Electronic Components Engineering Specialist

Caterpillar•Dayton, OH

2d•Onsite

About The Position

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. CTCT develops advanced machine control, guidance, and positioning systems for the heavy construction, earthmoving, and mining industries. By combining Trimble's precision positioning technologies (like GNSS/GPS, lasers, optics, and sonics) with Caterpillar’s heavy machinery expertise, CTCT builds software and hardware that automates and optimizes equipment operations. The core focus of CTCT is Grade Control Solutions (such as the Cat Grade 3D and Trimble Earthworks platforms). These systems give machine operators precise, real-time vertical and horizontal guidance inside the cab, allowing bulldozers, excavators, scrapers, and graders to cut, fill, and level earth to exact 3D design specifications.

Requirements

Understanding of effective communication concepts, tools and techniques; ability to effectively transmit, receive, and accurately interpret ideas, information, and needs through the application of appropriate communication behaviors.
Knowledge of a given technology and various application methods; ability to develop and provide solutions to significant technical challenges.
Knowledge of effective project management strategies and tactics; ability to plan, organize, monitor, and control projects, ensuring efficient utilization of technical and administrative resources to achieve project objectives.
Knowledge of electronics engineering; ability to design, test and manufacture electronic circuits, components and devices.
Knowledge of and the ability to utilize design tools (e.g. CAD) to convert customer and market requirements into a product design.
Knowledge of reliability management; ability to utilize various tools, techniques, methodologies and metrics to meet and manage hardware product performance and reliability objectives.
Knowledge of mechanical engineering processes, techniques and methods; ability to design and implement machines and other mechanical devices that safely realize a desired objective or invention.
Knowledge of processes and methods to effectively manage business relationships and transactions with suppliers of raw materials or product components; ability to apply related knowledge, experience and skills into real practice.
Solid exposure to electronic circuit design, research, and debugging for embedded systems and sensors.
Experienced with Orcad and Altium or similar technologies, along with circuit design and testing experience.
Robust expertise in analog and exposure to digital electronic circuit design, component research, and risk mitigation strategies.
Strong communicator capable of writing technical specifications and presenting to customers and cross-functional stakeholders.
Proficiency in Matlab and SPICE (PSpice) simulation software, alongside familiarity with C and C++ firmware development.
Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (MSEE) or a Bachelor’s Degree (BSEE) with equivalent experience.

Nice To Haves

You have a proven track record working with Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs), specifically with accelerometers and gyroscopes.
You have worked with Machine Control Systems.
Experience using Agile PLM and Oracle ERP systems.
Advanced proficiency in MS Office or Google Workspace for BOM creation, statistical data analysis, and technical report writing.
You have experience designing Functional Safety products or transferable experience.

Responsibilities

Architect and implement PCB-level sensor interface circuitry, including power regulation, EMI shielding, and noise isolation tailored for harsh environments.
Select, evaluate, and qualify IMU hardware components (accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers) from external vendors against strict performance criteria (bias stability, noise density, vibration tolerance).
Support the development of signal conditioning, filtering (Kalman, complementary, Madgwick), and sensor fusion middleware to deliver accurate orientation data.
Design and comprehensive validation test plans covering static/dynamic accuracy, thermal cycling, vibration endurance, and environmental testing.
Utilize simulation and analysis tools to evaluate design performance and drive iterative improvements.
Define factory and in-field calibration procedures. Generate Engineering Change Notices (ECNs) and design production-level test fixtures to support the successful transition of products to manufacturing.
Assume a leadership role in resolving complex technical problems. Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.
Ensure designs comply with Functional Safety standards ISO 19014 and IEC 65108, CE/FCC/IC certifications, and OEM-specific guidelines. Support safety analysis such as FMEA
Produce and maintain high-quality circuit schematics, Bills of Materials (BOM), wiring harness specifications, and test reports.
Lead and contribute to internal design reviews and present technical updates, program status, and design concepts to customers and cross-functional stakeholders.