Automation Engineer

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 is seeking an In Process Validation (IPV) Automation Engineer to join our factory-based team in Sanford, NC. This role will work closely with the IPV Automation Specialist to design, develop and support software systems that enable factory calibrations and testing processes, ensuring our machines meet performance requirements.

In this role, you will:

Support the design, development, deployment and continual improvement of automated solutions for factory calibration and testing.

Assist in programming, debugging, and troubleshooting automated systems.

Work with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of automation solutions.

Maintain detailed documentation for automation processes and systems.

A successful candidate in this role will showcase their skills in:

Problem Solving: Knowledge of approaches, tools, techniques for recognizing, anticipating, and resolving organizational, operational or process problems; ability to apply knowledge of problem solving appropriately to diverse situations.

Software Development and Testing: Knowledge of software development life cycle; ability to use a structured methodology for delivering, managing and testing new or enhanced software, including adherence to stated requirements.

Programming: Knowledge of relevant programming languages and tools; ability to test, write, design, debug, troubleshoot and maintain source codes and computer programs.

Technical Troubleshooting: Knowledge of technical troubleshooting approaches, tools and techniques; ability to anticipate, recognize, and resolve technical issues on hardware, software, application or operation.

Artificial Intelligence: Knowledge of the concepts, technologies and methodologies of artificial intelligence (AI); ability to develop, implement and/or apply artificial intelligence products and services in specific industry domain to achieve business goals.

Top candidates for this position may also have:

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering or relevant technical discipline

Demonstrated knowledge of CAN and J1939 communication protocol

Experience with Python, C, C++ and Qt

Experience using MS Access, SQL Server

Knowledge of electro-hydraulic machine systems and components

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Strong documentation skills

Experience developing test plans and implementing them

Additional Information:

The primary location for this position is in Sanford, NC.

Domestic relocation assistance is available

Sponsorship is not available

This position requires a 5-day in-office schedule.

Summary Pay Range:

$89,210.00 - $144,960.00

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

Posting Dates:

July 9, 2026 - July 23, 2026

Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.

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