Associate Controls Engineer - Entry Level 2026

Caterpillar•San Diego, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

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. Solar Turbines Incorporated, headquartered in San Diego, California, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc. Solar manufactures the world’s most widely used family of mid-sized industrial gas turbines, ranging from 1 to 23 megawatts. Solar is a leading provider of energy solutions, featuring an extensive line of gas turbine-powered compressor sets.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Engineering
GPA 2.8 or above
Educational and/or experience-based exposure to electrical equipment design and control software for PLC applications.

Nice To Haves

Direct experience with programming PLCs and Windows-based Human Machine Interface (HMI) systems is a plus.
Knowledge of Turbomachinery Electrical Loop Schematics, Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) and Control Systems is highly desired.

Responsibilities

Design of electrical hardware and control systems for gas turbines, power generators, natural gas compressors, and methane emissions reduction systems.
Primary deliverables include electrical schematic drawings and control software (ladder logic) for programmable logic controllers (PLCs).
Initial accountabilities may include Software Test whereby candidate would be exposed to how the system operates via simulation software.
Coordinating with various organizations within Solar Turbines, including direct interface with external customers.
Collaborating in an Engineering Value Stream with up to 10 other engineering disciplines.
Supporting field personnel during commissioning and the resolution of safety critical risk assessments.
Opportunities to travel to support Customer Design Review meetings, Hazard and Operability Study (HAZOP) meetings, and support installed equipment in the Field.