Caterpillar, Inc

Lead Software Engineer (Simulation/Digital Twin)

Caterpillar, Inc • $128K — $208K *
Technical Services
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or related field.
  • 5+ years experience developing digital twins and simulations for robotics, including vehicles and sensors.
  • Proficiency with NVIDIA Omniverse and related tools like Isaac Sim and Cosmo.
  • Familiarity with other simulation tools such as Unity, Unreal Engine, and Dassault 3DEXPERIENCE.
  • Strong programming skills in C++ and Python for simulation logic and behavior modeling.
  • Experience with cloud-based simulation workflows and large-scale data integration.

Responsibilities

  • Develop simulation capabilities for construction machines and sensors in NVIDIA Omniverse.
  • Integrate simulation with existing Caterpillar models and digital twin frameworks.
  • Create high-fidelity 3D models and environments using Omniverse and USD.
  • Collaborate with robotics teams to enhance simulation platforms.
  • Contribute to toolchain and pipeline design for scripting and testing.
  • Ensure performance optimization of complex simulations and workflows.
  • Evaluate new tools to enhance simulation and digital twin capabilities.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits.*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.).*
  • 401(k) savings plans.*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA).*
  • Career Development.*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts.*
  • Tuition Reimbursement.*
  • Life Insurance.*
  • Disability benefits.*
  • Parental leave.*
  • Adoption benefits.*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs.*
  • Employee Assistance Program.*
Full Job Description

Career Area:

Technology, Digital and Data

Job Description:

Role Definition:

The Simulation & Digital Twin Engineer will design, develop, and integrate simulation capabilities that support Caterpillar’s next‑generation of robotics. This role combines simulation engineering, real‑time visualization, and 3D scene‑building using NVIDIA Omniverse and modern C++/Python toolchains.  This is a senior hands-on role which will plan, architect and lead and mentor.


Responsibilities

  • Develop simulation for construction machines, jobsites and sensors (Camera, LIDAR, RADAR etc.) in NVIDIA Omniverse. 
  • Integrate simulation components with current Caterpillar simulation models, data systems, and digital twin frameworks.
  • Create high‑fidelity 3D models, scenes, and environments using NVIDIA Omniverse, USD, and Omniverse Kit‑based pipelines.
  • Collaborate with the simulation and robotics teams to define and implement a simulation Omniverse based platform with existing simulation tools.
  • Contribute to toolchain and pipeline design, including scripting utilities, automated test frameworks, and modular code libraries.
  • Develop interfaces that connect simulations to real‑time visualization, dashboards, and operator‑focused experiences.
  • Ensure performance optimization for large‑scale scenes, complex mechanical models, and multi‑machine workflows.
  • Develop and execute model validation and verification plans, ensuring digital twins are accurate and numerically stable.
  • Active reduce the real to sim gap by comparing simulation outputs to real machine test data, telematics, and historical performance metrics.
  • Evaluate emerging tools and frameworks to expand Caterpillar’s simulation and digital‑twin capabilities.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field.
  • Experience developing digital twins and simulations to support robotics.  This includes machine, vehicle and/or sensor simulation. (ideally 5+ years)
  • Experience with NVIDIA Omniverse, Isaac Sim, Cosmo,  NVIDIA WARP, Newton, and Omniverse‑based pipeline development.
  • Knowledge of other digital‑twin and real‑time simulation tools, such as CARLA, Unity, Unreal Engine, Siemens NX/Teamcenter/Plant Simulation, Dassault 3DEXPERIENCE, Ansys Twin Builder etc.
  • Strong hands‑on programming skills in C++ and Python for simulation logic, behavior modeling, and tooling.
  • Experience with cloud‑based simulation workflows, large‑scale data integration, or distributed simulation pipelines.


 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posting Dates:

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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