Performance/Simulation/Application Engineering Specialist

Caterpillar · Lafayette · $128,470–$192,710 (stated in the posting)

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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.

About LPSD

The Large Power Systems Division (LPSD) is part of Caterpillar’s Power & Energy segment. Through this global organization, Caterpillar designs and manufacture large (greater than 18 liters) diesel and natural gas engines, powertrains and key engine systems. LPSD products and solutions support customers across power generation, industrial, marine, oil & gas, rail, services and Cat® machine applications worldwide.

Job Summary

The Large Power Systems Division is looking for a Technical Lead within the Spark Ignited Performance group of the Engine Systems & Controls Division. This individual provides technical leadership to the performance team developing and validating SI Engines and generating the calibration and certification of those engines. This individual also supports concept evaluation, recipe selection, performance improvement efforts, and field data analysis for early issue detection and resolution. The individual must have a strong background in Engine Performance and validation with experience in embedded control systems and emissions certification for diesel, Spark Ignited, or dual fuel engines. The individual will work closely with the performance team and be involved in various aspects of the NPI and NTI product development cycle; design, development, product quality and validation. This position will close on 11/02/2026 at 11:59PM.

What you will do:

• Provide technical leadership and guidance to the SI performance team
• Coaches the performance team
• Coordination with Emissions Regulations and Compliance team relative to new software and program requests, including necessary certification documentation, data files, and AECD documents
• Support and participate in technology development programs originating from research, NTI or other teams within Energy & Transportation, providing the voice of performance into these programs
• Communicate results to customers, suppliers, team members, and other business units
• Provide technical support and input to assist in the closure of product issues through the NPI and CPI process

Degree Requirement

Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in an accredited Engineering field

What you will have:

• 8+ years of relevant engineering work experience developing engine systems
• Understanding of Spark Ignited engine systems & applications
• Strong background in engine simulation and analysis, including proficiency with Matlab Simulink, as well as National Instruments tools
• Good teamwork, communication, analysis, and troubleshooting skills are required
• Ability to communicate complex and nuanced technical information to broad audiences, using various leadership styles to gain engagement as well as agreement on the path forward
• The individual should be a self-starter, highly motivated, able to learn at an accelerated pace, and willing to put in the time to get the job done
• The individual should be focused on continuous improvement of processes, methods, and tools relative to engine performance and validation

Top Candidates will also have:

• 3 years specifically in the Spark Ignited engine space.
• Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering, Engine Performance or Controls.
• Previous experience developing Spark Ignited or Dual Fuel Engines.
• Experience with Electric Power, Oil & Gas, or Marine engine applications.

Additional Information:

• The location for this position is Lafayette, IN
• Domestic relocation assistance is available for this position
• This position may require less than 10% travel

This Job Description is intended as a general guide to the job duties for this position and is intended for the purpose of establishing the specific salary grade. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as an exhaustive summary of all responsibilities, duties and effort required of employees assigned to this job. At the discretion of management, this description may be changed at any time to address the evolving needs of the organization. It is expressly not intended to be a comprehensive list of “essential job functions” as that term is defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act." #LI

Summary Pay Range:

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:

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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