Senior Industrial Designer - Heavy Equipment
Caterpillar, 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. Company : 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. 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. What You Will Do
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 how 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. Considerations For Top Candidates
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. 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.
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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. Company : 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. 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. What You Will Do
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 how 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. Considerations For Top Candidates
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. 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.
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