Mechanical Engineer

Company: Progress Rail
Location: Independence
Posted on: May 10, 2025

Job Description:

Job Purpose

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Progress Rail Services Corporation, a Caterpillar Company and a leading provider of services to the Railroad industry in the US, Canada, Mexico, and Brazil, seeks a MECHANICAL DESIGN ENGINEER for their Independence, MO facility. The Mechanical Design Engineer will be responsible for carrying out duties for the engineering department, including design, research, prototyping, engineering documentation, estimating and participate in process improvement activities. The successful candidate will report directly to the manager the team assigned and will collaborate with other departments (such as purchasing, operations, program management and manufacturing) on ongoing production and R&D projects. The individual in this position is expected to evaluate, select, and apply state-of-the-art design techniques, standardized procedures and FRA and AAR criteria using sound judgment.

Req ID

10561BR

Work Location Options

Independence, MO

City

Independence

State:

Missouri

Company Description

Progress Rail, a Caterpillar company, is an integrated rolling stock and infrastructure provider, delivering a full range of products and services to domestic and international railroad customers. Our customers enjoy one-stop shopping and comprehensive cradle-to-grave railway solutions - whether it rolls on the rail or is the rail itself. From locomotives, transit, freight cars and engines, to tracks, signals and advanced technology, we ensure customers can count on us to meet all their rail needs. Forging the bridge between ideas and success, our talented and innovative team members work together to address the challenges of the rail industry today, ensuring success for the future. As part of a vibrant, global network of business operations, each and every member of our team is important to our success. With headquarters in Albertville, Ala., more than 7,000 dedicated employees serve customers through a network of close to 150 locations around the world. For more information, visit www.progressrail.com and follow @Progress_Rail on Twitter and YouTube.

Key Job Elements

--- Assists in developing engineering designs utilizing 3D modeling programs (Unigraphics, Pro-E);
--- Assists in implementing engineering changes;
--- Develops new applications based on customer requirements;
--- Initiates documents to provide engineering authority;
--- Create, organize and maintain engineering specifications up to date;
--- Produces necessary design reports and related documentation;
--- Participates in solution of engineering related product problems (Root Cause);
--- Performs design analysis and physical testing on prototypes;
--- Provides technical direction to other support teams (such as manufacturing and field service);
--- Releases parts for production;
--- Works with engineering functions, suppliers, plant personnel and others to implement cost reduction, methods improvement, product improvements, and to support build programs;
--- Plans and implements test and / or development programs;
--- Communicates information to and from internal and external customer organizations;
--- Coordinates and consults with departments outside engineering such as manufacturing;
--- Coordinates activities and help accomplishing departmental goals and tasks on time;
--- Stays abreast of new technology and competitive products;
--- Ensure compliance with recommended safety procedures and good housekeeping standards;
--- Produces an error free engineering design package using sound design practices;
--- Able to read, interpret, and generate electrical schematics and designs;
--- Coordinate and analyze vendor supplied drawings and incorporate the required information into project drawings.

Education / Training

--- Bachelor's Degree in Engineering with thorough understanding of baseline relevant engineering principles.
Preferred Masters Degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Qualifications and Experience

--- 3-5 years of experience in machine design and integration;
--- Experience with CAD software, such as AutoCAD; experience with 3D modeling software such as Inventor,
Solid-Works, etc.;
--- Experience with Precision Machining Process development;
--- Experience with detailed technical drawings; ability to read and understand technical drawings;
--- Ability to research and understand American (AREMA) standards;
--- Knowledge of geometry and relation to systems; fundamental knowledge of math equations including algebra and trigonometry with proficiency relevant to designs; knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T);
--- Experience with ERP software for manufacturing;
--- High level of analytical ability;
--- High level of interpersonal skills with ability to work effectively in a team environment;
--- Strong communication skills, both written and oral; able to create detailed specifications, procedures, and technical reports;
--- Critical thinking and organizational skills;
--- Strong proficiency with MS Office tools, with particular skills in Excel.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE
--- Previous locomotive or heavy equipment design familiarity and test experience;
--- Experience with Unigraphics, NX 7.5, and TeamCenter Engineering design software;
--- Experience with Pro-E and other 3D modeling programs;
--- Familiarity with mechanical engineering and electrical engineering design processes;
--- Some electrical design experience and knowledge;
--- Expected high level of analytical ability where problems are unusual and difficult;
--- Thorough understanding of complex mechanical and/or electrical concepts;
--- Familiarity with Association of American Railroads (AAR) specifications and regional industry standards a plus; experience with ISO requirements.

Essential and Physical Activities Functions:
--- Strength - Position typically involves work in an office environment with occasional visits to an industrial environment. Frequent/constant sitting. Occasional standing and walking. Occasional light to medium-level lifting or carrying (up to 30 pounds);
--- Motion - Position regularly requires standard motions associated with working in an office environment. Depending on assigned project, position may occasionally require motions involved in an industrial working environment, including some kneeling, crouching, reaching, handling, grasping;
--- Vision/Hearing Requirements - Frequent verbal communications, including both talking and hearing;
--- Work Environment - Position is typically located in an office environment with occasional visits to an industrial environment which may include a non-temperature-controlled environment, as well as exposure to noise (85+ decibels), occasional exposure to temperature changes, heavy machinery and other hazardous working conditions requiring the use of PPE;
--- Emotional Demands - Very high level of responsibility. Must be able to coordinate diverse aspects of a project. Requires significant interpersonal skills while sustaining very high standards;
--- Safety - Position may occasionally require the use of Personal Protective Equipment during visits to industrial areas.

The preceding description is not designed to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities required of a Design Engineer.

Benefits

Competitive Salary
401(k) plan with up to 6% company match (no waiting period with immediate vesting)
Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance
Supplemental Accident, Critical Care, and Hospital Insurance available along with an HDHP and HSA with seed money
Flexible Spending Accounts
Paid Vacation
Paid Holidays
Paid Time-Off (PTO)
Employee Assistance Plan
Education Assistance Program
Employee Recognition Programs
Site specific Production and Incentive Plans
Site specific Step and Skill Level Wage Adjustment Plans
Site Specific Relocation and Sign-on Bonus Programs

*Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full-time/part-time and regular/temporary status. The provisions of the plan documents control such benefits.

EEO

Equal Opportunity Employer - Race/Color/Sex/Religion/National Origin/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Vets/Disabilities

Job Category

Engineering

PRS Facility Location

Independence, MO PRIIS - 287

Keywords: Progress Rail, Topeka , Mechanical Engineer, Engineering , Independence, Kansas