Electronic Controls & Software Engineering Graduate

Caterpillar; Peterborough; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global manufacturer of heavy equipment is seeking a Controls/Software Development Engineer to join its team in Peterborough, UK. This role involves developing software for advanced control systems in diesel engines and hybrid power systems, implementing cutting-edge technology to enhance connectivity and predictive maintenance. Graduates passionate about technology and solving complex challenges are encouraged to apply. Opportunities for development and mentorship will be provided, ensuring a successful start to your career.

Benefits

£1500 Sign on Bonus

10% Annual Bonus

Share Scheme

Pension

Flexible working

25 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Qualifications

• On target to achieve a minimum of 2:2 honours degree level in Control Systems, Mechatronics, Robotics, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering or Mechanical Engineering.
• Passion for using technology to solve complex problems using logic, reasoning, coding, and controls theory.

Responsibilities

• Develop embedded control strategies and software for diesel engines and hybrid power systems.
• Contribute to digital integration, telematics, and condition monitoring solutions.

Job description

Career Area

Students and Graduates

Job Description

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.

Discipline

Caterpillar Technology – Electronic Controls & Software

Location

Peterborough, UK

Salary

£35,000, £1500 Sign on Bonus, 10% Annual Bonus, Share Scheme, Pension, Flexible working, and 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)

We currently have exciting opportunities for Graduates to join Caterpillar! We are looking for talented, ambitious people from various backgrounds who are interested in setting out on the road to success and in return, we will provide you the training, mentoring, and support you need to have a successful career at Caterpillar.

What do we do?

Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines, and diesel-electric locomotives. Since 1925, we’ve been driving sustainable progress and helping customers build a better world through innovative products and services. Throughout the product life cycle, we offer services built on cutting‑edge technology and decades of product expertise. These products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value to help our customers succeed.

We have a clear vision to be the global leader in providing customer value in the markets in which we operate. Our core values Integrity, Excellence, Teamwork, Commitment and Sustainability are key to our success.

CAT Technology – Driving Innovation Across Caterpillar

Caterpillar Technology leads the development of advanced electronics and control systems that power a wide range of Caterpillar products globally. Our solutions span diesel engines, hybrid and full electric systems development and integrated machine controls, enabling superior performance, efficiency, and sustainability. We combine expertise in electronics, software, and digital technologies to deliver innovations that optimise fuel usage, reduce emissions, and provide seamless connectivity through telematics and condition monitoring. Our technologies support diverse applications—from construction and mining to power generation and industrial sectors—ensuring reliability and productivity in the most demanding environments.

Focus Area – Power Systems Controls and Software Development

Based in Peterborough, the Caterpillar Technology UK team offers some of the most dynamic and forward‑thinking engineering opportunities within Caterpillar. We are seeking a Controls/Software Development Engineer to join our Controls and Software team. This team develops embedded control strategies and software for diesel engines and hybrid power systems, managing critical functions such as air and fuel delivery, power response, and aftertreatment performance. In addition to core engine control, you will contribute to digital integration, telematics, and condition monitoring solutions that enhance connectivity and predictive maintenance. Our work spans four engine platforms used in hundreds of applications worldwide, and we collaborate closely with the wider IPSD‑M Engine division to deliver hundreds of application optimised ‘flashfiles’ (compiled software) through our ‘software factory’ annually—ensuring robust functionality, safety, and efficiency across Caterpillar’s product portfolio.

Diversity at Caterpillar

When we leverage our people's experiences, backgrounds, and cultures in an inclusive environment, we enable every individual to achieve their full potential, which drives business success. We are proud to be active partners with both the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) & Women's Engineering Society (WES). We also have numerous well‑supported employee resource groups. Caterpillar is an equal‑opportunity employer, and we welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds.

What experiences can we offer you?

As an equal‑opportunity employer, we value diversity at Caterpillar and believe the more experience you can gain early in your career the further you can go. You will have the opportunity to work and collaborate with people in Caterpillar facilities worldwide and we are looking for you to bring fresh, innovative ideas to solve complex technical problems. You will be a fully involved team member with responsibility and accountability for key deliverables. That said, you will be given all the support you require to be successful.

You’ll have the additional benefit of a workplace mentor; this could be your manager or a technical expert who will support you throughout your time at Caterpillar and help you gain the professional development and skills you need to be set up for success!

Areas of exposure may include, but are not limited to:

• Control system modelling and analysis
• Embedded software design and development
• Systems engineering and controls architecture
• Controls verification and Validation
• Process and tool‑chain automation

What happens after the graduate scheme?

Upon successful completion of the scheme, you will progress into a key role where you will directly contribute to the operational and project activity that is at the heart of our business. We will provide you with the training and support you need to have a successful career at Caterpillar, in a global organisation there are so many possibilities!

Who are we looking for?

As the type of roles within our business are becoming more diverse, we are looking for people who are open‑minded, excellent problem solvers and who have an ability to learn quickly. You will be motivated, hard‑working, and will embrace change. In return for your dedication and hard work, you will be provided with excellent career opportunities and strong support for your personal and career development to pursue a career within Caterpillar.

• Applicants will be on target to achieve a minimum of 2:2 honours degree level in a relevant discipline: Control Systems, Mechatronics, Robotics, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering or Mechanical Engineering
• Applicants must have a passion for using technology to solve complex problems; using logic, reasoning, coding (traditional or model‑based) and controls theory to address complex engineering problems

You will also require excellent interpersonal and communication skills to interact regularly with customers and colleagues within the Caterpillar global team. Travel to customer sites or global facilities may be required.

Recruitment Process Guidelines

Here is a brief overview of what you can expect when applying to our Early Career roles…

Online Application

The first stage of the process is to complete the online application and attach your CV, this must be done before the closing date of the role that you're applying for. Once we reach the close date, we will begin reviewing all our applications, this may take a little while and we will contact you as soon as possible to let you know if you have been successful in moving forward to the next stage.

Stage one – Video Interview

If selected, you will be invited to complete a user‑friendly video interview which will then be reviewed by the Hiring Team. At this stage, if you are successful, you will be invited to attend an Assessment Centre which we anticipate will be held in March 2026. We would also recommend that you check your spam emails and your Workday account for updates.

Stage two - Assessment Centre

The Assessment Centre Day will look at a range of behaviours such as teamwork, decision‑making, communication, and problem‑solving. We aim to make these days fun, inclusive and as relaxed as possible.

Stage three – Offer

After the Assessment Centre, the Caterpillar team will review the feedback and extend offers to our preferred candidates, we aim to do this as quickly as possible. Graduates will start on 7th September 2026. We look forward to receiving your application to join Caterpillar!

NOTE

• Only one application is required, please do not apply for multiple roles. You may be given the opportunity of being considered for other roles/locations at a later stage
• The panel cannot make assumptions when shortlisting therefore please demonstrate your qualifications and experience on your CV relevant to the criteria outlined.
• Depending on the volume of applications received, the selection criteria may be refined to support the shortlisting process. This may also include an adjustment to the application deadline.
• This position requires working onsite five days a week.

Posting Dates

December 24, 2025 - January 21, 2026

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply

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