurrent Product and Process Development) teams, translating functional and performance requirements into robust mechanical designs that meet cost, quality, durability, and manufacturing objectives. This role plays a critical part in shaping next‑generation Caterpillar products through hands‑on mechanical design leadership from concept through production. Degree Requirement: Degree or equivalent experience.

Requirements

Demonstrated experience designing mechanical systems and large structural components from concept through production.
Proficient in CREO for mechanical modeling, assemblies, and detailed drawings.
Experience with weldments, castings, thick plates, wear materials, and structural load paths.
Working knowledge of robotic welding, BTS cutting processes, CNC machining, and automation‑focused design.
Experience performing L4 design based on L6 system requirements, including trade studies and design validation.
Ability to plan, organize, and execute mechanical design work within structured project frameworks.
Strong troubleshooting skills for resolving mechanical and manufacturing issues in production environments.

Nice To Haves

Working knowledge of finite element analysis for static and dynamic structural validation.
Experience with fatigue, impact loading, abrasion, and wear mechanisms in heavy equipment applications.
Understanding of serviceability and lifecycle performance for large mechanical structures.
Ability to influence design decisions through technical expertise across engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain teams.

Responsibilities

Perform mechanical design for Large Structures (QVC) supporting LWL/WDC NPI and CPI programs, with strong emphasis on Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA).
Develop and document mechanical functional requirements, translating L6 system requirements into detailed L4 mechanical designs, models, and drawings.
Design and optimize structural weldments, thick‑plate and thick‑wall cast components (≥25 mm), balancing strength, weight, durability, and cost.
Apply mechanical engineering fundamentals (statics, dynamics, fatigue, load paths, material behavior) to large‑scale structures including buckets, work tools, linkages, frames, bodies, liners, pins, bearings, and joints.
Lead mechanical layout, tolerance, and GD&T definition, including fixturing concepts for finished weldments and machined components.
Collaborate with manufacturing partners to enable robotic welding, BTS (laser/plasma/gas cutting), CNC machining, and paint automation, improving supply chain efficiency.
Participate in Go See Act workshops, pilot builds, and pre‑production validation activities, supporting mechanical issue resolution and continuous improvement.
Support PMO‑based project plans, providing mechanical design status, risk assessments, and set‑based design recommendations.