Performance/Simulation/Application Engineering Specialist
About The Position
The Large Power Systems Division (LPSD), part of Caterpillar’s Power & Energy segment, designs and manufactures large diesel and natural gas engines, powertrains, and key engine systems for power generation, industrial, marine, oil and gas, rail, services, and Cat machine applications. The Spark Ignited Performance group is seeking a technical lead to guide the performance team in developing and validating spark-ignited engines and generating engine calibration and certification. The role supports concept evaluation, recipe selection, performance improvements, and field data analysis for early issue detection and resolution. It requires a strong background in engine performance and validation, experience with embedded control systems, and emissions certification for diesel, spark-ignited, or dual-fuel engines. The specialist will work with the performance team across the NPI and NTI product development cycle, including design, development, product quality, and validation. The position is based onsite in Lafayette, Indiana, five days per week, and may require less than 10% travel. Domestic relocation assistance is available; visa sponsorship is not available. The position is scheduled to close on November 2, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in an accredited engineering field.
- At least 8 years of relevant engineering work experience developing engine systems.
- Understanding of spark-ignited engine systems and applications.
- Strong background in engine simulation and analysis, including proficiency with MATLAB Simulink and National Instruments tools.
- Good teamwork, communication, analysis, and troubleshooting skills.
- Ability to communicate complex and nuanced technical information to broad audiences and use different leadership styles to gain engagement and agreement on a path forward.
- Self-starter who is highly motivated, able to learn at an accelerated pace, and willing to put in the time to get the job done.
- Focus on continuous improvement of processes, methods, and tools related to engine performance and validation.
Nice To Haves
- Three years specifically in the spark-ignited engine space.
- Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering, Engine Performance, or Controls.
- Previous experience developing spark-ignited or dual-fuel engines.
- Experience with electric power, oil and gas, or marine engine applications.
Responsibilities
- Provide technical leadership and guidance to the spark-ignited performance team.
- Coach the performance team.
- Coordinate with the Emissions Regulations and Compliance team on new software and program requests, including certification documentation, data files, and AECD documents.
- Support and participate in technology development programs originating from research, NTI, or other Energy & Transportation teams, representing performance perspectives.
- Communicate results to customers, suppliers, team members, and other business units.
- Provide technical support and input to help close product issues through the NPI and CPI processes.
- Support concept evaluation, recipe selection, performance improvement efforts, and field data analysis for early issue detection and resolution.
- Participate in product development activities spanning design, development, product quality, and validation.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
- Paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and volunteer time.
- 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.
- Domestic relocation assistance.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
