Design Engineer - Drivetrain & Powertrain Systems

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.
Hear about the Caterpillar Experience for yourself
Design the Future of Heavy Equipment Powertrain Technology
Are you an experienced Mechanical Engineer, Powertrain Engineer, Drivetrain Engineer, Product Development Engineer, or Systems Engineer looking to work on large-scale machines that impact industries around the world?
The Drivetrain Platform Team within Caterpillar's Integrated Drivetrain Energy Solutions Division (IDES) is seeking a highly motivated Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to lead the design and development of advanced transmissions, axles, driveline systems, and powertrain components from concept through production.
This opportunity is ideal for engineers with experience in automotive, aerospace, industrial equipment, robotics, automation, off-highway vehicles, agricultural equipment, defense systems, or other complex mechanical systems operating under demanding conditions. In this role, you'll take ownership of critical drivetrain systems, collaborate with global engineering teams, and help shape the next generation of high-performance machinery.
What You Will Do
Design, develop, validate, and release transmissions, axles, driveline systems, and mechanical powertrain components
Lead engineering decisions throughout the entire product development lifecycle, from concept through production
Partner with controls, software, systems, manufacturing, and supplier teams to deliver integrated solutions
Develop and execute product validation plans and analyze performance test data
Participate in DFMEA, PFMEA, root cause analysis, and structured problem-solving activities
Support manufacturing implementation and resolve design, quality, and production challenges
Apply engineering analysis methods to evaluate component durability, performance, reliability, and manufacturability
Communicate technical recommendations and project progress to global stakeholders
Degree Requirement
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
Top candidates will have
5+ years of experience designing and developing mechanical systems
Experience working on systems operating under significant mechanical loads
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to communicate technical concepts effectively across cross-functional teams
Powertrain, drivetrain, transmission, gearbox, axle, or propulsion systems
Gears, bearings, shafts, rotating equipment, and mechanical power transmission
Structural, load-bearing, or heavy-duty mechanical systems
Automotive, aerospace, defense, industrial equipment, off-highway, agricultural, or robotics applications
Product development and engineering processes from concept through production
Root cause analysis and corrective action implementation
Collaboration with manufacturing, suppliers, and global engineering teams
CAD-based design and engineering analysis tools
Key Skills
Mechanical Design Engineering
Product Development
Powertrain Systems
Drivetrain Engineering
Design Validation
System Integration
Engineering Analysis
DFMEA/PFMEA
Root Cause Analysis
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Technical Leadership
Problem Solving
Why Join Us?
Work on world-class machines that operate in some of the toughest environments on earth
Own critical components and systems with direct production impact
Collaborate with global engineering experts and industry leaders
Influence future drivetrain and powertrain technologies
See your ideas evolve from concept to production
Additional Information
This position will close at 11:59 p.m. on 10/26/2026.
This position will be located onsite 5 days a week in East Peoria, IL (Building KK).
Relocation assistance (domestic) is available for this position.
Sponsorship is NOT available.