Development Test Technician
About the role
Caterpillar’s Resource Industries Division is seeking a Development Test Technician to support technical investigations, testing, and validation of current and future products, components, materials, and processes. In this role, you will apply hands-on technical skills to support instrumentation, data acquisition, and measurement systems for machine testing and validation.
Responsibilities
Your key responsibilities will include:
- Supporting engineering objectives by following engineering instructions to install measurement equipment on machines, components, and test systems
- Assisting engineers with data collection, analysis, and evaluation activities
- Providing observations and feedback to support product and process improvements
- Supporting instrumentation setup and ensuring accurate data collection
- Maintaining test records in accordance with established procedures (ISO17025 awareness preferred)
- Assisting with setup and teardown of test equipment and systems
- Helping identify issues with components, systems, or test setups during testing
- Gathering data and providing input to support root cause analysis
- Working closely with engineers, mechanics, and other technicians
- Communicating effectively on test setups, activities, and results
- Supporting team objectives and contributing to a positive and safe work environment
Requirements
To be successful in this role, you will need:
- Working safely: following safety policies, working effectively around heavy equipment, and using required PPE
- Instrumentation and data acquisition skills (basic to intermediate): familiarity with sensors such as transducers and strain gages, and exposure to data acquisition systems in lab or field environments
- Effective communication: able to share test results, observations, and updates clearly with team members
- Standard operating procedures: following defined procedures and accurately documenting test activities
- Critical thinking: applying basic problem-solving skills during testing and data collection
- Troubleshooting: assisting in identifying irregularities in test setups or results and supporting resolution efforts
Qualifications
Top candidates will also have:
- Experience supporting testing, technical, or mechanical work environments
- Ability to work in lab, field, and outdoor proving ground conditions
- Technical associate degree or equivalent hands-on experience
- 1–3 years of experience with instrumentation, testing, or related work
- Exposure to data acquisition systems (e.g., Somat, Dewesoft)
- Experience working on or around heavy equipment
Benefits
Caterpillar offers a range of benefits, including:
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits
- Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)
- 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
Pay
The pay range for this role is $26.00 - $39.00 per hour. Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience.
Schedule
The primary work location is Tucson Proving Ground – Green Valley, AZ (full-time onsite). This position may require up to 10% travel.