Senior Industrial Designer - Heavy Equipment
Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation, Clayton, North Carolina, United States, 27520
Overview
Career Area:
Marketing 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. Cat Digital is the digital and technology arm of Caterpillar Inc., leveraging the latest technologies to build industry leading digital solutions for our customers and dealers. With over 1.5 million connected assets worldwide, our teams use data, technology, advanced analytics, telematics, and AI capabilities to help our customers build a better, more sustainable world. What You Will Do
Job Summary:
Senior Industrial Designer responsible for executing production-ready design solutions for global Caterpillar heavy equipment platforms. Focused on delivering high-quality design that balances brand, manufacturability, engineering integration, durability, and cost targets. Acts as a key contributor throughout full product development lifecycle from early concept through production launch. Works closely with engineering, program management, manufacturing, and business partners to deliver successful product outcomes. Applies and reinforces Caterpillar Visual Brand Language across equipment portfolios. Responsibilities
Design Execution & Product Development Lead industrial design development for heavy equipment exterior and operator environment components
Create production-feasible design solutions that align with engineering, packaging, and performance constraints
Develop and communicate design intent through sketching, CAD, renderings, and prototype reviews
Translate conceptual design into production-ready Class-A or production surface solutions
Maintain design integrity throughout development and manufacturing release
Execute detailed design solutions including panel and enclosure development, cab interior components, operator interfaces, product architecture, and surface detailing
Heavy Equipment Integration & Durability Focus Design for structural durability, harsh environments, operator safety, and regulatory compliance
Ensure serviceability and maintenance accessibility
Collaborate with engineering teams to integrate mechanical packaging and system requirements
Participate in packaging reviews, layout studies, and interference resolution
Support prototype validation, field testing feedback, and iterative refinement
Ensure designs meet Caterpillar quality, durability, and performance expectations
Manufacturing & Materials Application Apply strong knowledge of sheet metal fabrication, structural weldments, cast and forged components, plastics, and multi-material assemblies
Design components using DFMA principles with focus on cost optimization and assembly efficiency
Collaborate with suppliers and manufacturing teams during development and launch phases
Understand coatings, paint processes, and finishing requirements
Visual Brand Language Execution Execute Caterpillar Visual Brand Language consistently across product platforms
Maintain alignment with brand standards while adapting to platform-specific constraints
Support development of design standards, component strategies, and product family consistency
Cross-Functional Collaboration Work closely with internal business partners, engineering teams, and program leadership
Present design concepts, trade-offs, and solutions clearly to stakeholders
Gather customer and operator feedback and integrate insights into design solutions
Support design reviews, milestone gates, and product release documentation
Influence design direction through strong communication and technical credibility
Project & Time Management Manage multiple design projects simultaneously across global development programs
Deliver high-quality work within defined timelines and program milestones
Provide proactive communication regarding risks, challenges, and status updates
Support program planning and scheduling from design perspective
Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement Identify usability, packaging, or integration challenges early in development
Provide practical, manufacturable design solutions
Balance brand expression, product function, and engineering realities
Contribute to improvement of design workflows and best practices
Support knowledge sharing across global design teams
What You Will Have
Customer Focus:
Knowledge of the values and practices that align customer needs and satisfaction as primary considerations in all business decisions and ability to leverage that information in creating customized customer solutions. Global Perspective:
Knowledge of issues, opportunities, and challenges for conducting business in the international marketplace; ability to apply global perspectives appropriately in a wide range of situations. Creativity:
Knowledge of the approaches, tools, and techniques for promoting creative, original thinking and ability to apply it to a variety of business situations. Strategic Thinking:
Knowledge of the importance of "big picture" thinking and planning; ability to apply organizational acumen and competitiveness to identify and maintain focus on key success factors for the organization. Product Design and Development:
Knowledge of product features; ability to design, build, and develop a new product, technology, or service from concept through to production. Qualifications & Considerations
Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Industrial Design or related field
Industrial design experience
Proven experience executing designs through production release
Experience working on complex mechanical or industrial products
Experience working in cross-functional product development teams
Exceptional sketching and visual communication abilities
Experience designing heavy equipment, automotive, agricultural, or powersports products
Experience working within defined brand language systems
Experience supporting global product platforms
Experience mentoring junior designers
