Principal NPI Mechanical Engineer

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.Solar Turbines is looking for a motivated team member to work on New Product Introduction (NPI) using the agile development process. The Principal NPI Mechanical Engineer is responsible for driving the development and delivery of new turbomachinery products from concept through beneficial use. This role leads mechanical design efforts, evaluates and refines design solutions, and ensures they are safe, high-quality, and cost-effective. Success in this position requires strong analytical skills, hands-on engineering expertise, and close collaboration with cross-functional teams throughout the product lifecycle.Key ResponsibilitiesPartner with Product Owners, Scrum Masters, and cross-functional stakeholders to translate business needs into actionable design requirements and engineering solutionsDevelop innovative design concepts, perform trade studies, and execute detailed mechanical design (3D modeling and drawings) to deliver optimized solutionsPerform engineering analyses (structural, torsional, lifting, and CFD) to validate designs and ensure performance, reliability, and cost-effectivenessCreate and maintain BOMs and product documentation to support accurate manufacturing and product traceabilityCollaborate with multidisciplinary teams and suppliers to ensure manufacturability, quality, and successful procurement, fabrication, and first-article buildsInvestigate field issues, conduct root cause analysis, and drive continuous improvement through corrective actions, design reviews, and technical presentationsOptimize subsequent designs for manufacturability, durability, quality, and costWhat You Need To Have:Educational Background:Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related fieldTechnical Excellence:10+ years of engineering experienceStrong foundation in structural mechanics and mechanical design principlesProficiency with CAD tools (e.g., Creo) and PLM systems (e.g., Windchill)Experience with engineering analysis tools (FEA and/or CFD)Knowledge of engineering drawing standards and GD&TFamiliarity with Agile development processesExperience performing stress, torsional, or lifting analysesTop Candidates Will Have:Educational Background:Master’s in Mechanical Engineering or related fieldTechnical Excellence:Experience with gas turbine systems and their operationAdvanced proficiency with analysis tools (e.g., ANSYS, RISA, STAR-CCM+)Experience with Ansys SpaceClaim and configurable/linked data structuresKnowledge of the Agile/Scrum -ProcessStipend Relocation:Partial relocation assistance may be offered.This position requires a 5-days in office schedule.About CaterpillarCaterpillar 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:$120,600.00 - $180,900.00Compensation 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 benefitsLife InsuranceParental leaveAdoption benefitsTuition Reimbursement* These benefits also apply to part-time employeesThis position requires working onsite five days a week.Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.Posting Dates:Any 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.Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.SummaryLocation: San Diego, CaliforniaType: Full time