Packaging Engineer

Caterpillar Inc.•Morton, IL

3d•$81,370 - $122,060•Onsite

About The Position

Our Product Support and Logistics Division (PSLD) is one of the most innovative divisions within Caterpillar. In PSLD, as within all of Caterpillar, our priority is our customers and helping them build a better world. We touch nearly every element of the services value stream. PSLD is responsible for Aftermarket Parts Distribution of Cat Parts, Integrated Logistics and Global Services supporting Caterpillar dealers and customers. Our teams work together in critical areas that leverage digital capabilities, technology and operational excellence. As a Packaging Engineer, you will collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders and external partners to design, develop, and continuously improve packaging solutions for Aftermarket Parts.

Requirements

Accuracy and Attention to Detail: Understanding the necessity and value of accuracy; ability to complete tasks with high levels of precision.
Analytical Thinking: Knowledge of techniques and tools that promote effective analysis; ability to determine the root cause of organizational problems and create alternative solutions that resolve these problems.
Collaborating: Knowledge of collaborative techniques; ability to work with a variety of individuals and groups in a constructive and collaborative manner.
Decision Making and Critical Thinking: Knowledge of the decision-making process and associated tools and techniques; ability to accurately analyze situations and reach productive decisions based on informed judgment.
Effective Communications: Understanding of effective communication concepts, tools and techniques; ability to effectively transmit, receive, and accurately interpret ideas, information, and needs through the application of appropriate communication behaviors.
Packaging: Knowledge of packaging tools, approaches and practices; ability to package products and components safely and attractively.
Service Excellence: Knowledge of customer service concepts and techniques; ability to meet or exceed customer needs and expectations and provide excellent service in a direct or indirect manner.

Nice To Haves

Degree in Engineering or a related technical field, or equivalent experience.
Internship, co-op, project, or hands-on experience in a manufacturing, warehouse, distribution, or supply chain environment.
Strong customer service mindset with the ability to build positive relationships and support internal and external customers.
Exposure to working with suppliers, vendors, or cross-functional teams through coursework, internships, co-ops, or professional experience.
Interest in aftermarket parts distribution, logistics, and supply chain operations.
Foundational understanding of packaging principles, materials, or processes gained through coursework, projects, internships, or work experience.
Knowledge of manufacturing safety practices and a commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to evaluate information and identify practical solutions.
Effective communication skills with the ability to collaborate across teams and clearly share information.
Experience interpreting technical information, engineering drawings, specifications, or manufacturing documentation through academic projects, internships, or professional experience.

Responsibilities

Design, develop, and implement packaging solutions that protect aftermarket parts throughout storage, transportation, and distribution.
Collaborate with suppliers, procurement teams, product groups, and cross-functional partners to deliver effective customer-ready packaging solutions.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on packaging safety, quality, sustainability, and cost optimization.
Provide onsite support to packaging and warehouse operations, troubleshooting packaging issues and identifying opportunities for operational improvement.
Conduct audits of supplier packaging solutions to ensure compliance with packaging standards and specifications.
Develop and implement corrective actions to address packaging nonconformances, quality concerns, and transportation-related damage.
Communicate audit findings, recommendations, and corrective actions to suppliers, customers, and internal stakeholders.
Evaluate part characteristics, handling requirements, and distribution network data to determine optimal packaging methods and materials.
Monitor packaging performance and investigate quality issues to improve product protection and customer satisfaction.
Create, maintain, and continuously improve packaging standards, specifications, and best practices.
Provide customer service and technical support for packaging-related questions and issues from internal and external stakeholders around the world.
Review engineering drawings, part specifications, and technical documentation to determine packaging requirements and develop appropriate packaging solutions.
Support supplier packaging quality efforts by ensuring parts are packaged, shipped, and delivered in accordance with established standards and customer expectations.