Senior Associate Engineer- Structure

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.

Role Definition:

Assists in the design, analysis, development, and testing of structural components used in construction machinery. This role offers significant opportunities for career growth and development, as you will oversee the entire process, from the conceptualisation of the design to its implementation in production. You will have the chance to make a real impact on our products and processes.

Responsibilities

• Support the design strategy defined by the L4 Design Architect (e.g. fabrication and casting design / part minimisation / re-manufacturability / etc.)
• Generate concepts/designs to meet technical and manufacturability objectives.
• Support in identifying risk using DFMEAs.
• Verify/validate risk in the design through FEA verification techniques.
• Perform virtual structural analysis where required.
• Present Design Review Packs and presentation at the Design Review
• Use of virtual risk mitigation techniques (e.g. Stack-tolerance analysis, Hand calculations, component & sub-system simulation)
• Use SME review and best practice guides to mitigate risk in potential designs.
• Technical support for physical validation of design using OMSA and other structural rigs.
• Purchase team collaboration to identify potential suppliers.
• Engaging in Concurrent Process and Product Development (CPPD) involves collaborating with suppliers to develop concepts and parts that align with their manufacturing capabilities and cost targets.
• Analysing component cost quoted against the Should Cost tool.
• Collaboration with internal customers, such as Manufacturing Engineering, Receiving and line quality, and the operations team, is essential for safety and ease of assembly. Regular communication and coordination with these teams.
• Support for Continuous Product Improvement projects to guarantee that the end customer experiences the expected levels of component reliability and durability.

Skill Descriptors

Analytical Thinking: Knowledge of techniques and tools that promote effective analysis; ability to determine the root cause of problems and create alternative solutions that resolve these problems.

• Approaches a situation or problem by defining the problem or issue and determining its significance.
• Makes a systematic comparison of two or more alternative solutions.
• Uses flow charts, Pareto charts, fish diagrams, etc., to disclose meaningful data patterns.

Decision Making and Critical Thinking: Knowledge of the decision-making process and associated tools and techniques; ability to accurately analyse situations.

Level Working Knowledge:

Applies an assigned technique for critical thinking in a decision-making process.

• Identifies, obtains, and organises relevant data and ideas.
• Participates in documenting data, ideas, and processes.
• Recognises, clarifies, and prioritises concerns.

Assists in assessing risks and benefits and considering alternatives.

Effective Communications: Understanding effective communication concepts, tools and techniques; effectively transmitting, receiving, and accurately interpreting ideas, information, and needs by applying appropriate communication behaviours.

Level Extensive Experience:

• Adapts documents and presentations for the intended audience.
• Communicates well downward, upward, and outward.
• Maintains focus on the topic at hand.

Technical Excellence: Knowledge of a given technology in heavy fabrication; ability to develop and provide solutions.

Level Working Knowledge:

• Identifies effective technical solutions to routine functional challenges via sound technical competence.
• Effectively performs technical job aspects, continuously builds knowledge, and keeps up-to-date on technical and procedural job components.
• Applies current procedures and technologies to help resolve technical issues in one's general area of technical competence.

Project Management: Knowledge of effective project management strategies and tactics; ability to plan, organise, monitor, and control projects.

Level Working Knowledge:

• Provides input for Gantt or PERT charts or their equivalent to track project progress and status.
• Under guidance, plans and estimates simple projects.
• Assists in detailed project plans, including cost, schedule, and resource requirements.

Manufacturing Standards, Procedures and Policies: Knowledge of organisational standards, procedures and policies in manufacturing activities; ability to plan, guide, and monitor manufacturing processes for compliance.

Level Basic Understanding:

• Describes and follows all policies, standards and procedures.
• Obtains documentation and information on standards and their usage.

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor's / Master's degree (or equivalent) in an accredited Engineering – Mechanical, Production, or Material Science.

Experience:

Preferred 8 years of relevant experience can be negotiated based on the skill level.

Relocation is available for this position.

Posting Dates:

October 9, October 21, 2025

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply

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