Hydraulic Installation Engineer
Decatur, Illinois
Job Description & Skill Requirement:
• The Hydraulic System Installation & Integration Engineer is responsible for the design, installation, validation, and continuous improvement of hydraulic systems . This role ensures that hydraulic components and assemblies are integrated efficiently, meet performance requirements, and comply with quality, safety, and manufacturing standards.
• The position requires close collaboration with design engineering, manufacturing, quality, and supplier teams to support production readiness, resolve technical issues, and drive improvements in reliability, cost, and installation efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
• Lead the installation and routing of hydraulic systems, including hoses, tubes, manifolds, pumps, valves, and cylinders.
• Develop and validate installation procedures, ensuring proper fit, function, and serviceability.
• Ensure compliance with design standards, safety requirements, and best practices.
Design & Engineering Support
• Collaborate with design engineering teams to review hydraulic schematics and 3D models.
• Provide Design for Assembly (DFA) and Design for Manufacturability (DFM) input to optimize installation processes.
• Support ECOs (Engineering Change Orders) and implement design updates in production.
• Testing & Validation
• Support hydraulic system testing, troubleshooting, and validation activities.
• Analyze system performance issues such as leaks, pressure losses, routing interference, or vibration.
• Work with validation teams to ensure systems meet durability and performance requirements.
• Supplier & Cross-functional Coordination
• Interface with suppliers to ensure components meet specifications and installation requirements.
• Coordinate with procurement and quality teams to resolve supplier-related issues.
• Collaborate with production teams to resolve shop-floor challenges and improve build quality.
Required Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in hydraulic systems, preferably in heavy equipment, automotive, or industrial applications.
• Strong understanding of:
• Hydraulic circuits and components
• Hose/tube routing and installation practices
• Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., Creo).
• Experience reading technical drawings.
Preferred Qualifications
• Experience working in a Caterpillar or heavy equipment manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of Caterpillar standards (e.g., CAT specs for hose routing, clipping, and installation).
• Familiarity with:
• PLM systems (Teamcenter or Windchill)
• ERP systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES)
• Experience with prototype builds, NPI (New Product Introduction), or pilot production.
Key Skills & Competencies
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Effective cross-functional communication
• Ability to work in fast-paced, production-driven environments
• Hands-on troubleshooting and root cause analysis
Working Conditions
• Combination of office and shop floor environment
• Exposure to manufacturing conditions including noise, moving equipment, and hydraulic systems
• Occasional travel may be required to supplier locations or other facilities
• Typical Deliverables / Success Metrics
• Reduction in hydraulic installation defects and leaks
• Improved installation cycle time and efficiency
• Successful implementation of design changes into production
• High first-pass yield on hydraulic systems
• Enhanced serviceability and reliability of installed systems
