Test & Validation Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision benefits

401(k) savings plans

Health Savings Account (HSA)

Job summary

Caterpillar Inc. is seeking a Machine Software & Controls Test Engineer to support testing of machine software and controls at the Peoria Proving Ground in Washington, IL. You will work on next‑generation tractors, validating features and connectivity to ensure performance meets Caterpillar’s standards.

The role emphasizes hands‑on testing, data analysis, and collaboration with engineering teams to deliver safe, reliable machines for customers around the world.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer science, or mechanical engineering.
• Experience in testing or validation for heavy machinery.
• Ability to diagnose and resolve machine software and controls issues.
• Familiar with CAT software tools such as CAT ET and CANape.
• Strong data analysis and documentation practices.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute software and controls tests on MT tractors and platforms.
• Develop test plans and validate results with cross-functional teams.
• Analyze data to turn into actionable insights.
• Ensure safety and quality in testing processes.
• Collaborate with on-site engineers and operators to meet timelines.
• Operate tractors after training.

Skills

Technical testing

Data analysis

Problem solving

Communication

Safety awareness

Team collaboration

Electrical systems

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related

Tools

CAT ET

CANape

Cadet

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

Engineering

Caterpillar’s Earthmoving division is seeking a Machine Software & Controls Test Engineer to support machine software and controls development at our Peoria Proving Ground in Washington, LL. In this role, you’ll work on engineering assignments that build your expertise in Caterpillar’s Medium Track-Type Tractor products, systems and technology platforms. Your focus will be on current and next-generation machine software testing, controls feature evaluations and offboard connectivity validation to ensure products perform as intended and meet Caterpillar’s high-quality standards and customer expectations. You won’t just test machines—you’ll influence the future of sustainable mining.

What You’ll Do

• Execute On-Machine Testing Projects: Plan and execute software and controls tests for current and next generation Medium Track-Type Tractor and technology platforms to confirm they meet program and customer requirements.
• Drive Safety & Quality: Make safety your top priority and champion continuous improvement in every aspect of testing.
• Own the Process: Collaborate with extended engineering, software and technology teams, develop test plans, document standard work procedures, execute checkouts and validation activities, and analyze results.
• Solve Complex Challenges: Apply your hands‑on skills and technical knowledge to troubleshoot and validate a variety of complex electrical, electronic, and software systems.
• Leverage Data: Use tools like Excel, DATK, CANape and MS Office to turn raw data into actionable insights.
• Collaborate & Innovate: Work closely with on‑site engineers, technicians, and operators to deliver projects on time and within budget.
• Hands‑On Experience: Get trained to operate Medium Track-Type Tractors and gain deep knowledge of software and controls systems.
• Continuous Improvement: Share ideas to enhance safety, efficiency, product performance, and customer value.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

Impactful Work: Your contributions directly shape the next generation of machines with new technology platforms.

Career Growth: Build expertise in cutting‑edge technologies and large‑scale systems.

Team Culture: Collaborate with passionate professionals in a supportive environment.

What Skills You Will Have

• Technical Excellence: Experience in testing or validation within heavy equipment, automotive, or industrial machinery.
• Product Testing: Experience designing and executing testing strategies. Experience with construction, forestry, mining or agricultural equipment is a plus.
• Troubleshooting Technical Problems: Ability to diagnose and resolve technical issues related to machine software and controls. Use tools such as CAT ET, CANape, and Cadet for machine functionality.
• Accuracy and Attention to Detail: Demonstrates a high level of precision in executing daily activities, data collection, and results analysis are accurate, complete, and traceable. Applying structured cross-checks and documentation practices to ensure compliance with requirements and quality standards.
• Effective Communication: Demonstrates clear and effective communication of test plans, results, and issues to cross‑functional teams, ensuring alignment on validation status and risks. Conveys complex technical findings in a concise, structured manner, enabling timely decision‑making and resolution.
• 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.
• Decision Making and Critical Thinking: Knowledge of the decision‑making process and associated tools and techniques; ability to accurately analyze situations and reach productive decisions based on informed judgment.
• Education requirement: Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.

Top candidates will also have

• Analytical Thinking Skills
• Decision Making and Critical Thinking
• Experience with Microsoft Suite to create tools for task automation and data analytics
• Understanding of Lean concepts for continuous process improvement
• Experience with TCE, DATK, SuperComm 2, Cadet, Caterpillar Electronic Technician, CANape, and electrical troubleshooting.
• Background in product development, machine testing, mining, or electrical/electronic systems.
• Ability to work on your feet for extended periods in varied conditions (indoor/outdoor, hot/cold, dusty).
• Ability to safely operate equipment after training.
• Familiarity with automation or scripting (Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW) for test efficiency and repeatability.
• Familiarity with AI to automate testing or analysis
• Experience with CAT digital (Visionlink, Remote Service, etc) & technology solutions (Grade, Detect, DSS, etc)

Additional Information

• Location: Washington, IL
• Domestic Relocation: Relocation assistance is not available for this position.
• Travel: Less than 10%
• Sponsorship: Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this role
• This position requires 5 days per week in the office (M-F)

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

This position requires working onsite five days a week.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates

August 19, 2026 - September 2, 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.