Manufacturing Engineer

Manufacturing Engineer

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.

We are seeking a highly skilled Manufacturing Engineer to join our manufacturing team in Lafayette, Indiana. This role is responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing manufacturing processes to drive safety, quality, and operational efficiency. The ideal candidate will partner cross-functionally with production, quality, and design engineering teams to support continuous improvement and new product introduction initiatives. You will play a critical role in improving throughput, reducing waste, and ensuring compliance with manufacturing standards.

This position requires strong problem-solving skills, engineering expertise, and a passion for innovation in a production environment. If you thrive in fast-paced manufacturing settings and are motivated to drive measurable impact, we encourage you to apply.

Job Summary:

The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for leading process development, continuous improvement, and production support initiatives within a manufacturing facility. This role focuses on improving efficiency, quality, and cost performance through technical expertise, data-driven problem solving, and collaboration across engineering and operations teams. You will design and optimize manufacturing systems, implement new technologies, and ensure processes meet safety and regulatory standards.

What You Will Do:

• Design, develop, and implement manufacturing processes, equipment, and tooling
• Analyze production data to identify process improvements and cost reduction opportunities
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean, Six Sigma, and root cause methodologies
• Collaborate with design engineering to support Design for Manufacturability (DFM) initiatives
• Optimize plant layout, workflow, and equipment utilization to improve throughput and efficiency
• Support new product introduction (NPI) and process validation activities
• Troubleshoot and resolve production issues impacting quality, safety, or delivery
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, environmental standards, and quality systems
• Develop and maintain process documentation, SOPs, and work instructions
• Partner with suppliers and vendors on tooling, equipment, and automation solutions

Education Requirement:

Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field

Skills You Must Have:

• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes (machining, assembly, fabrication, automation)
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies
• Data analysis and problem-solving skills using root cause techniques
• Familiarity with CAD tools and manufacturing systems
• Understanding of quality systems and regulatory compliance
• Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment

Top Candidates Will Also Have:

• Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification
• Experience with automation, robotics, or Industry 4.0 technologies
• Knowledge of ERP/MES systems
• Exposure to cost modeling and capital project justification

What You Will Get:

• A commitment to inclusion. Our common values and focus on inclusion and respect drive the decisions made by our company, teams, and people. Here, you can apply your unique life and job experiences, and work in a team environment where your ideas are heard, your contributions are celebrated, and your whole-self matters.
• You earn more than just a salary because we value your performance. We offer a total rewards package that provides benefits on day one (medical, dental, vision, RX, and 401K) along with the potential of an annual bonus.
• Additional benefits include paid…