Analyst/Developer – Engine Structures & Dynamics Testing

Role: Analyst/Developer - Engine Structures & Dynamics Testing

Job Location: Mossville, IL

Job Type: Contract

Must-Have Skills:

• Bachelor's/Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

• 2-4 years of engineering/testing experience; relevant internships may be considered

• Mechanical testing and validation

• Blueprints, engineering drawings, and schematics

• CAD

• Data acquisition systems - eDAQ, LMS, cDAQ

• Vibration and structural dynamics analysis

• Noise, Vibration & Harshness (NVH) testing

• Modal testing

• Stress/strain analysis

• Test instrumentation and gaging

• Export Control clearance

Position Overview:

We are seeking an Analyst/Developer with a strong Mechanical Engineering background to support engine structures and dynamics validation activities. The selected candidate will develop, conduct, analyze, and manage validation tests using Caterpillar standards and technologies.

This role focuses on validating engine components and systems, investigating structural and vibration-related issues, and providing technical solutions to improve product quality, reliability, and performance.

Required Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering is required; Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering is also acceptable.

• 2-4 years of engineering/testing experience required. Relevant internship experience may be considered.

• Export Control clearance is required.

Required Technical Skills:

• Basic understanding of internal combustion engines, machinery, and mechanical systems.

• Ability to create sketches, engineering drawings, and perform engineering calculations.

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, and computer-generated reports.

• Experience with CAD and other engineering software applications.

• Experience using data acquisition systems such as eDAQ, LMS, and cDAQ.

• Experience analyzing linear vibration, stress/strain, ME-SCOPE, and LMS data.

• Experience performing modal testing.

• Experience setting up test instrumentation and gaging.

• Ability to coordinate the design and procurement of prototype hardware.

• Understanding of structural dynamics and vibration.

• Experience with NVH testing is highly preferred.

• Structural simulation experience is a plus.

Key Responsibilities:

• Validate core engine components and systems, including rotating components, PRL, valvetrain, heads, blocks, and housings.

• Support NPI, NTI, CPI, NSI, and Assurance of Supplier programs.

• Develop and execute test plans for on-engine and bench testing.

• Conduct testing in engine laboratories, proving grounds, third-party engine/shaker labs, and field locations.

• Utilize data acquisition systems and analysis tools to evaluate vibration, stress/strain, and modal performance.

• Evaluate complex structural failure modes and provide technical recommendations for product solutions.

• Coordinate the design and procurement of prototype hardware.

• Set up test instrumentation and gaging as required.

• Analyze test data and prepare technical reports documenting findings and recommendations.

• Communicate test results and conclusions to engineering teams and project stakeholders.

• Work closely with design and simulation teams on project planning, validation, and problem resolution.

• Support multiple engine programs and effectively manage competing priorities.

Required Soft Skills:

• Strong initiative and ability to work independently.

• Strong technical, verbal, and written communication skills.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

• Detail-oriented and organized.

• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.

• Ability to understand customer requirements and product applications.

• Ability to build strong working relationships across engineering teams.

• Creative and solution-oriented approach to technical challenges.

Preferred Soft Skills:

• Ability to identify opportunities to improve validation efficiency.

• Ability to champion new engineering initiatives.

• Ability to effectively manage multiple engine programs simultaneously.

• Strong cross-functional collaboration skills.

Team & Work Environment:

• Join a team consisting of approximately 10 Test Engineers and 4 Technicians.

• Work closely with design, simulation, and cross-functional engineering teams.

• Responsibilities include project planning, test execution, data analysis, technical reporting, and communication of results.

• Opportunity to work on innovative products with industry-leading engineers.

• Gain exposure to specialized structural dynamics and vibration testing within a global organization.

• Directly contribute to the quality, reliability, and performance of Caterpillar products.