Familiarity with operator-focused ergonomic design
Experience working directly with manufacturing facilities or suppliers
Understanding of CMF development and strategy • Familiarity with human factors or usability testing
Strong understanding of proportion, form development, and surface quality
Ability to quickly generate and iterate design concepts
Strong presentation and design storytelling skills
Proficiency in Autodesk Alias and/or PTC Creo
Experience developing production-ready surfaces and CAD models
Ability to communicate design intent through CAD and visualization tools
Experience with rendering and visualization software preferred
Strong knowledge of sheet metal design, welded assemblies, plastic part design, and structural components
Understanding of tolerance stack-up, fit and finish development, serviceability, and durability requirements
Familiarity with DFMA best practices
Strong time management and organizational skills
Excellent cross-functional collaboration abilities
Ability to manage ambiguity and complex design challenges
Strong verbal and written communication skills • Self-directed with strong accountability and ownership mindset
What You Will Get
Working with a Fortune 100 leader, you can build your career on a global scale and take advantage of development opportunities with emerging technologies. We’ve created an inclusive environment for you to explore your passions, make an impact and do the work that really matters. Join Us. About Caterpillar
Caterpillar 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 to 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. This Job Description is intended as a general guide to the job duties for this position and is intended for the purpose of establishing the specific salary grade. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as an exhaustive summary of all responsibilities, duties and effort required of employees assigned to this job. At the discretion of management, this description may be changed at any time to address the evolving needs of the organization. It is expressly not intended to be a comprehensive list of “essential job functions” as that term is defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Compensation & Benefits
Summary Pay Range:
$112,710.00 - $169,060.00 Compensation 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 benefits Life Insurance Parental leave Adoption benefits Tuition Reimbursement * These benefits also apply to part-time employees This position requires working onsite five days a week. Relocation is available for this position. Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position. This employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as, H, L, TN, F, J, E, O. As a global company, Caterpillar offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S which can be found through our employment website at www.caterpillar.com/careers. Posting Dates
February 5, 2026 - February 13, 2026 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 .
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Career Area:
Marketing 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. Cat Digital is the digital and technology arm of Caterpillar Inc., leveraging the latest technologies to build industry leading digital solutions for our customers and dealers. With over 1.5 million connected assets worldwide, our teams use data, technology, advanced analytics, telematics, and AI capabilities to help our customers build a better, more sustainable world. What You Will Do
Job Summary:
Senior Industrial Designer responsible for executing production-ready design solutions for global Caterpillar heavy equipment platforms. Focused on delivering high-quality design that balances brand, manufacturability, engineering integration, durability, and cost targets. Acts as a key contributor throughout full product development lifecycle from early concept through production launch. Works closely with engineering, program management, manufacturing, and business partners to deliver successful product outcomes. Applies and reinforces Caterpillar Visual Brand Language across equipment portfolios. Responsibilities
Design Execution & Product Development Lead industrial design development for heavy equipment exterior and operator environment components
Create production-feasible design solutions that align with engineering, packaging, and performance constraints
Develop and communicate design intent through sketching, CAD, renderings, and prototype reviews
Translate conceptual design into production-ready Class-A or production surface solutions
Maintain design integrity throughout development and manufacturing release
Execute detailed design solutions including panel and enclosure development, cab interior components, operator interfaces, product architecture, and surface detailing
Heavy Equipment Integration & Durability Focus Design for structural durability, harsh environments, operator safety, and regulatory compliance
Ensure serviceability and maintenance accessibility
Collaborate with engineering teams to integrate mechanical packaging and system requirements
Participate in packaging reviews, layout studies, and interference resolution
Support prototype validation, field testing feedback, and iterative refinement
Ensure designs meet Caterpillar quality, durability, and performance expectations
Manufacturing & Materials Application Apply strong knowledge of sheet metal fabrication, structural weldments, cast and forged components, plastics, and multi-material assemblies
Design components using DFMA principles with focus on cost optimization and assembly efficiency
Collaborate with suppliers and manufacturing teams during development and launch phases
Understand coatings, paint processes, and finishing requirements
Visual Brand Language Execution Execute Caterpillar Visual Brand Language consistently across product platforms
