Automation & Controls Engineer - Critical Power Systems (Remote)

Caterpillar Inc.; Orangeburg (SC); Remote; USD 89,000 - 134,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work (US-based)

Travel 35-50%

Job summary

Caterpillar Inc. is seeking a proficient Electrical Engineer/Technician to support generator control switchgear systems within the Electric Power Division.

The role involves designing, developing, and implementing automation solutions for complex power systems from concept through commissioning. You will retrofit and deploy new control systems, convert legacy PLC programs, and collaborate with dealers, factories, and field teams to deliver reliable, safe power solutions.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• 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

Skills

Customer focus

Service excellence

Technical excellence

Education

Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering or related

Tools

PLC platforms (Modicon/Schneider, Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens, GE)

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

Distributed control systems

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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