Associate Design Engineer

About the role

Career Area: Engineering

About the role

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 Summary

Caterpillar’s Earthmoving Division has an opening for an Associate Design Engineer on the Rapid City, SD Engineering Design Center team. In this role, you will work closely with a product group and engineering project lead to assist in the design and development of new and existing components, assemblies, or systems for Caterpillar equipment.

This position performs various design activities, including developing design concepts using 3D modeling software; performing basic to intermediate analyses, ranging from finite element analysis to bolted joint analysis; identifying and assisting in the resolution of design problems; working closely with other Caterpillar teams and suppliers; and managing the development and completion of any required drawings to support the manufacture of parts related to your project designs.

What You’ll Do (Job Duties)

• Create 3D models of new designs utilizing PTC Creo
• Develop and document functional requirements and translate them into detail design documents
• Oversee the efforts of drafting teams to create any manufacturing drawings related to your designs
• Perform needed analysis activities to aid in development and refinement of designs.
• Communicate technical information to team members, other Caterpillar engineering teams, and suppliers.

What You Have (Core Skills)

• Decision Making and Critical Thinking: Knowledge of the decision-making process and associated tools and techniques; ability to accurately analyze situations and reach productive decisions based on informed judgment.
• Analytical Thinking: Knowledge of techniques and tools that promote effective analysis; ability to determine the root cause of organizational problems and create alternative solutions that resolve these problems.
• Technical Excellence: Knowledge of a given technology and various application methods; ability to develop and provide solutions to significant technical challenges.
• Effective Communications: Understanding of effective communication concepts, tools and techniques; ability to effectively transmit, receive, and accurately interpret ideas, information, and needs through the application of appropriate communication behaviors.
• 3D Software: Knowledge of the types, features and tools of 3D software; ability to use, implement, test and upgrade the software package in the process of 3D models production.

Top Candidates Will Also Have

• Proficiency in application of PTC Creo or other parametric 3D modeling and/or simulation tools.
• Experience with manufacturing and/or fabrication.
• Experience maintaining or operating heavy equipment.

Additional Details

• Work location: Rapid City, SD – Caterpillar Engineering Design Center.
• Domestic relocation assistance IS NOT available for this role.
• Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this role.
• This position requires 5 days per week in the office (M-F).

Summary Pay Range

$81,370.00 - $122,060.00

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

• Posting Dates: October 29, 2026 - November 12, 2026
• Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
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