Caterpillar, Inc

Machine Controls Engineer

Caterpillar, Inc$97K — $146K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5-7 years in control systems and software requirements development
  • Strong systems engineering knowledge in engines, powertrain, or hydraulics
  • Proficient in business process improvement and cross-functional team leadership
  • Exceptional accuracy and attention to detail in tasks
  • Strong analytical skills with proven problem-solving capability
  • Effective communication of technical concepts across teams
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field

Responsibilities

  • Analyze machine operations and customer applications to define control strategies
  • Develop simulations to optimize configurations and control logic
  • Influence electronic architecture decisions for product planning
  • Ensure control software meets Functional Safety standards
  • Provide control requirements to subsystem teams for integration
  • Lead validation efforts using virtual and hardware-in-the-loop methodologies
  • Validate machine controls through field tests and develop risk mitigation plans

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)
  • 401(k) savings plans
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Health Lifestyle Programs
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Career Development opportunities
  • Incentive bonus programs
  • Disability benefits
  • Tuition reimbursement
Full Job Description
Career Area:
Engineering

Job Description:

Caterpillar's Resource Industries Group is offering an opportunity to lead machine controls development for our flagship Large Mining Truck (LMT) product line. This is more than a job. It's a chance to engineer the next generation of intelligent, high-performance machines that power industries around the world.

With Caterpillar's renewed focus on delivering industry-leading technologies that improve safety, productivity, and efficiency, this role is critical to the successful development and implementation of key machine technologies across multiple programs. The work you lead will help shape the future of our products and drive meaningful value for customers around the globe

What You'll Do:
  • Impact: Analyze real-world machine operations and customer applications to define control strategies that elevate performance, efficiency, and operator experience.
  • Customer Focus: Develop advanced simulations and trade-off analyses to optimize configurations and control logic, leveraging expertise across Caterpillar.
  • Architect the System: Influence electronic architecture decisions and contribute to long-term product planning through (MGPP) Multi Generation Product/Process Planning development.
  • Safety & Quality: Ensure control software meets rigorous Functional Safety standards and supports condition monitoring for customers and dealers.
  • Collaborate Across Systems: Provide detailed control requirements to subsystem teams for seamless integration.
  • Validation: Lead validation efforts using Virtual Product Development, Software-in-the-Loop, and Hardware-in-the-Loop methodologies.
  • Field-Test: Validate machine controls at proving grounds and customer sites and develop risk mitigation plans for pilot machines.
  • Drive New Tech: Initiate and support New Technology Introduction (NTI) programs that shape the future of Caterpillar's product strategy.


What Skills You Will Have:

Technical Excellence: Experience in control systems and software requirements development, combined with strong systems engineering knowledge across areas such as (Engines, Powertrain, Hydraulics, etc.)

Process Management: Knowledge of business process improvement tools and techniques; ability to understand, monitor, update, control, or enhance existing business or work processes. Prior experience leading cross-functional teams in matrix organization

Accuracy and Attention to Detail: Understanding the necessity and value of accuracy; ability to complete tasks with high levels of precision.

Analytical Thinking: Strong analytical skills with demonstrated problem-solving ability.

Effective Communications: Ability to communicate technical information effectively with team members and others in a workgroup, as well as employees in other business units, customers, and suppliers. Demonstrated record of being a self-starter with strong technical leadership and presentation skills.

Education Requirement: Bachelor's degree in engineering or equivalent education.

Top Candidates Will Also Have:

Machine controls requirements development and validation experience.

Machine/Vehicle performance requirements development and validation experience.

Caterpillar Off-Highway and Large Mining Trucks experience.

Hands on testing and data collection experience.

Machine performance and controls simulation experience.

Experience with Matlab, Simulink, Python, Multibody simulation tools (Caterpillar Dyansty)

Additional Information:

The primary work location for this role is Tucson, AZ, with a requirement to work on-site full-time at a Caterpillar facility.

This position may require 5 - 10 % travel.

Domestic relocation assistance is available.

Visa sponsorship, international assignments, or payroll transfers are not available for this role.

Posting Date: 8/11/2026 - 8/25/2026

Summary Pay Range:

$97,530.00 - $146,290.00

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.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates:

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

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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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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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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