Controls Engineer 1
Location: Peoria Proving Grounds, Peoria, IL
Schedule: On-Site, Full-Time, 1st Shift 7:00AM – 3:00PM
Duration: 18-Month Contract
Start Date: October 26, 2026
Pay Rate: Up to $42/hour
Travel: None
Visa Sponsorship: Not Available
About the Opportunity
Caterpillar is seeking motivated early-career engineers to join a growing validation team supporting the development and testing of cutting-edge Earthmoving equipment. This role offers hands-on exposure to machine controls, validation testing, data collection, and real-world engineering applications while working directly with heavy equipment in an outdoor environment.
Position Overview
The Controls Engineer will support engineering validation activities across multiple machine platforms. The primary focus will be planning and executing data collection runs, validating machine performance, troubleshooting systems, and ensuring collected data is accurately transferred for analysis.
The successful candidate will work closely with a team of experienced engineers and technical specialists while gaining exposure to advanced machine control technologies.
Key Responsibilities
- Support machine validation and data collection activities.
- Plan and coordinate testing schedules with engineering teams.
- Perform software flashing, machine setup, and system readiness checks.
- Test, evaluate, calibrate, and troubleshoot equipment and control systems.
- Analyze machine and plant processes and recommend improvements.
- Monitor and maintain electrical and controls systems.
- Troubleshoot hardware, software, and communication issues.
- Support electrical design activities from concept through implementation.
- Verify compliance with safety standards and engineering requirements.
- Upload and manage collected machine data for analysis.
- Communicate project status and test results to stakeholders.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related Engineering discipline.
- 0-2 years of engineering experience (internships accepted).
- Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
- Excellent communication and organizational skills.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
- Experience using computer-based engineering tools and applications.
- Knowledge of Ethernet and CAN communication systems.
- Ability to follow strict safety procedures and protocols.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with machine testing, validation, or controls systems.
- Familiarity with Linux operating systems.
- Knowledge of data acquisition and data collection processes.
- Exposure to electrical systems, motor controls, or automation technologies.
- Experience working with heavy equipment, vehicles, or industrial machinery.
- Understanding of robotic safety standards and control systems.
Top Skills
- Detailed planning and organization
- Troubleshooting and problem solving
- Ethernet, CAN, and Linux knowledge
Work Environment
- 100% on-site at Caterpillar’s Peoria Proving Grounds.
- Daily interaction with heavy equipment and machine testing activities.
- Outdoor work environment with exposure to varying weather conditions.
- Collaborative team of approximately 20 engineers and technical specialists.
- Strong onboarding, mentorship, and support for new engineers.
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