Data Scientist / Technical Analyst

Caterpillar Inc.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 89,000 - 145,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision

Paid time off

401(k) savings plan

Tuition reimbursement

Career development

Bonus incentive

Job summary

Caterpillar Inc. in Chicago seeks a data science/technical analyst to build AI-driven analytics for fleet management, predictive maintenance, and optimized operations across Caterpillar customers worldwide.

You will work with machine learning, Generative AI, IoT data, and analytics while partnering with engineers and data scientists. This entry-level path within Cat Digital focuses on foundational skills and growth.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of statistical tools and processes to describe business results
• High precision and attention to detail
• Analytical thinking to identify root causes and propose solutions
• Knowledge of machine learning principles and algorithms
• Programming knowledge across common languages
• SQL and data querying capabilities
• Ability to elicit and record business requirements to guide software projects

Responsibilities

• Develop models to power asset management using ML on time-series data and sensor/inventory records
• Evaluate emerging technologies and platforms for product services
• Use Generative AI including prompt engineering and model development
• Conduct reliability monitoring, incident response, and continuous improvement activities
• Plan and execute long-term connectivity and telematics programs globally
• Provide digital technical support for Caterpillar digital applications

Skills

Business Statistics

Accuracy & Detail

Analytical Thinking

Machine Learning

Programming Languages

Query & Database Access

Requirements Analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher in related field

Job description

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.

Career Area

Marketing, Technology, Digital and Data

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. Launch your data science or technical analyst career by building AI and analytics solutions that help Caterpillar customers manage fleets, predict equipment failures, and optimize operations around the world. You'll work with machine learning, Generative AI, IoT data, and advanced analytics while partnering with experienced engineers and data scientists. This opportunity is ideal for those building foundational skills, generally within the first 24 months of their career. Cat Digital is the digital and technology focused organization within Caterpillar, Inc. Our global team is responsible for bringing digital capabilities to Caterpillar’s world-famous yellow iron. Working with your yellow partners and Cat Dealers, we execute key components of digital and marketing portfolios, including global marketing & brand, connectivity, enterprise data, analytics and AI, equipment management, eCommerce, digital marketing, rental & used digital solutions, and aftermarket leads & insights. Depending on team placement, you may focus on machine learning, AI, data analytics, digital product support, telematics, digital product development, business intelligence or business insights.

What You Will Do

• Develop models to power asset management solutions for customers and dealers using machine learning, deep learning, and statistics-based/physics-based analytics techniques on time-series sensor data, machine fault codes, inspections and analysis records to identify health anomalies, predict equipment failure modes, estimate remaining useful life, and build equipment risk models
• Evaluating emerging technologies by evaluating new product services and technology platforms
• Utilize Generative AI to develop and implement solutions, encompassing model training, evaluation, and selection. Engage in Prompt Engineering by fine-tuning AI models, developing new models, creating agents, assistants, and chatbots
• Reliability monitoring and observability, incident response, automation development, reliability analysis, operational readiness reviews, root cause investigations, performance optimization, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Ensure long-term connectivity through strategic planning and execution, including global telematics device programs. This involves testing, research, and analysis of cellular, satellite, Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, and other on-board and off-board technologies
• Provide digital technical support for essential Caterpillar digital applications and products

Technologies you may use include, but are not limited to:

Python, SQL, Machine Learning, Generative AI, Cloud Platforms, Data Visualization Tools, IoT & Telematics Data, Statistical Modeling

What You Will Have - Skills And Experiences

• Business Statistics: knowledge of statistical tools, processes, and practices to describe business results in measurable scales; ability to use statistical tools and processes to assist in making business decisions
• Accuracy and Attention to Detail: understanding the necessity and value of accuracy; ability to complete tasks with high levels of precision
• Analytical Thinking: knowledge of techniques and tools that promote effective analysis; ability to determine the root cause of organizational problems and create alternative solutions that resolve these problems
• Machine Learning: knowledge of principles, technologies and algorithms of machine learning; ability to develop, implement and deliver related systems, products and services
• Programming Languages: knowledge of basic concepts and capabilities of programming; ability to use tools, techniques and platforms in order to write and modify programming languages
• Query and Database Access Tools: knowledge of data management systems; ability to use, support and access facilities for searching, extracting and formatting data for further use
• Requirements Analysis: knowledge of tools, methods, and techniques of requirement analysis; ability to elicit, analyze and record required business functionality and non-functionality requirements to ensure the success of a system or software development project

Top Candidates May Have

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in data science, computer engineering, electrical engineering or related degree (selected candidates must complete their degree by their start date)
• 0-2 years of relevant experience related to this field (internships or academic projects are a plus)
• Minimum cumulative GPA requirement 3.0/ 4.0 (no rounding)
• Experience through internships, personal projects, research, hackathons, student organizations, or coursework is highly valued

Additional Information

• Locations for this position are typically Chicago and Peoria Illinois. Limited opportunities in Dallas, Texas
• Basic relocation may be available, depending on relocation qualifications
• Sponsorship now or in the future is NOT available for this position

Summary Pay Range

$89,210.00 - $144,960.00

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

Relocation is available for this position.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates

September 11, 2026 - November 13, 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.