Sr.Test & Validation Engineer (machine controls)

Caterpillar•East Peoria, IL

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Caterpillar EMD’s Peoria Proving Ground division is hiring a Senior Test & Validation Engineer for machine controls in Peoria, Illinois. The Electronic Machine Controls Senior Test Engineer plans, executes, and reports results and recommendations from electronic and electrical system development and validation activities supporting New Product Introduction and Continuous Product Improvement projects. The role supports multiple machine subsystems, including steering, implements, transmission, braking, displays, off-board communications, remote control, and engines. The engineer troubleshoots complex electrical and electronic system issues on heavy equipment; installs, configures, and removes test hardware; supports machine software development; flashes software; and performs machine-level software verification and validation testing. The position analyzes test results, identifies issues, recommends corrective actions and next steps, and documents validation activities and outcomes according to engineering standards and processes. It uses electronic development and diagnostic tools and works with cross-functional product teams on electrical and electronic control systems, wiring modifications, and heavy equipment operation. This position is based onsite in Peoria, Illinois, five days per week (Monday through Friday), and includes 10% domestic and international travel. Domestic relocation assistance and visa sponsorship are not available. The listed summary pay range is $112,710 to $169,060. Compensation and benefits may vary based on individualized factors. Any offer is conditional on successful completion of a drug screen.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in accredited Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
Ability to investigate machine software and controls issues, analyze information from multiple sources, and determine an effective path forward.
Ability to apply critical thinking and engineering judgment to identify root causes, assess technical and safety risks, and support timely issue resolution.
Commitment to a safety-first mindset when working around large equipment.
Ability to communicate machine behavior, software issues, system interactions, technical observations, and findings clearly to engineering teams and other stakeholders.
Knowledge of machine control system architecture, machine software, and electronic control systems.
Ability to use Cat ET and other diagnostic tools for validation and troubleshooting.
Working knowledge of CAN and Ethernet communication networks, including monitoring, analyzing, and interpreting network and system behavior.
Ability to read and interpret electrical and controls schematics and understand system interactions.
Ability to develop, plan, and execute validation activities in alignment with program objectives and timelines.
Strong time management and organizational skills, including the ability to balance multiple priorities and resources.
Ability to identify risks and obstacles early, communicate concerns promptly, and support solutions that maintain progress toward program milestones.
Knowledge of machine software, electronic controls, and system integration, with the ability to evaluate test results and troubleshoot software- and controls-related issues.
Ability to work across software, electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical systems to isolate issues.
Curiosity and willingness to learn new systems, technologies, and tools, and persistence in investigating issues beyond initial symptoms.

Nice To Haves

Experience with electronic development software tools such as CAT Electronic Technician, CadetWin, and Vector CANape.
Ability to communicate technical information effectively with team members, employees in other units, customers, and suppliers.

Responsibilities

Plan, execute, and report results and recommendations from electronic and electrical system development and validation activities.
Support New Product Introduction and Continuous Product Improvement projects across machine subsystems.
Troubleshoot complex electrical and electronic system issues on heavy equipment.
Install, configure, and remove test hardware while supporting machine software development.
Flash software and execute machine-level software validation and verification testing.
Analyze test results, identify issues, and recommend corrective actions and next steps.
Document validation activities and test outcomes using established engineering standards and processes.
Use electronic development and diagnostic tools to support validation and troubleshooting.
Collaborate with cross-functional product teams on control systems, wiring modifications, and heavy equipment operation.
Develop, maintain, and execute validation plans and test cases to verify machine control system functionality, performance, and interaction.
Investigate machine behavior and test data, determine probable root causes, and provide technical feedback to development teams.
Contribute technical input, risk assessment, schedule feedback, and execution strategy to validation planning.