Automation & Controls Engineer - Critical Power Systems (Remote)

Caterpillar; Alabama; Remote; USD 89,000 - 134,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Phone allowance

Company vehicle provided

Job summary

Caterpillar, a global leader in heavy equipment, seeks an Electrical/Automation engineer to design, develop and implement generator control switchgear systems in the Electric Power Division. You will deliver automation and control solutions for complex power systems and lead retrofit and new projects from concept to commissioning.

You will work independently and with teams to ensure high-quality outcomes, convert legacy PLC programs, and support field performance while collaborating with CAD and

Qualifications

• Customer-focused mindset aligning solutions to client needs.
• Experience with automation and controls including PLC-based systems.
• Ability to read electrical schematics and blueprints.

Responsibilities

• Identify retrofit opportunities, define project scope and support proposal development.
• Execute design, programming, testing, and commissioning of PLC-based control systems.
• Convert legacy PLC programs to current platforms and validate performance.
• Develop and modify PLC and HMI applications using standard templates.
• Collaborate with CAD designers to produce wiring and assembly drawings.
• Perform technical risk assessment and support field performance of projects.
• Provide technical support to sales and product support centers, including escalation.
• Submit project documentation, reports, and expenses timely.
• Train and support technicians, customers, and internal teams on maintenance and operation.

Skills

Customer focus

Service excellence

Technical excellence

Cross-functional collaboration

Power systems knowledge

Education

Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering or related field

Tools

PLC platforms (Rockwell/AB, Schneider/Modicon, Siemens, GE)

HMI systems (FactoryTalk, Siemens, Vijeo, iFix, Wonderware)

Job description

Career Area:

Product Support

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.

Job Summary:

Join Caterpillar’s Electric Power Division supporting the design, development, and implementation of generator control switchgear systems. In this role, you will deliver automation and control solutions for complex power systems, working both independently and collaboratively to execute retrofit and new system projects from concept through commissioning.

What You Will Do:

• Identify retrofit opportunities, define project scope, and support proposal development with Dealer and Factory teams
• Execute design, programming, testing, and commissioning of low- and medium-voltage generator paralleling control systems
• Convert legacy PLC programs to current platforms and validate performance
• Develop and modify PLC and HMI applications using standard templates
• Partner with CAD designers to produce wiring and assembly drawings
• Perform technical risk assessment and support field performance of assigned projects
• Provide technical support to AES Sales and Product Support Center teams, including escalation support
• Submit project documentation, reports, and expenses in a timely manner
• Train and support technicians, customers, and internal teams on maintenance, troubleshooting, and system operation as needed

Degree Requirement

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) or Electrical Engineering Technology (BSEET) preferred, or equivalent relevant experience

What You Will Have:

• Customer Focus: Working knowledge of the values and practices that align customer needs and satisfaction as primary considerations in all business decisions and ability to leverage that information in creating customized customer solutions.
• Service Excellence: Working knowledge of customer service concepts and techniques; ability to meet or exceed customer needs and expectations and provide excellent service in a direct or indirect manner.
• Technical Excellence: Working knowledge of a given technology and various application methods; ability to develop and provide solutions to significant technical challenges.

Additional Requirements:

• Experience working cross-functionally with engineers, contractors, consultants, and end users
• Experience with automation and controls, including PLC-based systems, HMIs, and distributed control systems
• Basic power knowledge and ability to read electrical schematics and blueprints
• PLC experience with one or more: Modicon/Schneider, Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or GE
• Minimum 2 years of related experience with degree, or 4 years of equivalent experience without a degree
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet background, drug, and medical requirements

What Will Put You Ahead:

• Knowledge of power systems, including switchgear, ATS, and generator systems
• HMI experience (e.g., Rockwell FactoryTalk, Siemens, Vijeo, iFix, Wonderware)

Additional Information:

• Remote (U.S.-based) with a travel requirement of 35-50%
• Salaried exempt position with overtime eligibility

• Position may require Special Government Clearance: Passing a US Government background check may be required as a job requirement

• Additional Benefits: Phone allowance included, and company vehicle provided (includes insurance, towing, and personal use)
• This position is eligible for candidates participating in the Department of Defense (DoD) SkillBridge Program. Candidates approved through the DoD SkillBridge Program may be considered for this opportunity.
• Relocation assistance is not available for this position
• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position

This Job Description is intended as a general guide to the job duties for this position and is intended for the purpose of establishing the specific salary grade. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as an exhaustive summary of all responsibilities, duties and effort required of employees assigned to this job.

At the discretion of management, this description may be changed at any time to address the evolving needs of the organization. It is expressly not intended to be a comprehensive list of “essential job functions” as that term is defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

About Caterpillar

Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. For over 100 years, we have been helping customers build a better, more sustainable world and are committed and contributing to a reduced-carbon future. Our innovative products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value that helps customers succeed.

Summary Pay Range:

$89,210.00 - $133,810.00

Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.

Benefits:

Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of 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

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates:

October 19, 2026 - November 15, 2026

Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.