Senior Associate Engineer- CI GET Performance & Wear

Career Area:

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.

Role definition:

Designs, develops and virtually validates performance of Ground Engaging Tool (GET) systems for Construction industry equipment like hydraulic excavator, wheel loader, motor grader, dozers. Responsible for delivering innovative, durable, and cost-effective solutions that enhance machine productivity, wear life, reliability, and customer value.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop GET system components including Tooth Points, Adapters, Wear Caps, Shrouds, Side Bar Protectors, Heel Shrouds, Edge cutting, Ripper shanks and related wear protection products.
• Create and maintain 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, specifications, and product documentation.
• Develop product solutions based on customer applications, machine performance requirements, and field feedback.
• Utilize FEA, Discrete Element Modeling (DEM), wear simulations, and engineering calculations to evaluate and optimize designs.
• Develop load cases, breakout force calculations, and component performance requirements through application understanding.
• Drive innovation by challenging conventional designs and identifying opportunities to improve product performance and reduce cost.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in product design and development.
• Exposure to wear components, mining & construction equipment, or ground engaging tools preferred.

Desired Technical Competencies

• Knowledge of wear mechanisms, tribology, structural analysis, and durability principles.
• Proficiency in Creo, Teamcenter, GD&T, and engineering drawing standards.
• Experience with FEA, DEM, wear simulations, and performance modeling.
• Ability to understand machine applications and develop realistic load cases and design requirements.
• Innovative approach with the ability to challenge the status quo and develop customer-focused solutions.

 Skill Descriptors:

Analytical Thinking & Problem Solving

• Applies engineering analysis and simulation techniques to identify root causes of product performance, durability, and reliability issues.
• Evaluates multiple design alternatives using data-driven approaches and simulation results.
• Interprets complex engineering data and translates findings into actionable design improvements.
• Utilizes structured problem-solving methodologies to optimize product performance and reduce development risks.
• Leverages AI-assisted engineering tools and advanced analytics to improve simulation efficiency and decision-making.

Technical Excellence & Innovation

• Demonstrates expertise in structural, thermal, dynamic, and fatigue analysis methodologies.
• Develops innovative simulation approaches to improve product performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Applies knowledge of material behavior, mechanics, and failure modes to engineering challenges.
• Continuously enhances technical competency through emerging simulation technologies and best practices.
• Supports design innovation through virtual validation and advanced engineering analyses.

Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) & Simulation

• Proficient in CAE tools such as ANSYS, Abaqus, HyperMesh, LS-DYNA, Nastran, or equivalent simulation platforms.
• Develops finite element models for linear, nonlinear, static, dynamic, thermal, and fatigue analyses.
• Performs model setup, meshing, boundary condition definition, result interpretation, and validation activities.
• Conducts correlation studies between simulation and physical test results to improve model accuracy.
• Supports virtual product validation and optimization throughout the product development lifecycle.

Product Validation & Performance Engineering

• Performs simulation-driven evaluations to verify product durability, structural integrity, and performance requirements.
• Collaborates with design, manufacturing, and testing teams to validate engineering solutions.
• Identifies performance gaps and recommends design modifications to meet customer and business objectives.
• Supports new product development through virtual testing and risk assessment methodologies.
• Contributes to design reviews by providing simulation insights and engineering recommendations.

Effective Communication & Collaboration

• Communicates complex simulation results effectively to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Creates clear engineering reports, presentations, and technical documentation.
• Collaborates with cross-functional global teams to achieve project objectives.
• Participates in design reviews and provides data-backed engineering recommendations.
• Supports knowledge sharing and mentoring within the engineering organization.

Accuracy & Attention to Detail

• Ensures accuracy in simulation models, assumptions, inputs, and result interpretations.
• Conducts thorough validation and verification checks to maintain analytical integrity.
• Follows established engineering standards, procedures, and quality requirements.
• Maintains detailed documentation of simulation methodologies and findings.
• Identifies potential risks and limitations associated with simulation results and recommends mitigation strategies.

Posting Dates:

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply

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