Technologist - Test/Validation

Caterpillar Brazil; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 98,000 - 146,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision benefits

401(k) savings plans

Paid time off plan

Health Savings Account (HSA)

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Career Development

Incentive bonus

Tuition Reimbursement

Job summary

Caterpillar Inc. is seeking a Technologist - Test/Validation to join the Test Data Systems team within the Large Power Systems Division in Mossville, Illinois.

This role provides technical leadership, supporting test automation, data acquisition, and test-cell operations to improve testing and validation processes. You will work with validation, performance, emissions, instrumentation, and supplier teams to drive innovation and high-quality development of Caterpillar power systems.

Qualifications

• Five or more years of laboratory experience preferred.
• Troubleshoot hardware, software, instrumentation, communication, and automation-related issues in a lab environment.
• Develop effective technical solutions and stay current on lab systems and automation.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work with team members, customers, suppliers, and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Organize and perform testing activities supporting Power Systems development and validation programs.
• Support test-cell operations and resolve technical issues through troubleshooting and problem solving.
• Implement and deploy new requirements, features, enhancements, and bug fixes within the test automation platform.
• Create and maintain applications and interfaces using Visual Basic, Morphee, and Python.
• Test and deploy automation, data acquisition, and test setup tools used in laboratory environments.
• Lead software deployment and synchronization across laboratory test cells.
• Gather requirements, analyze business needs, and help improve testing, validation, and automation processes.
• Collaborate with instrument and device suppliers to obtain technical knowledge and support project delivery.
• Support laboratory standardization, automation, and quality initiatives.
• Serve as a technical resource for measurement devices and instrument communication systems.
• Maintain data quality and consistency through data governance processes.
• Document standard processes, testing procedures, and technical solutions.
• Prioritize personal work and coordinate competing priorities.
• Partner with global teams supporting engine development laboratories in the United States, United Kingdom, and China.

Skills

Laboratory testing

Troubleshooting

Technical communication

Automation

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Technology or related field

Tools

Visual Basic

Morphee

Python

C#

Job description

Career Area: Engineering 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. Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc. Whether it be groundbreaking products, best-in-class solutions, or creating a lifelong career, you can do the work that matters at Caterpillar. With a 95-year legacy of quality and innovation and locations around the world, your impact spans the globe. When you join Caterpillar, you are joining a team of makers, innovators, and doers. We are the people who roll up our sleeves and do the work to build a better world. We do not just talk about progress and innovation. We make it happen. And we are proud of that, because it helps our customers build and power the world we live in, including the roads, hospitals, homes, and infrastructure that support communities everywhere.

Job Summary:

Caterpillar is seeking a Technologist - Test/Validation to join the Test Data Systems team within the Large Power Systems Division in Mossville, Illinois. The team supports the automation and data acquisition systems used in Caterpillar's global engine development laboratories, helping deliver efficient, reliable, and high-quality testing solutions that support product development. In this hands-on laboratory role, you will provide technical leadership while supporting test automation, data acquisition, application and interface development, and test-cell operations. You will work closely with validation, performance, emissions, instrumentation, facilities, and supplier teams to implement new capabilities, troubleshoot technical issues, and continuously improve testing and validation processes. This is a position with significant technical influence and collaboration across global teams. The ideal candidate brings strong laboratory or engine testing experience, a passion for problem-solving, and the ability to work directly with customers, suppliers, and technical peers to drive innovation, improve product quality, and support the development of Caterpillar's next generation of power systems.

How You Will Make an Impact:

Support Product Quality Through Testing & Validation - Help maximize product quality by supporting testing, development, validation, and automation activities within a dynamic engine laboratory environment.

Drive Technical Leadership - Lead technical discussions, explain technical architecture, and help resolve complex technical challenges while supporting teammates and laboratory stakeholders.

Develop Innovative Automation Solutions - Create, maintain, and enhance applications and interfaces that improve test automation, data acquisition, and laboratory efficiency.

Collaborate Across Global Teams - Partner with customers, suppliers, and technical peers to deliver successful projects, improve laboratory capabilities, and support long-term business objectives.

Build Toward Autonomous Technical Ownership - Develop expertise in laboratory equipment, software platforms, and team processes while progressing toward independent ownership of technical work and test-cell support activities.

