2026 Entry Level Project Applications Engineer

Solar Turbines•San Diego, CA

2d•$72,360 - $108,540•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. Project Applications Engineers (PAE) and Systems Analysis Engineers (SAE) assist in the direction of Solar’s internal activities associated with supporting the sale of new turbomachinery packages for the Oil and Gas market. The position involves working with senior applications engineers, field sales and a wide cross section of other departments to plan, develop, and execute technical and commercial strategies to successfully compete for new business. The training plan includes: Spending approximately 6 months in systems analysis learning to analyze customer specification, application requirements, and process gas properties for Oil and Gas upstream and midstream compression applications. Understanding process requirements for typical oil and gas upstream and midstream applications. Provide compressor set selections and equipment performance predictions by applying state of the art programs and a good overall knowledge of the capabilities and limitations of Solar's turbomachinery products; compressor set selections involve the proper selection of compressor models and Solar standard impellers to meet operating conditions defined, based on the understanding of compressor aerodynamics and thermodynamics. Additional time in other departments will also be spent to understand the functions of the groups that a PAE/SAE interfaces with on a regular basis.

Requirements

Currently in the process of receiving or have already received a B.S. or higher in Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical Engineering, or related degree.
2.8 GPA or higher on a 4.0 scale.
0-3 years of relevant experience.

Nice To Haves

Internship(s) in an engineering role.
Proficiency in Excel, macros programming languages and functions.
Demonstrated communication skills (verbal and written).
Sense of urgency and organizational skills to work with multiple projects and competing priorities.
Ability to effectively communicate with internal and external customers, with proficiency in communicating technical information.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and complete assigned tasks in a timely manner.

Responsibilities

Assisting with the review of customer specifications
Selection and optimization of Solar’s turbomachinery equipment offering
Pricing custom features
Proposal preparation
Turning the job over to business management with good technical and commercial definition so that it can be executed efficiently.