Caterpillar, Inc

Director, Engineering

Caterpillar, Inc • $189K — $283K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Extensive experience in embedded software, controls engineering, or product development environments.
  • Significant leadership experience managing engineering teams or technical organizations.
  • Demonstrated expertise in embedded software development and control systems engineering.
  • Strong understanding of software development lifecycles and architecture.

Responsibilities

  • Define and execute the long-term strategy for embedded controls and software solutions.
  • Lead global teams of Embedded Software Engineers, fostering technical excellence and innovation.
  • Establish software architecture standards and engineering governance frameworks.
  • Drive the development and validation of embedded software and control systems.
  • Partner with cross-functional organizations to ensure successful product delivery.
  • Develop and maintain technology roadmaps for software and controls objectives.
  • Ensure compliance with product quality and safety requirements.

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)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
Full Job Description
Career Area:
Engineering

Job Description:

Job Summary:

The Director, Embedded Control Systems Engineering provides strategic and technical leadership for the development, integration, validation, and deployment of embedded controls for critical subsystems. This role leads teams of controls engineers and embedded software engineers responsible for requirements development, control algorithm development, integrating, and validating embedded software and control system solutions for drivetrain, braking systems, steering systems, implement systems as well as multi-system integration controls across Caterpillar's global machine portfolio.

The Director provides critical leadership in program execution and setting strategies for future technology and development practices. The Director helps establish the technical vision for world class development practices, aligns engineering execution with enterprise business objectives, and partners closely with product groups, manufacturing, validation, digital, and customer-facing organizations to deliver industry-leading solutions. This position is accountable for organizational capability development, talent leadership, technology strategy, and engineering excellence across global teams.

What You Will Do:
  • Define and execute the long-term strategy for embedded controls and software solutions supporting drivetrain, braking systems, steering systems, implement systems and integrated systems control.
  • Lead global teams of Embedded Software Engineers and Software Engineers, fostering technical excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.
  • Establish software architecture standards, development processes, coding best practices, and engineering governance frameworks.
  • Drive the development, integration, and validation of embedded software and control systems across Caterpillar's product portfolio.
  • Partner with product engineering, systems engineering, validation, manufacturing, service support, and supply chain organizations to ensure successful product delivery.
  • Develop and maintain technology roadmaps supporting software, controls, drivetrain, and machine performance objectives.
  • Ensure compliance with product quality, reliability, cybersecurity, and safety requirements throughout the development lifecycle.
  • Oversee requirements management, verification and validation activities, release planning, and software integration efforts.
  • Manage engineering budgets, workforce planning, organizational design, and strategic investments.
  • Champion modern software development methodologies, digital engineering tools, model-based development, and simulation capabilities.
  • Build organizational capabilities through talent acquisition, leadership development, succession planning, and employee engagement.
  • Communicate engineering strategy, technical risks, and business impacts to executive leadership and key stakeholders.
  • Monitor emerging technologies and industry trends to maintain Caterpillar's leadership in embedded software and controls innovation.


What You Will Have:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Extensive experience in embedded software, controls engineering, or product development environments.
  • Significant leadership experience managing engineering teams, managers, or technical organizations.
  • Demonstrated expertise in embedded software development, systems integration, and control systems engineering.
  • Strong understanding of software development lifecycles, architecture, verification, validation, and release processes.
  • Experience developing software solutions for complex mechanical or electro-mechanical products.
  • Proven ability to lead large-scale technical initiatives and influence strategic business decisions.
  • Strong communication, collaboration, change management, and stakeholder engagement skills.
  • Experience managing budgets, resources, and organizational priorities.
  • Ability to lead and inspire global, cross-functional engineering teams.


Considerations For Top Candidates:
  • Master's degree or Ph.D. in Engineering, Computer Science, Controls Engineering, or a related discipline.
  • Experience with drivetrain, transmission, braking, powertrain, or vehicle control systems.
  • Experience in off-highway, construction equipment, mining equipment, industrial, automotive, or heavy equipment industries.
  • Knowledge of model-based development tools such as MATLAB/Simulink.
  • Experience with agile software development methodologies and DevOps practices.
  • Understanding of embedded cybersecurity principles and secure software development practices.
  • Experience with requirements management and systems engineering tools.
  • Knowledge of functional safety standards and reliability engineering principles.
  • Experience leading software modernization, digital transformation, or enterprise technology initiatives.
  • Strong systems-thinking capability and strategic technology planning experience.


Additional Info:
  • This position requires the candidate to work full-time at the Mossville, IL or Irving, TX office
  • This role requires 5 days onsite.
  • Sponsorship is not available.
  • Relocation is available.


Summary Pay Range:

$189,080.00 - $283,630.00

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

Posting Dates:
September 30, 2026 - October 6, 2026

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.

Work You’ll Do

At Caterpillar, Inc., you will have the opportunity to contribute to a variety of groundbreaking projects that extend across the globe. Our commitment to leadership in the industry is unwavering, and we achieve it through a culture that fosters diversity and leadership development.

Explore Job Opportunities and Growth

Caterpillar offers a wide range of job opportunities and career paths, providing a platform for professional growth and development. Whether you're interested in engineering, sales, marketing, or management, Caterpillar has a position that will utilize your unique skills and talents. We are continuously hiring innovative minds to propel our mission forward and maintain our status as industry leaders.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with a Caterpillar internship. Our internships provide invaluable workplace experience and networking opportunities that often lead to full-time employment at our company. As an intern, you will work alongside experienced professionals and gain insights that will benefit you as you advance in your career.

Benefits and Culture

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.

Innovation and Leadership

Drive innovation and industry leadership as part of the Caterpillar team. We empower our employees to lead from their first day on the job, encouraging continuous improvement and career advancement. At Caterpillar, your ideas will shape the future of our business and the industries we serve.

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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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