Principal Engineer

Komatsu
$120,000 - $140,000
life insurance, 401(k)
United States, Illinois, Peoria
2300 Northeast Adams Street (Show on map)
Jul 30, 2025
Job Description Apply now Principal Engineer Posting Start Date: 7/22/25 Job Location (Short): Peoria, Illinois, USA, 61639 Requisition ID: 33654 Onsite or Remote: Onsite Position Join Komatsu and Be Part of Something Big! Job Overview This position exists to provide North American Engineering & Development with leadership in the research, design and development mining truck power systems including electric drive systems, and energy storage systems. This position will lead the creation and maintenance of power systems, drive system and energy storage system specifications for new research and development projects. This position will plan, direct and organize the Company's inter-departmental initiative to optimize existing powertrain systems, coordinate with suppliers in order to enhance and improve operating performance of the powertrain components, develop short- and long-term strategies and goals to achieve the desired Safety, Quality, Performance, and Cost targets on schedule. Key Job Responsibilities Plan, organize, coordinate and lead the Company's power systems development and improvement initiatives to maintain industry leading technology in the areas of electrification, energy management, and vehicle system optimization. Develops and maintain state-of-the-art knowledge about mining truck drive systems and power systems. Understand competitive equipment features, performance, cost of operation and Total cost of ownership, etc. Make suggestions and motivate subordinates to conceive "Unrivaled Product Features.". Provides expert technical advice and recommendations; may support multiple business units or divisions. Leads major design and technical project reviews. Advises on regulatory and intellectual property concerns. Acts as consultant to senior management on technical matters. Identifies mentoring and development needs; serves as a mentor for other employees. May serve as division or functional specialist. Work with project leaders and assist in developing project plans and schedules which support the overall project schedule by identifying tasks and responsibilities, and guide, direct and monitor individuals as necessary. Lead inter-departmental initiatives to optimize existing powertrain systems, ensuring efficiency and reducing defects. Coordinate with suppliers to enhance product quality and improve customer satisfaction. Ensure all powertrain systems meet or exceed industry standards and regulatory requirements. Implement continuous improvement processes to enhance product quality and reduce production costs. Collaborate across departments and suppliers to optimize powertrain systems and enhance product quality. Lead initiatives to integrate cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions to improve powertrain systems. Review new and existing designs to support quality assurance processes to ensure powertrain systems meet the highest standards. Work closely with service team to gather feedback and implement changes to enhance product quality. Provide training and development opportunities to team members to ensure adherence to quality standards Qualifications/Requirements Incumbent is to have a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical, Electrical or related Engineering field with at least 8+ years of experience in the design of mining trucks or similar mobile equipment. Master's degree is desirable. Specific and demonstrable technical expertise on electric drive systems gained by designing drive systems and/or related components. In-depth knowledge of drive system theory, function and operation is essential. Detailed knowledge in the specialized fields of drive systems, ISO and MSHA regulations, and recommended practices related to drive systems and power systems. In addition, knowledge of mining practices, serviceability and maintenance procedures, operator preferences, etc. is beneficial. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills required to work within engineering as well as with other departments, vendors and subordinates and the ability to present to Senior Management. Thorough understanding of business-related issues such as budgeting cost control, critical path, ROI, etc. Proficiency in project control and presentation software is required. Detailed knowledge of competitor's equipment, capabilities, shortcomings and customer's expectations and trends is a significant plus. Ability and willingness to travel (20-30%), including internationally. Physical Requirements: While performing the duties of this job, the associate is required to have ordinary ambulatory skills sufficient to visit other locations; and the ability to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, and manipulate (life, carry, move) light to medium weights of 1-10 pounds. Requires good hand-eye coordination, arm, hand and finger dexterity, including ability to grasp, and visual acuity to use a keyboard, operate equipment and read application information. The associate frequently is required to sit, reach with hands and arms, talk and hear. Additional Information Hiring Range At Komatsu, your base pay is one part of your total compensation package. This role pays $120,000 - $140,000. The actual offer will consider a wide range of factors, including experience and location. Company Benefits Komatsu provides an extensive and robust employee benefits package that is designed to enhance the well-being of our employees and family members. We embrace a positive and empowering employee experience with a culture that prides itself on a diverse and inclusive environment. Health benefits: Medical, dental, vision, HSA, wellness programs, etc. 401k and/or employee savings programs Employee time off (vacation and designated holidays) Employee and family assistance programs Disability benefits Life insurance Employee learning and development programs Diversity & Inclusion Commitment At Komatsu, we come from diverse backgrounds, with unique perspectives, experiences and contributions. We believe that our people are part of our shared purpose. Connected by our core values of ambition, perseverance, collaboration and authenticity, we are committed to continually advancing in our support of diversity and inclusion. United, we are on a journey towards a sustainable future that creates value together. Company Information Komatsu develops and supplies technologies, equipment and services for the construction, mining, forklift, industrial and forestry markets. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Komatsu employs more than 64,000 people worldwide, operating in more than 140 countries. For more than a century, the company has been creating value for its customers through manufacturing and technology innovation, partnering with others to empower a sustainable future where people, business and the planet thrive together. Since the company's founding in 1921, Komatsu has been committed to supporting individuals and communities through job training, skills development and giving back. As a Komatsu employee, you will be encouraged to grow alongside our global company, contributing to a more sustainable future for all. If you are looking for a company that values your talent and potential, join Komatsu to be a part of something big and help advance modern society. Learn more at www.komatsu.com. EEO Statement Komatsu is an Equal Opportunity Workplace and an Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. Apply now