Principal Digital Twin Engineer

Job description

Career Area

Technology, Digital and Data Job Description: Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc. When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do – but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here – we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live.

Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it. Help Build the Future of Caterpillar – Be Part of What’s Next in Autonomous Construction Sites At Caterpillar, technology always has a purpose, which is to solve our customers’ toughest challenges. Construction autonomy is one of the most complex challenges in applied AI, and at Caterpillar, advancements in physical AI, simulation, sensing, and edge computing are turning things that once felt impossible—intelligent machines operating in dynamic jobsites—into reality.

Role Definition

The Digital Twin & Simulation Principal will lead the strategy, design, and implementation of high‑fidelity digital twins for machines, job sites, and end‑to‑end workflows supporting automation and robotics.

Responsibilities

Work with senior management to define the long‑term vision, for simulation supporting automation and robotics. Partner with leadership to establish a multi‑year simulation and digital twin roadmap, supporting automation and robotics. Translate Business and autonomy requirements into simulation solutions. Identifying where simulations and digital twins can support robotics. Create detailed system level architecture deliverables in partnership with the chief architect and robotics team.

Determine the technologies, platforms, and integration patterns required to support simulation capabilities. Work closely with engineering, autonomy, controls, software, product teams, and enterprise data groups to ensure simulation solutions meet business outcomes and integrate seamlessly with existing systems. Assess current simulation assets across Caterpillar and define the strategy to integrate, extend, or consolidate them into a cohesive digital ecosystem supporting robotics.

Oversee model validation, correlation with physical test data, and governance processes so digital twins remain accurate.

Qualifications

Strong expertise in system‑level simulation and digital twin technologies accompanied with a background in robotics. Background in construction, mining automation and robotics will be preferred. Knowledge of information architecture for simulation data, and perception engineering. Deep expertise in NVIDIA Omniverse for building digital twins supporting robotics. Experience architecting or integrating modeling ecosystems with tools such as CARLA, Dynasty, Simulink/Modelica, AMESim, ANSYS, Adams, GT‑Suite, Unity/Unreal, or robotics/automation frameworks.

Ability to evaluate emerging technologies and strategically recommend adoption paths for simulation and robotics. Deep understanding of simulation architecture, model governance, verification/validation practices, and integration of simulations with real‑time data sources. Proven ability to work with senior management to establish vision, strategy, and multi‑year roadmaps. Excellent communication skills for translating complex technical concepts into actionable business insights.

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, or related discipline (Master’s or PhD preferred). Ideally 10+ years in simulation, robotics or autonomy—with direct experience deploying Omniverse‑based digital twins strongly preferred.

Summary

Pay Range: $159,120.00 - $258,570.00 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: Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply. Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community .