Performance and Controls Engineering Specialist

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 Performance and Controls 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 : 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.

Embedded Systems : Knowledge of embedded systems and their applications; ability to develop embedded systems with varying levels of complexity to control the operations of the machine it is embedded within.

Top Candidates Will Have :

Master's degree in Engineering or related discipline.

Experience with model-based design tools (e.g., MATLAB / Simulink).

Hands-on experience in implementing control algorithms and integrating subsystems in wheel loader applications

Proficiency in programming languages and analytical tools (e.g., Python).

Familiarity with CAN-based communication protocols (e.g., J1939).

Experience in test engineering and system validation for automotive or construction equipment.

Ability to facilitate collaboration across global teams and resolve complex technical issues.

Deep expertise in machine power system performance (Engine, Transmission, Hydraulics), control system tuning and performance validation or machine test & validation experience in automotive or construction equipment

Additional Info :

Office Model : This position requires the employee to work a 5-day-a-week schedule in the office.

Travel : 5-10% domestic and international travel expected.

Relocation : Domestic relocation assistance is available for qualified candidates.

Visa Sponsorship : Not available.

ISE : Not available.

Summary Pay Range :

$126,000.00 - $189,000.00

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. This employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as, H, L, TN, F, J, E, O. As a global company, Caterpillar offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S which can be found through our employment website at www.caterpillar.com / careers.

Posting Dates :

November 3, 2025 - November 10, 2025

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.

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