Engineering Project Team Leader

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.

Caterpillar’s Earthmoving division is hiring for Engineering Project Team Leader in Peoria, IL.

Role Summary: The MWL Machine Controls Validation Team Lead role for Earthmoving’s Peoria Proving Ground leads controls validation of CAT’s latest MWL products and technologies. You will work at the 2500+ acre (10km^2) site to validate new technologies and systems in real world applications. In this role you will lead a team to ensure core machine controls and future technologies like zero-emissions and remote and autonomous operation are developed and validated to Caterpillar’s high-quality standards. This role is ideal for those looking to round out their career with hands-on machine experience, team leadership, and managing complex projects.

What You’ll Do (Job Duties)

• Lead on-machine software and controls validation of the latest technologies for next-generation Caterpillar medium wheel loaders
• Mentor and lead a team of engineers to perform vehicle level software, controls, and technology tests to achieve program targets
• Create and coordinate software and technology validation plans and test procedures with world-wide teams
• Perform on-machine software and technology testing, identifying defects by operating heavy equipment (and we’ll teach you how)

What You Have (Core Skills)

• Products and Services: Knowledge of CAT products, features and services and ability to apply knowledge to diverse situations.
• Technical Excellence: Knowledge of software and/or technology development and testing methods; ability to develop and provide solutions to significant technical challenges.
• Project Management: Knowledge of effective project management strategies and tactics; ability to plan, organize, monitor, and control projects, ensuring efficient utilization of technical and administrative resources to achieve project objectives.
• Team Management: Knowledge of effective team building techniques; ability to form and manage effective teams.
• Troubleshooting Technical Problems: Knowledge of troubleshooting approaches, tools and techniques; ability to anticipate, detect and resolve technical problems in a hands-on field environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in an accredited Engineer or Computer Science curriculum OR equivalent progressive experience working in an engineering function.
   

Top Candidates Will Also Have

• Prior software development and/or testing experience
• Deep understanding of controls systems
• Experience with CAT digital solutions (Visionlink, Remote Services, etc.)
• Experience with CAT technology solutions (Grade Control, Detect, DSS, etc.)
• Familiarity with automation or scripting (Python, MATLAB, LabView) for test efficiency and repeatability
• Understanding of Lean concepts for continuous process improvement
• Experience with AI to automate testing or analysis

Additional Details

• Work location: Peoria, IL
• Domestic relocation assistance is available for this role.
• Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this role.
• Travel: Less than 10%.
• This position requires 5 days per week in the office (M-F)

Summary Pay Range:

$128,470.00 - $192,710.00

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

This position requires working onsite five days a week.

Relocation is available for this position.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position. This employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as, H, L, TN, F, J, E, O. As a global company, Caterpillar offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S which can be found through our employment website at www.caterpillar.com/careers.

Posting Dates:

March 9, 2026 - March 23, 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.

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