Application Guide

How to Apply for Systems Designer

at Oshkosh Corporation

🏢 About Oshkosh Corporation

Oshkosh Corporation is a leader in innovative industrial technology, known for designing and manufacturing specialty vehicles and equipment that enhance safety and resilience in communities worldwide. Working here means contributing to mission-critical solutions for defense, firefighting, and infrastructure sectors, with a strong commitment to quality and continuous improvement.

About This Role

As a Systems Designer, you will support engineering teams by creating and modifying detailed drawings and Bill of Materials using CAD software, ensuring adherence to Oshkosh standards. Your work directly impacts production efficiency and product quality, from initial design to resolving build issues on the shop floor.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day starts with reviewing design requests from engineers, then creating or updating CAD models and drawings using GD&T. You'll collaborate with production teams to troubleshoot build issues, update BOMs in the system, and ensure all documentation meets Oshkosh standards. Afternoons might include meetings to discuss design changes or reviewing drawings for accuracy before release.

🎯 Who Oshkosh Corporation Is Looking For

  • Holds a Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field with at least 2 years of hands-on design experience, preferably in industrial or heavy equipment sectors.
  • Demonstrates strong proficiency in GD&T and can read and interpret complex engineering drawings accurately.
  • Is highly detail-oriented with excellent communication skills to collaborate with engineers and production teams.
  • Proficient in CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and standard Windows Office tools, with ability to manage BOMs efficiently.

📝 Tips for Applying to Oshkosh Corporation

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific GD&T experience and CAD proficiency, using keywords from the job description like 'Bill of Materials' and 'production support'.

2

Include a portfolio or examples of drawings you've created or modified, emphasizing accuracy and adherence to standards.

3

In your cover letter, mention any experience with Oshkosh's product lines (e.g., fire trucks, military vehicles) to show industry alignment.

4

Research Oshkosh's recent innovations (e.g., electric vehicles, autonomous systems) and mention how your design skills can contribute.

5

Apply through the company website and follow up with a concise email to the hiring manager expressing interest and summarizing your qualifications.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Emphasize your hands-on experience with GD&T and CAD software, providing specific examples of drawings or BOMs you've managed.", 'Highlight your ability to support production by resolving build issues and collaborating with cross-functional teams.', "Express enthusiasm for Oshkosh's mission of enhancing community safety and resilience through industrial technology.", "Mention your attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, which are critical for maintaining Oshkosh's quality standards."]

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Explore Oshkosh's core business segments (access equipment, defense, fire & emergency) and their flagship products.
  • Review recent news about Oshkosh's sustainability initiatives, such as electric vehicle development or community programs.
  • Understand the company's engineering culture by reading employee reviews on Glassdoor or LinkedIn.
  • Familiarize yourself with Oshkosh's quality standards and any industry certifications (e.g., ISO 9001) they adhere to.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you had to correct a drawing error that impacted production. How did you handle it?
2 How do you ensure your CAD models and drawings comply with GD&T standards? Walk us through your process.
3 Explain how you would create and manage a Bill of Materials for a complex assembly.
4 How do you prioritize and manage multiple design requests from different engineers or projects?
5 What experience do you have with Oshkosh's specific product lines (e.g., JLG, Pierce, Oshkosh Defense)?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic resume that doesn't highlight CAD and GD&T skills specifically.
  • Failing to proofread for typos or errors, especially in technical terms like 'Bill of Materials' or 'Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing'.
  • Not providing specific examples of design work or production support in your application or interview.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Oshkosh Corporation!