Responsibilities:

• Organize and perform testing activities that support Power Systems development and validation programs.
• Support test-cell operations and resolve technical issues through troubleshooting and problem solving.
• Implement and deploy new requirements, features, enhancements, and bug fixes within the test automation platform.
• Create and maintain applications and interfaces using Visual Basic, Morphe, and Python.
• Test and deploy automation, data acquisition, and test setup tools used within laboratory environments.
• Lead software deployment and synchronization activities across laboratory test cells.
• Gather requirements, analyze business needs, and help improve testing, validation, and automation processes.
• Collaborate with instrument and device suppliers to obtain technical knowledge and support project delivery.
• Support laboratory standardization, automation, and quality initiatives.
• Serve as a technical resource for measurement devices and instrument communication systems.
• Maintain data quality and consistency through support of laboratory data governance processes.
• Document standard processes, testing procedures, and technical solutions.
• Prioritize personal work effectively while helping others coordinate competing priorities.
• Partner with global teams supporting engine development laboratories in the United States, United Kingdom, and China.

What Skills You Will Have:

Product Testing (Working Knowledge) Apply product testing approaches, tools, and techniques to support engine and power systems development activities. Document test procedures, test execution results, and defect-tracking information. Analyze testing outcomes and support continuous improvement efforts. Test components and systems for compliance with functional requirements and established standards. Participate in developing testing procedures and selecting appropriate testing tools and environments.

Troubleshooting Technical Problems (Working Knowledge) Troubleshoot hardware, software, instrumentation, communication, and automation-related issues within a laboratory environment. Apply standard troubleshooting methods to identify root causes and implement effective resolutions. Utilize diagnostic guides, tools, and utilities to investigate technical issues. Document common technical issues, corrective actions, and lessons learned. Support evaluation and continuous improvement of troubleshooting practices.

Technical Excellence (Working Knowledge) Provide effective technical solutions to routine and moderately complex engineering and laboratory challenges. Apply current technologies, software tools, and technical procedures to support testing and validation activities. Continuously build technical knowledge and remain current on laboratory systems, automation solutions, and testing technologies. Apply technical and operational standards that support high-quality products, services, and testing outcomes. Support peers by helping resolve technical and procedural issues.

Decision Making & Critical Thinking (Working Knowledge) Analyze technical issues, identify key information, and organize data to support sound decision making. Recognize, clarify, and prioritize technical concerns and competing requirements. Participate in evaluating alternatives, risks, and benefits when developing solutions. Apply structured problem-solving and critical-thinking techniques to laboratory and automation-related challenges. Collaborate with stakeholders to support informed, practical decisions.

Accuracy & Attention to Detail (Working Knowledge) Demonstrate a high level of accuracy when working with test systems, laboratory equipment, software applications, and technical documentation. Utilize established verification methods, checklists, and quality processes to ensure error-free outputs. Understand the impact of errors, omissions, and oversights on testing results, data quality, and project delivery. Process detailed technical information with precision and consistency. Learn from mistakes and apply lessons learned to improve future performance.

Laboratory & Technical Experience

• Five or more years of laboratory experience preferred for the initial hiring round.
• Experience applying automation within a test facility or laboratory environment.
• Familiarity with engine laboratory operations and testing processes.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate technical information with team members, customers, suppliers, and cross-functional stakeholders.
• Ability to work on-site five days per week in Mossville, Illinois.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 10%.
• Candidates with hands-on diesel-engine experience, strong learning agility, and demonstrated commitment to working safely may also be considered.

Top Candidates Will Also Have:

• Bachelor's degree in Technology or a related field.
• Previous laboratory experience supporting testing, validation, or engine development activities.
• Experience with automation and data acquisition software and tools.
• Experience developing software solutions using Visual Basic, Morphee, Python, C#, or similar technologies.
• Passion for automation, continuous improvement, and methodical engineering practices.
• Extensive experience supporting engine laboratory operations, factory support, or engineering environments.

Additional Information:

Location: Mossville, Illinois (Tech Center L)

Work Arrangement: On-site, five days per week

Travel: Up to 10% domestic and international travel

Relocation Assistance: Not available

Visa Sponsorship: Not available

Summary Pay Range: $97,530.00 - $146,290.00 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:

• 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

EEO/AA Employer Statement

E3/AA Employer. All qualified individuals - Including minorities, females, veterans and individuals with disabilities - are encouraged to apply.

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

Culture and Team Values

There’s more to work at Caterpillar than just the work itself. We hire smart, friendly people and it shows in our culture. We hold ourselves to high standards and make sure our values of integrity, excellence, teamwork, commitment and sustainability come to life in the way we work. We make sure our employees feel continuously challenged while also supported. We provide professional growth opportunities, including leadership programs. We celebrate the diversity of our team, while also working together as one Caterpillar. Our culture, like everything at our company, is made possible by each employee’s contribution. Person by person, we create the environment we work in, and we are proud of the Caterpillar we’ve built.