Caterpillar logo

Fabrication Project Engineer

Caterpillar
Full-time
On-site
Illinois

Career Area:

Manufacturing

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.

Fabrication Project Engineer

Location: East Peoria, Illinois
Work Type: On-site
Relocation Assistance: Offered
Travel: Up to 5%
Visa Sponsorship: Not Available
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Level: Individual Contributor
Industry: Manufacturing / Industrial Engineering
Function: Engineering / Manufacturing Operations / Automation / Welding

Build What Matters at Caterpillar

At Caterpillar, we build more than machines—we build a better world. As a Manufacturing Project Engineer, you’ll be part of a team driving innovation in robotic welding and automated fabrication systems. You’ll lead technical projects that improve safety, quality, velocity, and cost across our manufacturing operations.

What You’ll Do

  • Lead the implementation of automated robotic welding and fabrication systems.
  • Partner with fabrication suppliers to resolve welding-related issues and optimize operations.
  • Debug and troubleshoot robotic systems to ensure seamless automation and high-quality output.
  • Provide technical guidance on production design, cost efficiency, quality standards, and safety compliance.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally to develop and refine manufacturing processes and systems.

Required Skills & Experience

  • Quality Management: Develops and implements quality assurance processes using Six Sigma, ISO 9000, or Baldrige frameworks to drive team performance and exceed quality targets.
  • Problem Solving: Leads cross-functional resolution efforts by applying diverse analytical tools and strategies to solve complex manufacturing challenges with broad impact.
  • Robotics / Computer-Controlled Machinery: Manages the integration and long-term planning of robotic systems, setting standards for human-robot collaboration and performance optimization.
  • Metal Fabrication: Designs and oversees the fabrication of metal structures while mentoring teams on welding techniques, assembly procedures, and safety compliance.
  • Welding – Manufacturing: Continuously evaluates and enhances welding processes and equipment, partnering with vendors to implement advanced welding technologies.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in lean manufacturing, capacity planning, and change control.
  • Familiarity with project management tools and techniques.
  • CWI certificate

Why Join Us

  • Competitive compensation and benefits.
  • Opportunities for career growth and technical leadership.
  • A collaborative, inclusive, and safety-first culture.
  • The chance to shape the future of manufacturing through automation and innovation.

Summary Pay Range:

$110,520.00 - $165,840.00

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

Posting Dates:

September 23, 2025 - October 6, 2025

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.