Caterpillar, Inc

Lead Sensor Simulation Engineer (NVIDIA Omniverse)

Caterpillar, Inc$128K — $208K *
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant technical field such as Robotics or Electrical Engineering.
  • 5+ years of experience in sensor development or autonomy.
  • Proficient in Python and C++ programming languages.
  • Hands-on experience with NVIDIA Omniverse and related simulation platforms.
  • Strong understanding of sensor physics and perception systems.
  • Experience in modeling various sensor types like LiDAR and radar.
  • Knowledge of computer vision and simulation-based testing methodologies.

Responsibilities

  • Develop high-fidelity sensor simulation models for various technologies.
  • Establish requirements and perform testing for sensor fidelity.
  • Implement realistic sensor characteristics in simulations.
  • Develop Omniverse Kit tools and workflows for sensor applications.
  • Integrate sensors into digital twin environments using OpenUSD.
  • Validate simulated sensor outputs with real-world data.
  • Collaborate with teams to support algorithm development for autonomy.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
  • Paid time off including vacation and holidays.
  • 401(k) savings plans.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Account (HSA).
  • Employee Assistance Program and lifestyle programs.
  • Career development opportunities and tuition reimbursement.
  • Life insurance and disability benefits.
Full Job Description
Career Area:
Technology, Digital and Data

Job Description:

Role Definition

The Sensor Simulation Expert is responsible for the design, development, validation, and continuous improvement of high-fidelity virtual sensor models within the NVIDIA Omniverse ecosystem. This role enables the development of autonomous systems, robotics, digital twins, and virtual validation environments by ensuring simulated sensor outputs accurately represent real-world operating conditions.

The Sensor Simulation Expert serves as the technical authority for virtual sensing technologies, including cameras, LiDAR, radar, GNSS, IMU. Working closely with autonomy, perception, controls, software, and digital twin teams, this individual develops sensor models, validation methodologies, and synthetic data generation pipelines that accelerate product development while reducing reliance on physical testing.

The ideal candidate combines expertise in sensor physics, perception systems, Omniverse development, computer graphics, and simulation technologies to deliver scalable, accurate, and production-ready simulation solutions.

Responsibilities

Sensor Modeling & Simulation
  • Develop and maintain high-fidelity simulation models for cameras, LiDAR, radar, GNSS, IMU.
  • Define sensor fidelity requirements and performance metrics for simulation-based testing.
  • Implement realistic sensor characteristics including noise, distortion, motion blur, occlusions, range limitations, environmental interference, and calibration effects.
  • Create configurable sensor models supporting multiple hardware platforms and use cases.


Omniverse Development
  • Develop Omniverse Kit extensions, tools, and workflows for sensor simulation applications.
  • Leverage OpenUSD and Omniverse technologies to integrate sensors into digital twin environments.
  • Create reusable software frameworks for sensor configuration, management, and deployment.
  • Support enterprise-scale simulation platforms and virtual engineering workflows.


Sensor Validation & Correlation
  • Compare and validate simulated sensor outputs against real-world sensor datasets.
  • Establish validation methodologies and acceptance criteria for sensor fidelity.
  • Identify gaps between simulation and physical measurements and drive model improvements.
  • Develop processes for continuous verification and validation of sensor models.


Autonomy & Perception Support
  • Collaborate with perception and autonomy teams to support algorithm development and testing.
  • Develop simulation scenarios that challenge perception systems under complex operating conditions.
  • Support sensor fusion, localization, object detection, tracking, and environmental perception workflows.
  • Enable repeatable testing for autonomous system validation.


Technical Leadership
  • Serve as the organization's subject matter expert for sensor simulation technologies.
  • Mentor engineers on sensor modeling, simulation, and validation best practices.
  • Provide technical guidance on sensor architecture, simulation platforms, and roadmap planning.
  • Evaluate emerging sensor technologies and simulation methodologies.


Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical discipline.
  • 5+ years of experience in sensor development, simulation, robotics, autonomy, perception systems, or related fields.
  • Strong programming skills in Python and C++.
  • Hands-on experience with NVIDIA Omniverse, Isaac Sim, OpenUSD, or similar simulation platforms.
  • Strong understanding of sensor physics and perception systems.
  • Experience modeling one or more sensor types including camera, LiDAR, radar, GNSS, IMU.
  • Knowledge of robotics, computer vision, autonomy, perception, or machine learning systems.
  • Experience validating simulation results against physical system data.
  • Understanding of synthetic data generation and simulation-based testing methodologies.
  • Knowledge of 3D graphics, rendering concepts, and physically based simulation techniques.


Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree or Ph.D. in Robotics, Computer Vision, Electrical Engineering, Computer Graphics, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field.
  • 8+ years of experience in sensor systems, autonomy, simulation, or perception technologies.
  • Advanced expertise with NVIDIA Omniverse, Isaac Sim, RTX rendering, and OpenUSD.
  • Experience with autonomous vehicles, off-highway equipment, industrial robotics, or intelligent machine systems.
  • Deep knowledge of LiDAR, radar, camera imaging systems, sensor fusion, and localization technologies.
  • Experience developing synthetic data pipelines for AI and machine learning applications.
  • Familiarity with ROS/ROS2, Isaac ROS, and robotics software frameworks.
  • Experience with digital twin development and virtual validation methodologies.
  • Experience supporting enterprise-scale autonomy, digital twin, or simulation programs.


Additional Details:
  • This position requires the candidate to work full-time at the Irving, TX office (Dallas)
  • Domestic relocation assistance is available for this position.
  • Visa sponsorship is available with this position.


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

This position requires working onsite five days a week.

Relocation is available for this position.

Visa sponsorship is available for eligible applicants.

Posting Dates:

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.

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.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with company news, career tips, and industry insights—all from the people who work here. Subscribe to our careers blog and personalize your subscription to receive updates that align with your career interests.

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

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Caterpillar, Inc

More Aerospace & Defense Jobs

Find similar Lead Sensor Simulation Engineer (NVIDIA Omniverse) jobs: