Mechanical Engineer - OPT/ STEM OPT

Job Summary

Caterpillar is looking for a Mechanical Engineer 3 to support the Global Hydraulics team. The role focuses on hydraulic component development, cost analysis, project management, supplier collaboration, and new product introduction (NPI). Key Responsibilities

• Lead cost analysis and value-creation projects for global hydraulic components.
• Support new product introduction (NPI) for hydraulic cylinders and purchased components.
• Work with engineering, suppliers, procurement, manufacturing, and product teams.
• Analyze large datasets and identify cost, performance, and improvement opportunities .
• Review engineering drawings, specifications, designs, and technical requirements.
• Support product design reviews, validation, and technical analysis.
• Prepare reports and presentations for leadership and stakeholders.
• Manage project schedules, deliverables, and team meetings.

Required Education & Experience

• 5+ years of industry experience.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering preferred.
• Master's degree with approximately 3 years of experience is acceptable.
• Mechanical, Design Engineer, or Project Team Lead experience is relevant.
• Internship experience does not count toward required experience.

Top Required Skills

• Strong project management and Microsoft Office skills, especially Excel, Power BI, Teams, and SharePoint.
• Ability to analyze large datasets , identify trends, and present key findings.
• Understanding of the product development lifecycle , including requirements, development, testing, validation, and value engineering.

Additional Technical Skills

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, schematics, and technical reports .
• CREO/modeling experience is preferred.
• Knowledge of hydraulic components and systems is preferred.
• Experience with product design, manufacturing, sourcing, or supplier engineering is a plus.

Soft Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication.
• Analytical and detail-oriented approach.
• Strong problem-solving and collaboration skills.
• Ability to lead meetings and work independently.
• Self-motivated, organized, and able to manage multiple deliverables.

Ideal Candidate

A Mechanical/Design Engineer or Project Engineer with 5+ years of experience, strong Excel/Power BI/data-analysis and project-management skills , and preferably hands-on knowledge of hydraulic systems, component design, supplier engineering, or NPI .