Senior Design Engineer
About The Position
The Large Power Systems Division (LPSD) is part of Caterpillar’s Power & Energy segment and designs and manufactures large diesel and natural gas engines, powertrains, and engine systems. LPSD products support power generation, industrial, marine, oil and gas, rail, services, and Cat machine applications worldwide. The Senior Design Engineer leads and executes Mechanical Engineering Design to Order (DTO) projects for the Lafayette Engine Center. The role works with internal and external partners to support the design, integration, and application of 3500, C175, and 3600/C280 genset mechanical systems for Marine, Oil & Gas, and Electric Power markets. Work is primarily individual-contributor work on medium- to high-complexity custom engine and genset design projects, with technical leadership responsibilities. The position calls for expertise in large engine and genset design, application, and system integration, strong analytical and people skills, and the ability to address customer concerns accurately and urgently. The position is located in Lafayette, Indiana, may require up to 5% travel, and offers domestic relocation assistance. Sponsorship is not available. The posting closes November 15, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Engineering, Materials Science, or an Engineering Technology curriculum.
- Strong analytical skills and mastery of engineering concepts.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and collaboration skills.
- Ability to lead teams in identifying and implementing solutions to complex engineering problems.
Nice To Haves
- Engineering experience with gas or diesel engines and/or genset mechanical systems, including troubleshooting.
- Experience with couplings, bases, generator mechanical design, and genset integration or installation.
- Experience with mechanical design using Creo or other 3D modeling software.
- Technical team leadership experience.
- Examples of developing solutions to engineering problems using strong analytical skills.
- Demonstrated customer focus and experience addressing customer concerns with urgency.
- Master’s or other advanced degree in Engineering or Business.
Responsibilities
- Execute medium- to high-complexity Design to Order projects involving custom engine and genset design.
- Design custom mechanical systems for engines and gensets, including bases, couplings, engine and genset attachments, generator mountings, and alignment.
- Provide technical leadership on DTO projects for self and others.
- Evaluate new project opportunities and develop solutions and improvements to meet customer design requirements.
- Communicate results to internal customers, suppliers, team members, and business unit leadership.
- Make customers and management aware of trade-offs among time, cost, and quality.
- Engage internal and external partners to support the design, integration, and application of genset mechanical systems.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
- Paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and volunteer time.
- 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.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
