Caterpillar, Inc

2026 Entry Level Project Applications Engineer

Caterpillar, Inc$72K — $108K *
Energy & Utilities
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • B.S. or higher in Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
  • Minimum GPA of 2.8 on a 4.0 scale.
  • 0-3 years of relevant engineering experience.
  • Internship experience in an engineering role preferred.
  • Proficiency in Excel and programming languages.

Responsibilities

  • Assist in reviewing customer specifications.
  • Select and optimize Solar's turbomachinery offerings.
  • Prepare proposals with technical and commercial definitions.
  • Analyze customer application requirements for Oil and Gas applications.
  • Provide accurate equipment performance predictions based on aerodynamics and thermodynamics knowledge.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • Paid time off including vacation and holidays
  • 401(k) savings plan
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Career development opportunities
  • Incentive bonus potential
  • Disability benefits
  • Tuition reimbursement assistance
Full Job Description
Career Area:
Technology, Digital and Data

Job Description:

Project Applications Engineers (PAE) and Systems Analysis Engineers (SAE) assist in the direction of Solar's internal activities associated with supporting the sale of new turbomachinery packages for the Oil and Gas market. The position involves working with senior applications engineers, field sales and a wide cross section of other departments to plan, develop, and execute technical and commercial strategies to successfully compete for new equipment business.

Job Responsibilities include:
  • Assisting with the review of customer specifications
  • Selection and optimization of Solar's turbomachinery equipment offering pricing custom features, proposal preparation and turning the job over to business management with good technical and commercial definition so that it can be executed efficiently.


Training plan includes:
  • Spending approximately 6 months in systems analysis learning to analyze customer specification, application requirements, and process gas properties for Oil and Gas upstream and midstream compression applications.
  • Understanding process requirements for typical oil and gas upstream and midstream applications
  • Provide compressor set selections and equipment performance predictions by applying state of the art programs and a good overall knowledge of the capabilities and limitations of Solar's turbomachinery products; compressor set selections involve the proper selection of compressor models and Solar standard impellers to meet operating conditions defined, based on the understanding of compressor aerodynamics and thermodynamics.
  • Additional time in other departments will also be spent to understand the functions of the groups that a PAE/SAE interfaces with on a regular basis.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Currently in the process of receiving or have already received a B.S. or higher in Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical Engineering, or related degree.
  • 2.8 GPA or higher on a 4.0 scale.
  • 0-3 years of relevant experience.


Preferred Qualifications:
  • Internship(s) in an engineering role.
  • Proficiency in Excel, macros programming languages and functions.
  • Demonstrated communication skills (verbal and written).
  • Sense of urgency and organizational skills to work with multiple projects and competing priorities.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with internal and external customers, with proficiency in communicating technical information.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and complete assigned tasks in a timely manner.


This employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as H, L, TN, F, J, E, O.

Summary Pay Range:

$72,360.00 - $108,540.00

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 Caterpillar.

Benefits:

Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement


* These benefits also apply to part-time employees

This position requires working onsite five days a week.

Relocation is available for this position.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates:
July 15, 2026 - July 29, 2026

Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.

Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

About Caterpillar, Inc

Progress Rail Services Corporation, a Caterpillar company, is one of the largest integrated and diversified suppliers of railroad and transit system products and services worldwide. Since its acquisition by Caterpillar Inc. in 2006, Progress Rail has used the Caterpillar international footprint to gain quick and widespread notice and approval across the globe. Product technology, reliability and durability, along with legendary aftermarket parts and service support, have been their keys to success. Caterpillar is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines. The technology and world reach of Caterpillar, combined with the service standard and historical reliability of Progress Rail, ensures their products and services make a growing impact on the world rail industry. With their acquisition of Electro-Motive Diesel (EMD), Progress Rail is the world's largest builder of diesel-electric locomotives for all commercial railroad applications including freight, intercity passenger, commuter, switching, industrial and mining. EMD is also a global provider of diesel power engines for marine propulsion, offshore and land based oil well drilling rigs and stationary power generation. Electro-Motive is the only diesel engine manufacturer of its size to have produced more than 70,000 engines. This success stems from product reliability, serviceability, load acceptance capability, low operating costs and ease of maintenance with standardized components.

Caterpillar, Inc. Careers

Join the robust team at Caterpillar, Inc., a global leader in construction and mining equipment, where innovation drives everything we do. As part of our team, you'll engage in work that improves the world and furthers your career with every project you touch.

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Choosing a career at Caterpillar means more than just having a job. It means you're part of a team that values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We offer competitive benefits to ensure the health and well-being of our employees and their families. These benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, alongside unique perks like professional development and diversity training programs.

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Prepare for Your Interview

Make a great first impression. Prepare for your interview at Caterpillar by reviewing common questions and practicing your responses. Tailor your resume to highlight the experiences and skills that make you the ideal candidate for the position you are applying for. At Caterpillar, Inc., every role offers the chance to make an impact. Come be a part of our team and drive the future of our global industries. Your career at Caterpillar is not just about what you'll accomplish, but how you'll grow and the innovation you'll lead. Join us and build a career that matters.
Learn more about Caterpillar, Inc
Size
107,700 employees
Market Cap
$125.3 billion
Industry
Net Income
$2.9 billion
Founded
1925
5 Year Trend
+5.8%
Revenue
$41.7 billion
NASDAQ

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