Senior Structural & Multibody Dynamics Simulation Engineer

Caterpillar Inc.•Mossville, IL

5d•$112,710 - $169,060•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Structural & Multibody Dynamics Simulation Engineer on Caterpillar’s Industrial Power Systems Division (IPSD-L) structural and multibody dynamics team leads and executes core rotating component simulations using tools such as RUMBLE/BEAR, Abaqus, AVL EXCITE, or other multibody dynamics tools. The role applies technical expertise to identify, analyze, and help resolve complex problems involving crankshafts, camshafts, connecting rods, bearings, and related engine systems, while communicating risks, results, and recommendations to stakeholders. The position focuses on technical delivery, project leadership, and communication. The engineer partners with design, simulation, test, component, and platform teams to scope, plan, execute, and interpret analyses that improve the performance and durability of core rotating components. The role also contributes to simulation standard work, provides technical guidance and knowledge sharing, supports data-driven technical decisions, and helps improve tools and processes to enhance accuracy, robustness, and turnaround time. The position is onsite five days a week. Travel is less than 10%. Relocation is available; visa sponsorship is not available. A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related discipline is required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related discipline.
Understanding of accuracy and attention to detail, including the ability to complete tasks with precision.
Analytical thinking and ability to identify root causes and develop alternative solutions.
Effective communication skills, including accurately transmitting and interpreting ideas, information, and needs.
Problem-solving knowledge and ability to apply problem-solving approaches to diverse situations.
Technical knowledge and ability to develop solutions to significant technical challenges.
Project-management knowledge and ability to plan, organize, monitor, and control projects and resources.

Nice To Haves

Substantial multibody dynamics and finite element analysis experience.
Experience analyzing core rotating engine components, including crankshafts, camshafts, connecting rods, bearings, and geartrain systems.
Advanced finite element analysis experience using Abaqus, Nastran, ANSYS, or equivalent software for durability, fatigue, and structural assessments.
Experience with multibody dynamics tools such as Dynasty/TomSim, RUMBLE/BEAR, AVL EXCITE, Adams, Virtual.Lab Motion, or similar platforms.
Strong understanding of engine dynamics, vibration, bearing performance, and crank train system behavior.
Demonstrated ability to develop, validate, and correlate simulation models against test measurements and field data.
Ability to lead technical reviews and communicate complex simulation findings to engineering, manufacturing, and program leadership teams.
Experience supporting engine development programs through design reviews, root-cause investigations, and resolution of field reliability issues.

Responsibilities

Lead core rotating component simulation activities for crankshafts, camshafts, connecting rods, bearings, and related engine systems across supported platforms and applications.
Partner with component, platform, test, and design teams to clarify analysis needs, prioritize tasks, and deliver timely, high-quality results for durability and performance assessments.
Use multibody dynamics, finite element analysis, and engine-system understanding to troubleshoot complex issues, evaluate design trade-offs, and support root-cause analysis for development and field concerns.
Contribute to and improve simulation standard work, including model setup, correlation, result interpretation, quality checks, and documentation of assumptions and recommendations.
Conduct customer reviews and communicate technical information clearly, translating complex simulation results into risks, options, and actionable recommendations for technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Support multiple priorities and customers by aligning expectations, tracking deliverables, escalating risks, and maintaining clear communication on project status and technical decisions.
Provide technical guidance and knowledge sharing to engineers and external resources through coaching, technical reviews, training, and collaboration.