Manufacturing Project Engineer

Career AreaManufacturingJob DescriptionYour 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.Job SummaryThe Manufacturing Project Engineer plays a key role in driving operational excellence by leading high‑impact projects that improve safety, quality, efficiency, and production stability. This role partners closely with cross‑functional teams to deliver end‑to‑end solutions, ensuring successful execution from concept through implementation.In this position, you will support development of modern manufacturing capabilities aligned with Enterprise Capability Owners, with a strong focus on production stability and optimizing manufacturing performance. You will lead initiatives related to new product introductions, process improvements, and equipment integration, while identifying opportunities to enhance operational efficiency across the plant.This role also brings a strong connection to research and development, supporting the transition of innovative ideas into scalable, production‑ready solutions. By leveraging technical expertise, data‑driven insights, and collaboration across engineering and operations teams, you will help bridge development and manufacturing to deliver reliable, high‑quality outcomes in a dynamic environment.What You Will DoResearch, develop, and deploy physical automation technologies to improve manufacturing process capability, efficiency, quality, and costSupport projects across robotics, automation systems, asset connectivity, machine learning, and vision‑based manufacturing applicationsEvaluate existing manufacturing processes and equipment to identify automation opportunities, gaps, and improvement potentialDesign, develop, test, and validate automation concepts, prototypes, and pilot systems prior to production deploymentSupport installation, commissioning, ramp‑up, and stabilization of automation equipment in manufacturing and supplier environmentsApply structured problem‑solving techniques to identify root causes and develop modern manufacturing capabilities addressing Safety, Quality, Velocity, and CostCommunicate technical findings, recommendations, and results to Enterprise Capability Owners (ECOs), operations, leadership, suppliers, and internal customersDeploy technical strategies, provide technical guidance and mentoring to pilot locations for modern manufacturing solutionsEducation RequirementBachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Robotics Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline or demonstrate equivalent knowledge through professional expertise.What Skills You Will HaveDecision Making & Critical Thinking:Applies structured decision‑making techniquesIdentifies, organizes, and evaluates relevant data and alternativesAssesses risks and tradeoffs impacting manufacturing performanceEngineering – MFGAssists with manufacturing problem resolution and supports drafting engineering specifications and standard practices.Works with routine manufacturing engineering tools, equipment, and processes.Performs basic installation, maintenance, and repair activities within a defined engineering function.Follows established engineering standards, policies, and procedures.Identifies and escalates unusual manufacturing or engineering issues to senior staff.Project ManagementUses standard project management tools to estimate cost, timelines, and resource needs.Plans, organizes, and monitors manufacturing projects to meet scope, schedule, and cost objectives.Identifies project risks and develops mitigation and contingency plans.Leads project reviews with cross‑functional teams and stakeholders.Maintains clear communication and reporting throughout the project lifecycle.Additional InformationLocation: Sanford, NC – 5 Days a Week OnsiteDomestic relocation assistance is NOT availableVisa sponsorship is NOT available with this positionUp to 10% travel may be requiredSummary Pay Range$112,710.00 - $169,060.00Compensation 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.BenefitsSubject 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 benefitsLife InsuranceParental leaveAdoption benefitsTuition Reimbursement These benefits also apply to part-time employeesThis position requires working onsite five days a week.Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.Posting DatesMay 28, 2026 - June 11, 2026Any 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. 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