Entry Level Controls Design Engineer

Caterpillar; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 72,000 - 109,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

401(k) plan

HSA

Job summary

Solar Turbines Inc. in San Diego, California, a Caterpillar subsidiary, is seeking a motivated entry-level Electrical/Mechanical Engineer to design electrical hardware and control systems for gas turbines and related equipment.

You will collaborate with an Engineering Value Stream and mentors to apply PLC software and ladder logic in real projects. The role requires a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, a strong communication skill set, and willingness to travel for meetings and field support.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering required.
• GPA 2.8 or above.

Responsibilities

• Design electrical hardware and control systems for gas turbines, power generators, natural gas compressors, and methane emissions reduction systems.
• Develop electrical schematic drawings and control software for PLCs.
• Collaborate with Solar Turbines teams and external customers; support field personnel during commissioning.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Engineering

Tools

Ladder logic

PLCs

HMI software

Job description

Career Area: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 DescriptionSolar Turbines Incorporated, headquartered in San Diego, California, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc. Solar manufactures the world’s most widely used family of mid-sized industrial gas turbines, ranging from 1 to 23 megawatts. Solar is a leading provider of energy solutions, featuring an extensive line of gas turbine-powered compressor sets.Job Summary:Solar Turbines Inc. is looking for a motivated, creative, high performing entry-level engineer to join the Custom Solutions Engineering Value Stream team.The Engineering Value Stream is a dynamic project execution environment where you, and your Mentor, will collaborate with multiple engineering disciplines with the goal of supporting our Customers and Manufacturing.The ideal candidate for this position would be an entry-level Electrical Engineer, Computer Engineer or Mechanical Engineer, with an interest in electrical equipment design and software programming/testing to control electro-mechanical systems.Job Accountabilities:Job duties include the design of electrical hardware and control systems for gas turbines, power generators, natural gas compressors, and methane emissions reduction systems. Primary deliverables include electrical schematic drawings and control software (ladder logic) for programmable logic controllers (PLCs).Initial accountabilities may include Software Test whereby candidate would be exposed to how the system operates via simulation software. This position requires coordinating with various organizations within Solar Turbines, including direct interface with external customers. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are imperative.The successful candidate will collaborate in an Engineering Value Stream with up to 10 other engineering disciplines. Having the ability to work well with a team, paying attention to detail with a focus on quality, and the drive to deliver on time is critical to this position. A sense of urgency and organizational skills are required to work with multiple projects and competing priorities.Additional duties include supporting field personnel during commissioning and the resolution of safety critical risk assessments. This position provides opportunities to travel to support Customer Design Review meetings, Hazard and Operability Study (HAZOP) meetings, and support installed equipment in the Field.Basic Qualifications:Bachelor of Science in EngineeringGPA 2.8 or aboveTop Candidates Have:The successful candidate will have educational and/or experience-based exposure to electrical equipment design and control software for PLC applications.Direct experience with programming PLCs and Windows-based Human Machine Interface (HMI) systems is a plus. Knowledge of Turbomachinery Electrical Loop Schematics, Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) and Control Systems is highly desired.Summary Pay Range:$72,360.00 - $108,540.00Compensation 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 benefitsLife InsuranceParental leaveAdoption benefitsTuition Reimbursement* These benefits also apply to part-time employeesThis position requires working onsite five days a week.This position requires working onsite five days a week.Relocation is available for this position.Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.Posting Dates:October 22, 2026 - November 5, 2026Any 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.Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community .