Application Engineer

Caterpillar Inc.•Lafayette, IN

2d•$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. The Large Power Systems Division (LPSD) is part of Caterpillar’s Power & Energy segment. Through this global organization, Caterpillar designs and manufactures large (greater than 18 liters) diesel and natural gas engines, powertrains and key engine systems. LPSD products and solutions support customers across power generation, industrial, marine, oil & gas, rail, services and Cat® machine applications worldwide. LPSD teams work across regions and function to deliver safe, reliable and compliant solutions that help solve our customers’ toughest challenges. As a Performance/Simulation/Application Engineer with the Large Power Systems Division, you will serve as an experienced contributor on projects and assignments that are complex in nature and that support and enhance Caterpillar product performance, durability, reliability and quality. You will partner with and provide technical guidance to global teams. You will continually learn and stay abreast of innovative technology. You will also continue to grow your professional network.

Requirements

Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, aeronautical engineering or a related engineering discipline
Strong proficiency in structural FEA, including nonlinear material behavior, contact modeling, and non-metallic seal material, such as rubbers and gaskets.
Experience performing thermal and thermo‑mechanical coupled (TMF) simulations for durability assessment.
Ability to conduct fatigue life prediction (HCF, LCF, TMF) using industry‑standard or Caterpillar fatigue analysis methods and tools.
Skilled in interpreting simulation results, identifying critical stresses/failure modes, and providing design recommendations.
Proficiency with major CAE solvers such as Abaqus or ANSYS Mechanical.
Strong capability with pre/post‑processing workflows using tools like Abaqus, Simlab or HyperMesh.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to handle increasingly complex assignments through experience.
Excellent communication skills for conveying technical information to team members and other teams.
Demonstrated project leadership capabilities.
Accuracy and Attention to Detail: Working knowledge and understanding the necessity and value of accuracy; ability to complete tasks with high levels of precision.
Effective Communications: Working knowledge and 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.
Problem Solving: Extensive experience and knowledge of approaches, tools, techniques for recognizing, anticipating, and resolving organizational, operational or process problems; ability to apply knowledge of problem solving appropriately to diverse situations.
Technical Excellence: Working knowledge of a given technology and various application methods; ability to develop and provide solutions to significant technical challenges.
Project Management: Basic understanding and knowledge of effective project management strategies and tactics; ability to plan, organize, monitor, and control projects, ensuring efficient utilization of technical and administrative resources to achieve project objectives.

Nice To Haves

Understanding of internal combustion engine loading, kinematics, and durability drivers.
Knowledge of high‑temperature material behavior, cyclic thermal gradients, and engine thermal‑stress mechanisms.
Knowledge and experience in manufacturing processes, such as casting, forging, welding, and heat treatment.
Experience with scripting and automation (Python, C/C++, FORTRAN) to streamline pre/post‑processing and batch simulation workflows.
Experience with fatigue/durability tools such as fe‑safe.

Responsibilities

Perform finite‑element (FEA) projects for engine core components, including cylinder heads, blocks, liners and pistons.
Execute coupled coolant CFD-heat transfer analysis, structural analysis and thermo‑mechanical fatigue (TMF) simulations to assess component performance and durability.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define simulation requirements for new product development, current product issue resolution, and cost reduction projects.
Prepare clear documentation of analysis objectives, assumptions, methods, results, and conclusions.
Interpret simulation results and provide actionable recommendations for design improvements.
Collaborate with engine test teams to improve simulation tool capabilities
Stay current with emerging technologies and contribute to the development of new simulation methods and tools.