Manufacturing Engineer

Career Area:

Job Description:

Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.

When you join Caterpillar, youre 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 dont 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 Inc is the world s leading manufacturer of off-highway machinery and diesel and natural gas engines. The Caterpillar brand is recognized worldwide and is synonymous with quality and reliability.

The Industrial Power Systems Division currently has a new and exciting opportunity for a Manufacturing Engineer. This position works both independently and as part of a team to maintain and improve processes and systems used in manufacturing. In addition, Manufacturing Engineers function as a specialist and subject matter expert for technical planning throughout a manufacturing facility. As Manufacturing Engineer, you will have an opportunity to provide the technical expertise necessary to design, develop, and implement manufacturing systems, manufacturing operations and state of the art machines.

JOB PURPOSE: To provide expertise in specific areas of the manufacturing process to ensure the most efficient and cost-effective manufacture of product.

Job Duties/Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

This is a staff position which is expected to function as a Controls & Automation specialist with respect to a specific technical phase of the manufacturing engineering function and which generally falls within the major areas of releasing, Engine Assembly, Test, Paint processing, assembly processing, layout, work standards and manufacturing development.

Work assignments may be specialized in nature but may also be broad based with coordination between other staff personnel to complete a larger project.

Incumbents evaluate projects to define desired results and determine logical approaches.

Evaluates such factors as cost, personnel yearly usage, equipment, space, etc. as well as other information needed to determine requirements.

Prepares feasibility studies for appropriateness and cost effectiveness and submits recommendations accordingly.

Results contribute to the effective management decisions in determining the most efficient processes, methods, machinery, tools, equipment, services and systems needed in the manufacture of product.

Adheres to established standards, policies and practices relating to quality, cost reduction, safety, ergonomics, etc. in performing assigned duties.

Key Responsibilities:

Controls & Automation Engineering

• Design, develop, and maintain PLC programs for conveyors, special-purpose machines, nutrunners, test stations, robotic cells, and CNC machines.
• Engineer VFDs, PLC panels, and electrical control systems using Eplan.
• Select and integrate protection devices, instruments, meters, drives, sensors, and safety systems.
• Develop electrical and electronic wiring designs for manufacturing equipment (nutrunners, leak testers, scanners, pin markers, cameras, robots, and servo press units).
• Configure and troubleshoot Fieldbus communication protocols (Ethernet TCP/IP, Profibus, ProfiNet, Serial Communication).
• Prepare schematic diagrams, signal line diagrams, terminal details, cable schedules, and BOMs.
• Provide technical support during Special Purpose machine commissioning, including on-site troubleshooting and validation.
• Stay updated on automation trends, Industry 4.0, and PLC technology advancements.

Manufacturing Process Optimization

• Plan and implement factory layouts for optimal space utilization and efficiency.
• Develop and optimize assembly processes for New Product Introduction (NPI) and Concurrent Product & Process Development (CPPD).
• Ensure smooth product transitions from engineering to manufacturing.
• Identify and address process inefficiencies, bottlenecks, ergonomic concerns, and safety improvements.
• Drive Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives.
• Develop APQP documentation (assembly procedures, test plans, BOMs, process flows, and PFMEAs).
• Estimate production times, staffing needs, and cost implications for decision-making.

Project Management & Equipment Integration

• Lead projects for new equipment installation, automation integration, and process enhancements.
• Conduct feasibility studies and present recommendations on cost-effectiveness and technical viability.
• Ensure compliance with Caterpillar quality, safety, and ergonomic standards.
• Oversee procurement, installation, and commissioning of machine tools, automation systems, and controls.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software teams to ensure seamless system integration.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor s degree in electrical engineering or a related field.
• 12-15 years of experience in controls engineering, PLC programming, and automation.
• Expertise in PLC programming languages (Ladder Logic, Structured Text).
• Experience in Special Purpose Machines & CNC machine logic development and integration.
• Fanuc Robot Programming & Teaching, Tool validation, Robot path preparation etc.
• Strong understanding of electrical and control systems, automation, and robotics.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, engineering drawings, and control diagrams.
• Analyze risk assessments of new designs using DFMEA, DFM, and DFx principles.
• Gathers operation, test data and evaluates results and initiates necessary corrective measures as part of Continuous Improvement.
• Proficiency in manufacturing execution systems (MES) and SAP ERP.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Willingness to travel for off-site machine pre-acceptance, prove-outs and troubleshooting.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master s degree (MS) in Electrical Engineering or Robotics or related field.
• Experience in robotics, material handling, and complex automation systems.
• Expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, and Industry 4.0.
• Knowledge of engine assembly, testing, and paint processes.
• Hands-on experience in Discrete Event Simulation (DES) and digital manufacturing.
• Prior experience in NPI launches and high-complexity manufacturing environments.

Posting Dates:

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO).

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