Project Engineer – Bogie Systems

Job Purpose

Responsible for the design, development, analysis, testing, and lifecycle support of locomotive bogie systems and related components. The role involves daily application of multibody dynamics, core engineering principles, analytical methods, modeling, drafting, manufacturing processes, and technical documentation, as well as effective communication and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

Req ID

11878BR

Region

United States

City

La Grange

State:

Illinois

Company Description

Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation—driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world’s largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost-effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD® locomotives that ride them, the company’s products are in operation across more than 100 countries—powering progress and connecting communities. In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting-edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail—they are making history every day.

Key Job Elements

• Lead the design and development of locomotive bogie systems and associated components.
• Create, interpret, and maintain engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Perform root-cause analysis of design, manufacturing, and reliability issues and implement effective corrective actions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams, suppliers, and plant personnel to drive cost reduction, process improvements, product enhancements, and support build programs.
• Provide technical direction and hands-on support to engineering support staff and production teams.
• Perform, report and be accountable of vehicle dynamic analysis.
• Support testing, validation, and the introduction of new designs, systems, and equipment.
• Maintain ownership and accountability for mechanical designs and released drawings.
• Communicate clearly and effectively with internal and external stakeholders across all project phases.
• Stay current with emerging technologies, industry trends, and competitive products.
• Support special projects and travel as required.
  
  
  

Education / Training

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• 1 to 3 years of practical work experience in Mechanical Engineering or related fields.
• Previous railway vehicles familiarity and design experience.
  
  
  

Qualifications And Experience

• Strong foundation in engineering principles, materials science, and engineering theory.
• Solid understanding of manufacturing processes, including welding, casting, fabrication, and assembly.
• Ability to read, interpret, and apply complex engineering drawings and specifications.
• Knowledge of multibody system dynamics and their application to vehicle systems.
• Knowledge in Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools, such as NX / Unigraphics.
• Knowledge in Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools, such as ANSYS and NASTRAN.
• Strong working knowledge of MS Excel for engineering calculations and data analysis.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and root-cause investigation skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively across cross-functional teams and multiple locations.
• Ability to learn quickly and adapt effectively in fast‑paced engineering environments.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in English language.
  
  
  

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 low to intense levels of pushing, pulling, climbing, balancing,

crouching, stooping, kneeling, reaching, 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. Position may require travel as necessary,

both domestic and international.

• 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.

Benefits

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 Progress Rail.**

• 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.
• Subject to position, eligibility, and plan guidelines. EEO Progress Rail is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.
  
  
  

Job Category

Engineering

PRS Facility Location

EMD HQ LaGrange, IL - 400

Summary Pay Range

$77,069.75 - $139,668.00