Entry Level Ai Robotics Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Engineering

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.

Launch your career while helping build the connected technologies that power some of the world's most iconic machines. At Caterpillar, you'll work on products used around the globe, collaborate with talented engineers, and accelerate your growth through hands-on development, mentorship, and meaningful project ownership from day one.

The Autonomous and Intelligent Systems team develops the AI-powered technologies that enable Caterpillar machines to perceive, understand, and interact with the physical world autonomously.

By combining artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning, computer vision, sensor fusion, simulation, connectivity, and scalable software platforms, the team is building the foundation for the next generation of intelligent construction equipment. Their work spans machine perception, autonomous decision-making, navigation, machine control, digital twins, and high-fidelity simulation, enabling equipment to operate safely and efficiently in complex, real-world environments.

By transforming heavy machinery into intelligent, connected systems, the team is helping solve critical industry challenges such as labor shortages, jobsite safety, productivity, and operational efficiency while advancing Caterpillar's vision for autonomous construction and the future of physical AI.

By joining the You can focus on building technical abilities for Physical AI in roles including, but not limited to, Robotics, Simulation, Architecture, Autonomy and Automation, and Software engineering.

• Robotics Software: Knowledge of programming and configuring robots using software tools

• 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.

• Human-Machine Interface Software and Systems: Knowledge of computer programming, user experience design tools, human factors engineering concepts, communication protocols, graphics software, and 3D modeling tools; ability to design, develop, and maintain Human-Machine Interface (HMI) software and systems, hardware components, and integrate them using communication protocols.

• Object-Oriented Tool: Knowledge of object technologies; ability to use tools and techniques for the design, development and support of object-oriented applications.

• Mobile Operating Systems and Platforms: Knowledge of mobile operation systems and platforms; ability to develop and support software for mobile environments and platforms.

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Robotics Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Data Science, AI Engineering, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering or related degree (selected candidates must complete their degree by their start date)

• ABET accreditation preferred

• 0-2 years of relevant experience related to this field (internships or academic projects are a plus)

• Minimum cumulative GPA requirement 3.0/ 4.0 (no rounding)

• Experience with robotics, autonomy, mechatronics, or embedded systems through a capstone, internship, research, work experience

• Hands-on experience building, programming, testing, or integrating autonomous robots, machines, vehicles, or sensor-based systems

• Experience using simulation, modeling, or digital twin tools to validate machine behavior, controls, or system performance

• Exposure to ROS/ROS2, Python, embedded systems, firmware, real-time software, hardware interfaces, or machine communication protocols

• Experience applying AI/ML, computer vision, data analytics, or cloud-based tools to solve engineering problems

• Demonstrated ability to debug complex hardware/software systems and move prototypes toward reliable, production-ready solutions

• Locations for this position are typically Peoria IL or Dallas TX

• Basic relocation may be available, depending on relocation qualifications

• Sponsorship now or in the future is NOT available for this position

$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.

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.

September 3, 2026 - November 12, 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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