Design Engineer (BHL)

Design Engineer (BHL)

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.

Salary: £49,500 rising to £61,000 depending on skills demonstrated

Contract: Full time & permanent

Location: Desford, Leicestershire – domestic relocation will be considered

The opportunity:

As the Design Engineer for the Backhoe Loader (BHL) Product Group, part of Caterpillar's Building Construction Products (BCP), you are responsible for the design, validation, release, and ongoing support of fabricated and non-metallic machine components across the BHL product line. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality, cost-effective design solutions that improve machine performance and customer value.

What you will do:

As a Design Engineer, you are accountable for, but not limited to:

• Design and develop fabricated components and assemblies, including routing of hydraulic, coolant, and air-conditioning hose systems
• Support the design and validation of non-metallic components such as fluid reservoirs and exterior enclosures
• Lead designs through validation, release, and introduction into production to ensure quality and performance
• Collaborate with global engineering teams, manufacturing, suppliers, and supply chain partners to deliver new designs into series production
• Manage and communicate engineering change through the full product lifecycle
• Communicate design progress, risks, and outcomes through presentations and technical reports

NB. The panel cannot make assumptions when shortlisting therefore please demonstrate your qualifications and experience on your CV relevant to the criteria outlined.

What you can demonstrate:

Level: Extensive Experience

• Computer-Aided Design & Engineering: Ability to create, modify, and manage complex 3D component and assembly designs using recognized CAD tools and engineering standards, ensuring designs are suitable for manufacture, validation, and series production.
• Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyze complex mechanical or system-level problems, identify root causes, and develop balanced design solutions by considering performance, cost, risk, and feasibility.

Level: Working Knowledge

• Product Design – Manufacturing: Ability to translate customer and functional requirements into practical, manufacturable designs, supporting validation, production launch, and ongoing product support through collaboration with manufacturing and suppliers.
• Effective Communication: Ability to clearly communicate design intent, status, and changes to cross-functional and global stakeholders through reports and presentations, adapting communication style as needed.

What you may have:

• Practical knowledge of Backhoe Loader or similar mobile construction equipment, enabling design decisions that reflect real operating conditions, customer usage, and serviceability requirements.
• Hands-on experience operating or maintaining mobile equipment, supporting the development of durable, reliable designs that perform effectively in demanding field environments.

Pending the number of applications, the criteria for the position may be enhanced to facilitate shortlisting.

What you will get: One company, limitless opportunities

Caterpillar 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. We do business on every continent, principally operating through three primary segments – Construction Industries, Resource Industries, and Energy & Transportation – and providing financing and related services through our Financial Products segment.

Careers at Caterpillar are limitless, we have opportunities in Engineering, Human Resources, Manufacturing, Marketing, Sales, Supply Chain and so much more. You can create the career you want. It's your time and talent, make it count.

Our sustainability commitment

Caterpillar has a long-standing commitment to sustainability, one of our five Values in Action. It is part of who we are and what we do. We actively lead sustainable green initiatives to preserve the environment, help reduce poverty with the Caterpillar Foundation and stay involved in the communities we help build.

Benefits: 27 days annual leave + bank holidays, opportunity to buy additional holiday, 10% Bonus, contributory pension scheme - Caterpillar will double the employee's contribution up to 10%, contributory share scheme - Caterpillar will match 50% of the employee's contribution, Employee Support Networks – join groups that offer support, connection, and a sense of community, optional flexible benefits including access to private health and dental care plans, EV car lease etc

Travel: up to 5% including UK, Europe, Asia and Americas

This position requires working onsite five days a week. Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.