Associate Engineer

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:

As a Cost Engineer you will be responsible for developing, analysing and delivering globally impactful cost improvement solutions for all New Product Introduction (NPI) and current products. You will collaborate with the design engineering, procurement professionals and partners from other divisions to ensure seamless integration of cost improvement initiatives.

In this role, you will work closely with team members to ensure seamless project delivery within required timelines, maintaining the highest quality standards and completely adhering to all compliance requirements.

Primary Roles / Responsibilities include, but not limited to:

Development:

Develop detailed cost analyses across various commodities and manufacturing processes. Document cost data to support Business Unit objectives. Analyses include:

• Should Cost modeling
• Nesting and sourcing evaluation
• Design for Manufacturability (DFM)
• Make vs. Buy studies

Support:

Serve as a key contributor in delivering measurable outcomes both independently and collaboratively ensuring high-quality, data-driven cost recommendations.

Degree Requirement:

Bachelor’s / master’s degree in engineering with over 3-5 years of progressive experience in Engineering or Purchasing roles within the heavy equipment or automotive industry is ideal.

Preferred Qualifications:

• CREO Modelling experience is mandatory
• Good understanding of engineering prints and operational drawings
• Application knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Understanding of the manufacturing process of multiple commodities i.e., Fabrication, Castings, Forgings and Non-Metallics etc.
• Working Experience in Costing tools (aPriori, TcPCM)
• Exposure to NPI, APQP, and PPAP processes (e.g., Control Plans, FMEA, Process Flow)
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated ability in use of Microsoft Office software
• Strong analytical skills with high initiative to pursue newer analytical solutions.

Skill Descriptors:

Effective Communications: Ability to share ideas clearly and concisely, fostering collaboration with internal and cross-functional teams.

Level - Working Knowledge:

• Listens to feedback without defensiveness and applies it to improve communication effectiveness.
• Builds trust and fosters alignment across global teams through clear and respectful communication.
• Communicate project status, risks, and opportunities with clarity and confidence.
• Delivers clear, engaging presentations tailored to different organizational levels.
• Collaborates closely with team members, promoting open dialogue and engagement.

Technical Excellence: Knowledge of a given technology and various application methods; ability to develop and provide solutions to significant technical challenges.

Level – Working Knowledge:

• Utilizes engineering drawings and 3D CAD models to extract technical data for cost analysis.
• Applies basic knowledge of the manufacturing process and materials.
• Implements DFM methodologies to simplify designs and reduce costs for selected manufacturing processes.

• Collaborate with subject matter experts to resolve technical issues effectively.
• Demonstrates accountability through timely deliverables and strict adherence to compliance standards.

Analytical Thinking: Understands and applies basic analysis techniques to identify cost drivers and propose solutions.

Level – Working Knowledge:

• Strong analytical mindset with experience in data modeling, visualization, and reporting using Power BI.
• Uses structured methods to analyze cost drivers and find optimization opportunities.
• Performs cost breakdowns and variance checks to identify inefficiencies.
• Prepares simple data-driven scenarios to support make-or-buy decisions and sourcing strategies.
• Adapts effectively to changing priorities while maintaining productivity.
• Proactively identifies opportunities, acts independently, and drives tasks to successful completion.

Customer/Market Focus: Understands market trends and responds to customer needs to add value.

Level - Working Knowledge:

• Delivers cost insights that support profitability and other targets.
• Flags recurring issues that may impact customer satisfaction.
• Uses consistent methods to stay responsive to customer requirements.
• Compares costs with market benchmarks to identify gaps and improvement opportunities.
• Handles diverse tasks with a long-term vision that supports organizational goals.

Posting Dates:

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

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