Caterpillar Inc.
Senior Design Engineer – Hydraulics
Caterpillar Inc., Decatur, Illinois, United States, 62523
Senior Design Engineer – Hydraulics
Caterpillar Inc.
Job Description 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.
Caterpillar is looking for a Senior Design Engineer performing Hydraulic Installation work on a high-impact team supporting our Large Wheel Loader and Wheel Tractor Scraper product lines within the Load and Haul Division. This is more than a job—it's a chance to shape the future of hydraulic systems in heavy equipment that operate in the toughest environments on the planet.
As a Senior Design Engineer, you’ll be designing and integrating cutting‑edge hydraulic systems. You’ll be placing pumps, motors, valves, and cylinders, and designing the network of hoses, tubes, and sheet metal that brings these machines to life, and mentoring less experienced team members.
Responsibilities
Lead innovation in hydraulic installation for mining and construction equipment.
Mentor and inspire less experienced team members to deliver high-performance, durable, and serviceable systems.
Collaborate across the value chain to drive New Product Introduction, Continuous Product Improvement, and Cost Reduction.
Shape the future by improving tools, processes, and design standards across the enterprise.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Engineering or Computer Science from an accredited institution.
Skills That Set You Apart
Experienced in hydraulic and/or engine installation (or a related design field) with a background in construction, mining, or agricultural equipment. Skilled across multiple engineering functions; Creo experience is a plus. Strong knowledge in hydraulic systems design, mentoring engineers, and cross‑functional collaboration.
Project Management: Experienced in planning, estimating, and managing complex projects. Able to identify risks, develop contingency plans, and maintain clear communication with stakeholders.
Requirements Analysis: Experienced in documenting and modeling functional requirements. Proficient in using advanced tools for prototyping and ensuring traceability.
Troubleshooting Technical Problems: Capable of resolving high-impact equipment and system issues using advanced diagnostics. Experienced in evaluating business impact, monitoring performance trends, and mentoring others in complex, multi‑vendor environments.
Product Design and Development: Demonstrated ability to develop standards and introduce innovative techniques to streamline product development. Skilled in managing diverse product lines, leading proof‑of‑concept initiatives, and designing functional prototypes to validate new concepts.
Pay Range $110,520.00 – $165,840.00
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
Location Decatur, IL or Mossville, IL (AC)
Travel Up to 15%
Relocation Assistance Available to Decatur, IL only
Visa Sponsorship Not available
Posting Dates December 11, 2025 – January 8, 2026
Equal Opportunity 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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Job Description 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.
Caterpillar is looking for a Senior Design Engineer performing Hydraulic Installation work on a high-impact team supporting our Large Wheel Loader and Wheel Tractor Scraper product lines within the Load and Haul Division. This is more than a job—it's a chance to shape the future of hydraulic systems in heavy equipment that operate in the toughest environments on the planet.
As a Senior Design Engineer, you’ll be designing and integrating cutting‑edge hydraulic systems. You’ll be placing pumps, motors, valves, and cylinders, and designing the network of hoses, tubes, and sheet metal that brings these machines to life, and mentoring less experienced team members.
Responsibilities
Lead innovation in hydraulic installation for mining and construction equipment.
Mentor and inspire less experienced team members to deliver high-performance, durable, and serviceable systems.
Collaborate across the value chain to drive New Product Introduction, Continuous Product Improvement, and Cost Reduction.
Shape the future by improving tools, processes, and design standards across the enterprise.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Engineering or Computer Science from an accredited institution.
Skills That Set You Apart
Experienced in hydraulic and/or engine installation (or a related design field) with a background in construction, mining, or agricultural equipment. Skilled across multiple engineering functions; Creo experience is a plus. Strong knowledge in hydraulic systems design, mentoring engineers, and cross‑functional collaboration.
Project Management: Experienced in planning, estimating, and managing complex projects. Able to identify risks, develop contingency plans, and maintain clear communication with stakeholders.
Requirements Analysis: Experienced in documenting and modeling functional requirements. Proficient in using advanced tools for prototyping and ensuring traceability.
Troubleshooting Technical Problems: Capable of resolving high-impact equipment and system issues using advanced diagnostics. Experienced in evaluating business impact, monitoring performance trends, and mentoring others in complex, multi‑vendor environments.
Product Design and Development: Demonstrated ability to develop standards and introduce innovative techniques to streamline product development. Skilled in managing diverse product lines, leading proof‑of‑concept initiatives, and designing functional prototypes to validate new concepts.
Pay Range $110,520.00 – $165,840.00
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
Location Decatur, IL or Mossville, IL (AC)
Travel Up to 15%
Relocation Assistance Available to Decatur, IL only
Visa Sponsorship Not available
Posting Dates December 11, 2025 – January 8, 2026
Equal Opportunity Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
#J-18808-Ljbffr