Maintain alignment with brand standards while adapting to platform-specific constraints
Support development of design standards, component strategies, and product family consistency
Cross-Functional Collaboration Work closely with internal business partners, engineering teams, and program leadership
Present design concepts, trade-offs, and solutions clearly to stakeholders
Gather customer and operator feedback and integrate insights into design solutions
Support design reviews, milestone gates, and product release documentation
Influence design direction through strong communication and technical credibility
Project & Time Management Manage multiple design projects simultaneously across global development programs
Deliver high-quality work within defined timelines and program milestones
Provide proactive communication regarding risks, challenges, and status updates
Support program planning and scheduling from design perspective
Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement Identify usability, packaging, or integration challenges early in development
Provide practical, manufacturable design solutions
Balance brand expression, product function, and engineering realities
Contribute to improvement of design workflows and best practices
Support knowledge sharing across global design teams
What You Will Have
Customer Focus:
Knowledge of the values and practices that align customer needs and satisfaction as primary considerations in all business decisions and ability to leverage that information in creating customized customer solutions. Global Perspective:
Knowledge of issues, opportunities, and challenges for conducting business in the international marketplace; ability to apply global perspectives appropriately in a wide range of situations. Creativity:
Knowledge of the approaches, tools, and techniques for promoting creative, original thinking and ability to apply it to a variety of business situations. Strategic Thinking:
Knowledge of the importance of "big picture" thinking and planning; ability to apply organizational acumen and competitiveness to identify and maintain focus on key success factors for the organization. Product Design and Development:
Knowledge of product features; ability to design, build, and develop a new product, technology, or service from concept through to production. Qualifications & Considerations
Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Industrial Design or related field
Industrial design experience
Proven experience executing designs through production release
Experience working on complex mechanical or industrial products
Experience working in cross-functional product development teams
Exceptional sketching and visual communication abilities
Experience designing heavy equipment, automotive, agricultural, or powersports products
Experience working within defined brand language systems
Experience supporting global product platforms
Experience mentoring junior designers
Familiarity with operator-focused ergonomic design
Experience working directly with manufacturing facilities or suppliers
Understanding of CMF development and strategy • Familiarity with human factors or usability testing
Strong understanding of proportion, form development, and surface quality
Ability to quickly generate and iterate design concepts
Strong presentation and design storytelling skills
Proficiency in Autodesk Alias and/or PTC Creo
Experience developing production-ready surfaces and CAD models
Ability to communicate design intent through CAD and visualization tools
Experience with rendering and visualization software preferred
Strong knowledge of sheet metal design, welded assemblies, plastic part design, and structural components
Understanding of tolerance stack-up, fit and finish development, serviceability, and durability requirements
Familiarity with DFMA best practices
Strong time management and organizational skills
Excellent cross-functional collaboration abilities
Ability to manage ambiguity and complex design challenges
Strong verbal and written communication skills • Self-directed with strong accountability and ownership mindset
What You Will Get
Working with a Fortune 100 leader, you can build your career on a global scale and take advantage of development opportunities with emerging technologies. We’ve created an inclusive environment for you to explore your passions, make an impact and do the work that really matters. Join Us. About Caterpillar
Caterpillar 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 to 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. This Job Description is intended as a general guide to the job duties for this position and is intended for the purpose of establishing the specific salary grade. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as an exhaustive summary of all responsibilities, duties and effort required of employees assigned to this job. At the discretion of management, this description may be changed at any time to address the evolving needs of the organization. It is expressly not intended to be a comprehensive list of “essential job functions” as that term is defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Compensation & Benefits
Summary Pay Range:
$112,710.00 - $169,060.00 Compensation 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 benefits Life Insurance Parental leave Adoption benefits Tuition Reimbursement * These benefits also apply to part-time employees This position requires working onsite five days a week. Relocation is available for this position. Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position. This employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as, H, L, TN, F, J, E, O. As a global company, Caterpillar offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S which can be found through our employment website at www.caterpillar.com/careers. Posting Dates
February 5, 2026 - February 13, 2026 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 .
#J-18808-Ljbffr