- Senior
- Office in San Diego
Career Area:
EngineeringJob 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.
The Platforms, Technologies, and NPI group at Solar Turbines is at the forefront of developing innovative, next-generation products that drive customer success across a wide range of industries. We are seeking a highly capable and technically proficient Mechanical Design Engineer to join an agile development environment, focused on delivering high-impact solutions.
This role requires a strong foundation in mechanical design principles, particularly as they apply to turbomachinery systems. The ideal candidate demonstrates solid technical expertise and a collaborative mindset—capable of contributing to cross-functional problem-solving and translating design requirements into practical engineering solutions that support product performance, quality, and safety.
As a key contributor within a small, high-performing team, the Mechanical Design Engineer will:
- Help the Product Owner, Scrum Master, and team translate business needs and design requirements into actionable items to develop and improve the product design.
- Work closely with Field Service Representatives, Supply Chain, and Business Development to understand the root of technical challenges and provide effective, innovative solutions.
- Develop creative concepts and detailed mechanical designs that meet performance, safety, and manufacturability requirements.
- Develop and maintain detailed 3D models, engineering drawings, and Bills of Material (BOM) to support design implementation and documentation accuracy.
- Apply advanced mechanical engineering knowledge to the design and integration of complex systems.
- Willingness to take on new challenges and acquire cross-functional skills to enhance team capabilities.
- Support and mentor less experienced engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement.
This position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on the future of Solar’s product portfolio while working in a dynamic, collaborative environment that values innovation, initiative, and technical leadership.
Degree Requirement
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
What you need to have:
Technical Excellence:
- 8+ years of experience
- Demonstrated expertise in mechanical design and proficiency in CAD tools.
Decision Making and Critical Thinking:
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently on technical objectives.
Effective Communications:
- Effective communicator with experience in cross-functional collaboration and external customer interaction.
Desired Skills and Experience:
Technical Excellence:
- Experience with gas turbine systems and their operation
- Familiarity with Ansys SpaceClaim
- Knowledge of linked/configurable data
- Experience working in Agile development environments and familiarity with DevOps practices
- Practical understanding of solid and fluid mechanics, with the ability to utilize advanced analysis tools as needed.
About Caterpillar
Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. For nearly 100 years, we’ve been helping customers build a better, more sustainable world and are committed and contributing to a reduced-carbon future. Our innovative products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value that helps customers succeed.
Summary Pay Range:
$108,834.00 - $163,252.00Compensation 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. This employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as, H, L, TN, F, J, E, O. As a global company, Caterpillar offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S which can be found through our employment website at www.caterpillar.com/careers.Posting Dates:
October 17, 2025 - October 24, 2025Any 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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