Senior Drivetrain Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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.

Role Definition

Caterpillar is seeking a highly capable Senior Design Engineer to join the Drivetrain Controls System Simulation and Validation (DCSSV) organization supporting Large Track Type Tractor (LTTT) Drivetrain Controls Design and Development. This role is focused on delivering high-quality drivetrain controls solutions for D9, D10, and D11 Track-Type Tractors, including powershift transmission control, torque converter and stator clutch control, shift strategy development, software integration, calibration support, and validation planning. The position will support current production, New Product Introduction (NPI), and technology transformation work that enables robust, scalable drivetrain controls for large tractor applications operating in demanding mining, quarry, construction, and production dozing environments.

The successful candidate will apply strong technical judgment across controls design, embedded software development, machine system integration, calibration, and validation activities while partnering with cross-functional teams to deliver drivetrain controls solutions from concept through production readiness. This position requires systems-level thinking, strong attention to detail, and consistent execution of standard engineering processes to ensure software quality, integration readiness, machine performance, durability, and validation rigor for D9–D11 drivetrain systems.

What you will do

• Execute NPI software development activities for drivetrain controls design and validation applications, including requirements definition, implementation, integration, and product delivery using established development processes.




• Develop and integrate drivetrain control solutions for powershift transmissions, torque converters, stator clutch systems, transmission valves, sensors, actuators and associated embedded software used in large tractor drivetrain systems.




• Support validation planning and execution by defining verification strategies, test plans, success criteria, instrumentation needs, and data review approaches across simulation, bench, and machine environments.




• Support technology transformation projects that modernize controls, software workflows, and development practices to improve capability, quality, and efficiency.




• Apply systems engineering principles to balance performance, durability, maintainability, and cost across drivetrain mechatronic solutions.




• Work with global and cross-functional teams to support design reviews, software releases, integration activities, and validation execution.




• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, controls, software, and validation teams to ensure seamless system integration and timely issue resolution.




• Solve technical problems through data analysis, root cause investigation, and corrective action development during development and validation phases.




• Follow and strengthen standard work, engineering best practices, and continuous improvement efforts that support high-quality drivetrain mechatronics development and validation processes.

Degree Requirement

• Bachelor’s degree in an accredited Engineering curriculum, preferably:

• Electrical Engineering




• Mechanical Engineering




• Mechatronics Engineering




• Computer Engineering




• Ag Engineering

What you must have (skills)

• Analytical Thinking: knowledge of techniques and tools that promote effective analysis; ability to determine root cause, evaluate technical tradeoffs, and create practical solutions for software, controls, and system integration challenges.




• Decision Making and Critical Thinking: Knowledge of decision-making processes and associated tools; ability to assess technical risk, prioritize work, and make sound recommendations across development and validation activities.




• Effective Communications: Understanding of communication concepts, tools, and techniques; ability to clearly convey technical issues, validation results, risks, and project status across cross-functional teams.




• Computer-Aided Controls Systems Development: Knowledge of tools and techniques used to develop, simulate, integrate, and validate embedded controls and mechatronic system solutions.




• Product Testing: Strong knowledge of product testing approaches, techniques, and tools; ability to build and execute robust validation plans that ensure product quality and readiness.




• Troubleshooting Technical Problems: Knowledge of troubleshooting approaches, tools, and techniques; ability to detect, analyze, and resolve software, controls, and integration issues in product development environments.

Top Candidates will also have

• Demonstrated engineering experience in drivetrain controls design, embedded software development, mechatronics, calibration, or validation for powershift transmission, torque converter, or large machine applications.




• Experience with New Product Introduction (NPI) processes and delivery of software-enabled product capabilities into production applications.




• Strong mechanical and electronics aptitude with a passion for delivering high-quality drivetrain systems to Caterpillar customers.




• Experience in validation planning and execution, including test strategy development, data analysis, and issue resolution.




• Test, data collection, and analysis capabilities using ATI Vision, CANape, or similar calibration, measurement, and analytics tools.

Additional Information

• This posting will close on 8/11/2026 at 11:59 p.m.




• The location for this position is Mossville, IL (Technical Center Building G) or Washington, IL (Peoria Proving Grounds) and requires the employee to work a 5-day-a-week schedule onsite.




• Relocation assistance (domestic) is available for this position.




• Sponsorship is NOT available.




• This position may require less than 10% travel

Final details
Summary Pay Range

$112,710.00 - $169,060.00

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

This position requires working onsite five days a week.Relocation is available for this position.Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates

July 28, 2026 - August 11, 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.