Caterpillar, Inc

Lead Data Scientist, Cat Digital

Caterpillar, Inc$128K — $208K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Master's or PhD in data science, statistics, mathematics, or related fields with quantitative coursework
  • 3-5 years of experience in quantitative analysis, or 2+ years with a PhD
  • Extensive experience transitioning from proof of concept to production
  • Proficient in statistical methods (e.g., regression, ANOVA) and machine learning techniques
  • Expertise in Python programming and familiarity with cloud technologies.

Responsibilities

  • Participate in multiple projects utilizing advanced analytics to address complex business challenges
  • Drive teams towards project goals while owning all project aspects
  • Initiate and prioritize opportunities with minimal managerial oversight
  • Develop analytical solutions using Caterpillar's Aftermarket data
  • Create impactful messaging and presentation materials; communicate effectively in various settings
  • Lead cross-functional teamwork to achieve consensus and foster collaboration
  • Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of Caterpillar Inc. and its market influences.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • Paid time off (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer)
  • 401(k) savings plan
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Career Development opportunities
  • Incentive bonus
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Parental leave.
  • Life Insurance.
Full Job Description
Career Area:
Technology, Digital and Data

Job Description:

Job Summary:

As a Lead Aftermarket Data Scientist in the global aftermarket analytics team of Cat Digital, you will be tasked with enabling services growth by collaborating with other teams such as aftermarket leads and insights, business segments, and Cat Digital Analytics to maximize the value extraction of our digital products and services. With over 1.5M connected assets worldwide, using the latest technology, data is generated continuously by Cat® equipment in our business and in the industries we serve. Your responsibility will be using advanced analytics and AI capabilities on this vast amount of data to help our customers build a better world. To accomplish these daunting challenges, this role will require a skillset in advanced statistical techniques (machine learning, AI, etc.) as well as existing or ability to quickly gain domain knowledge of heavy equipment, industries we serve, and the business practices therein

What You Will Do:
  • Participate on 3-4 projects concurrently exploring, implementing, and promoting advanced statistical methods and/or digital methods to solve medium to complex business problems.
  • Holds team accountable for driving and achieving results and owns all aspects of assigned projects
  • Proactively prioritizes and drives opportunities with very minimal managerial support
  • Work with and use Caterpillar's Aftermarket data to understand and develop analytical solutions for medium to complex business problems.
  • Develops exceptionally compelling messaging, written documents, and presentation materials, and is a compelling speaker in a wide variety of situations
  • Leads interactions with cross-functional teams to engage diverse participants and ensure effective consensus and collaboration
  • Demonstrate good knowledge of Caterpillar Inc.; its products and services; its internal systems, processes, and procedures; and its relevant external influences (competitors, laws and regulations, market conditions, etc.) to meet or exceed customer expectations.


What You Will Have
  • Analytical Thinking: Extensive knowledge of techniques and tools that promote effective analysis; ability to determine the root cause of organizational problems and create alternative solutions that resolve these problems. Expert ability to use logic and intuition to make inferences about the meaning of the data or unexpected results in data, and arrives at actionable conclusions and implements the corresponding actions.
  • Leadership & Collaboration in Analytics: Expert level experience in autonomously working closely with cross-functional teams, providing data-driven insights, collaborating on projects, developing good communication, and effectively presenting material to solve medium to complex business challenges.
  • Business Statistics: Extensive experience with statistical tools, processes, and practices to describe business results in measurable scales; ability to use statistical tools and processes to assist in making business decisions.
  • Machine Learning: Extensive knowledge of principles, technologies and algorithms of machine learning; ability to develop, implement and deliver related systems, products and services.
  • Programming Languages: Expert knowledge of basic concepts and capabilities applying Python (NumPy, SciPy, Pandas, etc) programming; ability to use tools, techniques and platforms in order to write and modify programming languages.


Considerations for Top Candidates:
  • Masters or PhD degree preferably in data science, statistics, mathematics, or a similar field with quantitative coursework.
  • Typically, 3-5 years of professional experience utilizing quantitative analysis, or a PhD degree and 2+ years of experience.
  • Extensive experience taking an approach from a POC state to production, driving actionable results in the business
  • Extensive experience with projects connecting data from various business domains and providing forecasts and insights to run the business profitably
  • Extensive experience with data analysis and statistical methods such as regression, hypothesis testing, ANOVA, statistical process control, etc.
  • Extensive experience in practical applications of machine learning techniques such as Clustering, Logistic Regression, CART, Random Forests, SVM or Neural Networks.
  • In-depth technical and problem-solving skills and evidence of continuous learning in the analytics field
  • Advanced experience with version control / repositories such as GitHub
  • Experience operating in an Agile environment
  • Must demonstrate strong initiative, interpersonal skills, and the ability to communicate effectively.
  • Extensive experience applying Python (NumPy, SciPy, pandas, etc.) programming to solve business challenges.
  • Experience with cloud technologies (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, etc)
  • Must demonstrate strong initiative to research and apply new methods and digital technologies to exceed customer expectations.
  • Must demonstrate strong initiative, interpersonal skills, and the ability to communicate effectively.


What You Will Get:

Working with a Fortune 100 leader, you can build your career on a global scale and take advantage of development opportunities with emerging technologies. We've created an inclusive environment for you to explore your passions, make an impact and do the work that really matters. Join Us.

Additional Details:
  • This position has the option to be based out of either our Chicago, IL; Peoria, IL; or Champaign, IL offices
  • Relocation Assistance is NOT available for this role


Summary Pay Range:

$128,470.00 - $208,770.00

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

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates:
August 28, 2026 - September 13, 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.

Join Our Team

Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Ready to start your journey at Caterpillar, Inc.? Explore our career portal for the latest job opportunities.

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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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