Principal Engineer, Test Execution

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.

The Test Execution Group (TEG) provides engineering support for product development and testing within the New Product Introduction (NPI) organization. The group collaborates with Product Engineering and Packaging teams to deliver high-quality test data, advanced instrumentation, and insightful analysis that drives innovation in engine and component development.

What We Do

Our team specializes in:

• Engineering Solutions: Design responsibility for engine and rig instrumentation, including drawing creation and engineering instructions for machining, procurement, assembly and engine build. Instrumentations include thermocouples, pressure sensors, strain gages, crystals, blade clearance measurements, blade tip timing, accelerometers, and more.
• Data Acquisition & Cutting-Edge Tools: High speed acquisition systems like NSMS (Blade Tip Timing), LMS Test Lab, RDI (Motion amplification camera), and thermal imaging.
• Advanced Data Analysis: Data postprocessing with modal and structural analysis.
• Test Planning & Management: Planning and scheduling from test request to test cell.

Your Role

As a Test Execution Engineer , you will:

• Plan and execute developmental tests for engines and components.
• Plan installation and routing of specialized instrumentation.
• Process and analyze test data to validate design and improve product performance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on project planning and execution.
• Use advanced software to support data acquisition and analysis, namely Siemens Signature Acquisition, Apex DX, Agilis Data Lens & Offline Analysis, FLIR Thermal Studio and RDI Motion Amplification.

What We're Looking For

• A curious, detail-oriented engineer passionate about testing and data-driven insights.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience or interest in instrumentation, mechanical systems, or data analysis.
• Familiarity with tools like Creo, Ansys, or similar is a plus.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a team that directly influences product innovation and reliability.
• Work with cutting-edge technology and diverse projects.
• Enjoy a collaborative environment where you will closely interact with:
• NPI and GTPE Mechanical Design
• Aero/Thermal and Performance
• Combustion Engineering
• Packaging and Gas Compressors

Minimum Qualifications:

• B.S. in Mechanical, Electrical or Aerospace Engineering
• 6+ years of relevant design, analysis or test experience

Summary Pay Range:

$120, $180,449.00

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