Machine Performance & Controls Engineering specialist

Job description

Career Area

Engineering 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. Building Construction Products (BCP) division at Caterpillar is seeking a highly motivated and innovative Control Systems Engineering Specialist to join the Small Wheel Loaders (SWL) team. This role is based at our Clayton Machine Design Center (CMDC), where we design, develop, and support Caterpillar’s industry-leading construction equipment. In this role you will collaborate with cross-functional teams to define requirements, integration of mechanical, hydraulic, and electronic systems to enhance machine performance, operator experience, and system connectivity.

This role plays a critical part in supporting SWL New Product Introduction (NPI), Continuous Product Improvement (CPI), and New Technology Introduction (NTI) initiatives.

What You Will Do

Support the definition, execution, and delivery of various control systems and user interface/experience features to meet performance requirements for New Product Introductions (NPI) and product lifecycle support for SWL. Collaborate with engine, hydraulic, mechanical, and software engineering teams to optimize system performance and reliability of Small Wheel loaders Translate machine-level functional requirements into detailed software and hardware specifications.

Perform on-machine evaluation of controls, automation, and user interface solutions to ensure feasibility and performance targets are met. Drive continuous improvement in control system architecture, diagnostics, and operator interface. Stay current with emerging technologies in autonomy, electrification, connectivity, and machine automation.

What You Have (Basic Qualifications)

Degree requirement: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Computer Science (Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Robotics, or related field preferred).

Technical Troubleshooting

Extensive experience in controls engineering, preferably in off-highway, construction, mining, or automotive equipment. Strong understanding of hydraulic systems, electronic control modules, and embedded software development.

Communicating Complex Concepts

Must have strong problem-solving and analytical skills with the ability to communicate technical information effectively to a culturally diverse work group.

Analytical Thinking

Ability to identify critical gaps, next actions, and act to resolve issues with minimal oversight. An emphasis on initiative, data analysis, and strong technical insight.

Decision-Making and Critical Thinking

Ability to evaluate alternatives with multiple stakeholders, distinguish between the technical content and organizational context of a decision, anticipate risks, and make timely, informed recommendations.

Product Development

Knowledge of product-development methodologies and the associated requirements, design, integration, testing, production, and support activities needed to deliver new or enhanced products.

Top Candidates Will Have

Proven experience with on-machine tuning of complex control and hydraulic systems, including system-level ownership of requirements, performance, and customer outcomes. Experience translating customer, competitive, field, and engineering insights into successful product improvements. Demonstrated success leading complex technology, performance, or integration projects from concept through production by communicating effectively, building alignment, and influencing stakeholders across engineering, product, commercial, and manufacturing organizations.

Software and controls design experience, including the ability to interpret and evaluate implementations developed in MATLAB, C, and Simulink. Previous experience with hydraulic system design or testing. Experience using Vector CANape to adjust control parameters and operating construction machines to validate the resulting machine behavior. Experience with ADAS systems or Machine collision mitigation system development is a plus Ability to facilitate collaboration across global teams and resolve complex technical issues.

Additional Info

Office Model: This position requires a 5-day-a-week in-office schedule.

Travel

5–10% domestic and international travel expected.

Relocation

Domestic relocation assistance available for qualified candidates.

Visa Sponsorship

Not available.

Summary

Pay Range: $128,470.00 - $192,710.00 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 not available for this position.

Posting Dates

November 5, 2026 - November 19, 2026 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 .