Sr. Fluids Engineer

John Deere John Deere · Industrial · Moline, IL +1 · Product Engineering (CA)

John Deere is seeking a Sr. Fluids Engineer to lead and coordinate complex vehicle and engine fluids development and test programs. This role involves serving as a technical integrator across materials, fluids, and components, interfacing with suppliers and internal engineering partners, and providing documented engineering judgment to support design decisions. The engineer will also lead the development of fluids specifications and test procedures and provide technical support to engine-coolant projects.

What you'd actually do

  1. Lead and coordinate complex vehicle and engine fluids development and test programs.
  2. Interface with suppliers, external labs, and internal engineering partners.
  3. Provide documented engineering judgment supporting design decisions.
  4. Lead development of fluids specifications (JDM) and test procedures (JDQ)
  5. Provide technical and application support to engine-coolant projects with goal of becoming subject matter expert.

Skills

Required

  • Five or more years of experience in a combination of: fluid development, lubrication engineering, validation/testing, hydraulic or thermal systems, materials/fluid compatibility
  • Knowledge of lubricants, hydraulic fluids, coolants, fuels, and respective industries
  • Understanding of fluid/material compatibility with metals, elastomers, polymers, seals, and coatings
  • Experience developing or executing fluids test plans, validation matrices, or qualification procedures
  • Knowledge of industry standards such as ASTM, SAE, ISO, or OEM specifications
  • Expert in fluid properties such as viscosity, density, thermal stability, oxidation resistance, foaming, corrosion protection, and compatibility
  • Familiarity with supplier technical reviews and specification writing
  • Supplier collaboration for fluid development or troubleshooting
  • Ability to travel up to 25% based on business needs

Nice to have

  • Deep experience leading fluid-related development programs
  • Ability to define requirements, influence specifications, and guide validation strategy
  • Experience in electrification, thermal management, or advanced materials compatibility
  • Application experience in developing diesel engine and/or hydraulic systems
  • Project management skills: tracking actions, timelines, risks, and deliverables