Fluids Senior Design Engineer

Career Area:

Engineering

Job Description:

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.

Job Summary:

The Fluids Engineering team is seeking an experienced Senior Design Engineer to support the development and ongoing improvement of industry‑leading fluid solutions. This role is responsible for advancing new fluid products that enhance system performance, durability, sustainability, and total cost of ownership across Caterpillar machines. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, engine, drivetrain, and gear oils, as well as greases and coolants. In this position, you will play a key role in ensuring Caterpillar products continue to deliver industry‑leading reliability, quality, and customer value while meeting cost, timing, and supply objectives.

What You Will Do:

• This position is focused on fluids product support, New Product Introduction (NPI), and Continuous Product Improvement (CPI), with opportunities to grow into other engineering activities to support the engine and cabin air filters engineering team.
• Evaluate and introduce new products to improve performance, durability, reliability, sustainability, and cost.
• Collaborate with internal partners and suppliers on technical activities to develop new fluid technologies through NPI.
• Support Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) activities to ensure components and systems meet quality, cost, and delivery requirements.
• Develop Multi-Generation Product Plan (MGPP) for assigned fluids products.
• Manage project timelines across a wide range of activities including concept development, Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), lab and field testing, pilot, and production launch readiness.
• Communicate technical progress, risks, and results to suppliers, team members, and cross‑functional stakeholders.
• Identify and drive process improvements while supporting personal and professional development.
• Participate in industry working groups and training programs to stay current on industry trends and regulatory changes, ensuring product offerings remain compliant with evolving requirements.

Education requirement:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering from an accredited institution (Chemical Engineering or related discipline preferred)

What skills you will have:

Product Design & Development:

• Demonstrates a strong technical foundation with the ability to take ownership of complex engineering challenges from concept through implementation.
• Proactively engages subject‑matter experts to efficiently resolve technical issues and drive optimal engineering solutions.
• Familiarity with Caterpillar NTI, NPI and CPI processes and the ability to apply them effectively in a product development environment.
• Strong knowledge of fluids, filtration systems, or related mechanical systems.

Managing Multiple Priorities:

• Effectively manages multiple priorities while maintaining project momentum and stakeholder alignment.
• Demonstrates strong time‑management skills when balancing competing deadlines and evolving requirements.
• Maintains strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and adaptability in dynamic development environments.
• Comfortable supporting multiple projects and guiding technologies from early concept through validation and production readiness.

Effective Communications:

• Communicates clearly and effectively, translating technical concepts for diverse audiences.
• Builds strong working relationships with cross‑functional partners, suppliers, and customers.
• Collaborates successfully with global teams across multiple time zones.
• Values structured development and quality processes, with experience working within frameworks such as APQP.

Additional Information:

This position requires the candidate to work onsite five days a week at the Peoria, IL office.

Domestic relocation assistance is NOT available for this position.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available with this position.

This position may require up to 25% travel.

Summary Pay Range:

$112,710.00 - $169,060.00

Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.

Benefits:

Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits*

• Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*

• 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

• These benefits also apply to part-time employees

This position requires working onsite five days a week.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates:

April 13, 2026 - April 27, 2026

Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.

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