Machine Systems Integration Engineer

Caterpillar · Chennai

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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.

Systems Integration Engineer

As a Systems Integration Engineer, you will be the technical bridge between machine electronics hardware, embedded software, and application-level features across Caterpillar's off-highway and tracked-machine product lines. You will own the end-to-end integration of Cat ECMs, Displays, and third-party components into a coherent machine electronics architecture — from requirements and architecture definition through HIL/SIL validation, factory support, and field issue resolution. You will work closely with Product Group stakeholders, global cross-functional engineering teams (electrical, mechanical, software), and factory/field teams to deliver reliable, high-quality machine systems on schedule.

1. System Architecture & Requirements

• Perform Cat architecture studies and develop control system architecture integrating Displays and Cat ECMs.
• Author technical specifications and system/software requirements for machine application features, including new features, enhancements, and CPIs.
• Establish integration strategy defining communication protocols (CAN/J1939, Ethernet/TCP-IP, etc.) between ECMs and Display systems.
• Define and document supporting requirements — interfaces, calibration parameters, boundary diagrams — and drive standard application components for system coherence.

2. Electrical & Software Design Support

• Support electrical schematic design activities, including ECM pinout design and component selection (sensors, switches, relays) in coordination with the electrical install team.
• Define software requirements for diagnostics, display, and engine/machine application software teams.
• Contribute to load studies and starting/charging analysis (battery, starter, alternator selection) where applicable.

3. Integration, Validation & Quality

• Lead machine electronics system integration and validation, including HIL/SIL bench testing, test plan authoring, and root-cause review of test failures.
• Integrate Display systems with Cat ECMs and third-party systems; conduct thorough system testing to confirm functionality, reliability, and safety standards.
• Participate in Built-In-Quality (BIQ) reviews, FMEAs, and Design Verification Plans (DVPs); ensure quality standards are met across the development lifecycle.

4. Factory & Field Support

• Provide in-person or remote build support for pilot and production machines; advise factory teams on end-of-line test stand design and software flashing setup.
• Analyze field/telemetry data (e.g., product health data) to determine root cause of field issues and support difficult field escalations via phone/Teams/email.
• Support machine commissioning, ensuring successful on-site integration of ECM and Display systems.

5. Technology Integration & Obsolescence

• Support technology integration programs such as Payload, Cycle Segmentation, Operator Assist, Collision Mitigation, Connectivity, and similar features — from requirements through proof-of-concept.
• Proactively manage obsolescence of electronics components; work with internal component teams and suppliers to identify and validate replacements.

6. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with electrical, mechanical, and software engineering teams to ensure seamless multi-disciplinary integration.
• Collaborate with project managers and Product Group stakeholders to meet program timelines, budgets, and quality targets.
• Document system architecture, programming logic, wiring diagrams, and release notes to support maintenance and future upgrades.

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Electronics, Electronics & Instrumentation, or a related Engineering discipline.
• 8 – 12 years of relevant engineering experience in electronics/controls system design, integration, or validation for automotive, off-highway, or industrial machine products (experience range depends on target level — Engineer vs. Senior Engineer).
• Strong foundation in E&E components (sensors, switches, relays, ECMs) and control systems fundamentals.
• Working knowledge of datalink protocols such as CAN/J1939 and Ethernet TCP/IP.
• Ability to write clear, unambiguous technical specifications and requirements documents.
• Good understanding of diagnostics and troubleshooting methodology for control system failures.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and cross-functional communication skills — this role requires constant interaction with regional and global development teams.

• Hands-on experience with HIL/SIL validation tools (e.g., Vector CANoe/CANalyzer/CANape, dSPACE, MATLAB/Simulink).
• Familiarity with version control and workflow tools such as GIT/SVN and Azure DevOps.
• Exposure to AUTOSAR architecture and model-based development practices.
• Machine-level design and product application knowledge; familiarity with Caterpillar design/Teamcenter release processes and BIQ practices.
• Project leadership experience, Agile/Scrum exposure, and prior involvement in factory or field support activities.
• Six Sigma methodology or structured problem-solving experience (e.g., 8D, FMEA).

• Machine electronics architectures that are robust, standardized, and reusable across product variants.
• On-time delivery of validated software/system features that meet specification with minimal field escapes.
• Strong, trusted working relationships with Product Group, factory, and global engineering counterparts.
• Proactive identification and mitigation of obsolescence and integration risks well ahead of production impact.

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Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply

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