R & D Engineering Specialist

About the Role

Caterpillar’s Earthmoving Division is seeking a Machine Development Lead R & D Engineer to lead a team of multi-disciplinary test engineers developing and validating medium tractor products throughout NPI programs at the Peoria Proving Ground in Washington, IL. In this highly visible role, you will ensure Caterpillar machines meet end-user quality expectations by providing technical leadership and guiding validation activities at the machine, system, and component levels. You will play a key role in advancing small and medium track-type tractor validation earlier in the NPI lifecycle through strong program planning and execution.

Responsibilities

• Build relationships by strengthening collaboration between Product Groups, Process Partners, and Validation teams while reinforcing Validation as a critical partner in product development and safety.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of test engineers.
• Maintain and improve standard test procedures to ensure consistency and quality.
• Develop and maintain validation strategies and activity plans in partnership with system and global machine development teams.
• Track and communicate NPI program health, risks, and progress.
• Support the team through direct involvement in machine testing from a customer perspective.
• Lead process improvements and facility-related projects.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

• Directly influence the next generation of machines and technology platforms.
• Expand expertise in advanced systems and large-scale product development.
• Collaborate with a highly skilled and supportive team.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Agricultural Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Strong analytical thinking and decision-making skills.
• Experience using Microsoft tools for automation and data analysis.
• Understanding of Lean principles and continuous improvement.
• Experience with tools such as DeweSoft, TCE, DATK, SuperComm2, CAT ET, and machine troubleshooting.
• Background in product development, machine testing, mining, or electrical/electronic systems.
• Ability to work in varied indoor/outdoor conditions (hot, cold, dusty).
• Ability to safely operate equipment after training.

Skills

• Analytical Thinking: Knowledge of techniques and tools that promote effective analysis; ability to determine the root cause of organizational problems and create alternative solutions.
• Decision Making and Critical Thinking: Knowledge of the decision-making process and associated tools and techniques; ability to accurately analyze situations and reach productive decisions based on informed judgment.
• Effective Communications: Understanding of effective communication concepts, tools, and techniques; ability to effectively transmit, receive, and accurately interpret ideas, information, and needs.
• Technical Excellence: Knowledge of a given technology and various application methods; ability to develop and provide solutions to significant technical challenges.
• Project Management: Knowledge of effective project management strategies and tactics; ability to plan, organize, monitor, and control projects, ensuring efficient utilization of technical and administrative resources.
• Product Testing: Knowledge of product testing approaches, techniques, and tools; ability to design, plan, and execute testing strategies and tactics to ensure product quality at all stages of manufacturing.
• Troubleshooting Technical Problems: Knowledge of troubleshooting approaches, tools, and techniques; ability to anticipate, detect, and resolve technical problems in a manufacturing or product development environment.

Benefits

• 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

Summary pay range: $128,470.00 - $192,710.00. Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience.

Schedule

• This position requires working onsite five days a week (Monday to Friday).
• Travel: up to 10% domestic and international.

Work location: Peoria Proving Ground, Washington, IL. Domestic relocation assistance is not available for this role. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.