Engine Validation Engineer: Dynamics & Instrumentation

Caterpillar Inc.; Lafayette (IN); On-site; USD 98,000 - 146,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision benefits

Paid time off

401(k) savings plans

Health Savings Account (HSA)

Relocation assistance

Tuition Reimbursement

Job summary

Caterpillar Inc. in Lafayette, IN is seeking a Validation Test Engineer to grow ESPD’s testing footprint. You will plan and execute instrumentation tests for engine components, analyze results, and drive design optimization under Caterpillar standards.

Join a team responsible for core engine components, with travels up to 50% and relocation support. This role requires a strong background in dynamics, sensing hardware, and test methodologies.

Qualifications

• Requires a degree in an accredited Engineering, Materials Science curriculum, or related field.
• Experience with instrumentation and data acquisition systems.
• Ability to plan, execute and analyze complex engine component tests.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with simulation and design teams to develop instrumentation test plans.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute multi-channel tests on engine components and gensets.
• Analyze test data and correlate with models to recommend design improvements.
• Install, set up and troubleshoot accelerometers, strain gauges, thermocouples, pressure sensors, telemetry systems.
• Conduct advanced structural dynamics testing including modal analysis and vibration assessments.
• Develop new measurement techniques and diagnostic tools to expand testing capabilities.
• Lead and participate in continuous improvement for safety, efficiency, and quality.

Skills

Instrumentation planning

Test coordination

Data analysis

Structural dynamics

Vibration testing

Test methodology

Safety & quality

Education

Master’s or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

LMS/Simcenter

eDAQ

NI hardware

Job description

Caterpillar Inc. in Lafayette, IN is seeking a Validation Test Engineer to grow ESPD’s testing footprint. You will plan and execute instrumentation tests for engine components, analyze results, and drive design optimization under Caterpillar standards.

Join a team responsible for core engine components, with travels up to 50% and relocation support. This role requires a strong background in dynamics, sensing hardware, and test methodologies.