Performance, Simulation, Application Engineering Specialist

Caterpillar Inc.

. Provide technical leadership and guidance to the SI performance team .

Posted 10/26/2026full-timeLafayette • Illinois • United StatesSeniorLead💰 $128,470 - $192,710 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in Spark Ignited engine systems, engine simulation, and analysis, with a strong focus on continuous improvement in performance and validation processes. Proven ability to lead technical teams and communicate complex information effectively across various stakeholders.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Spark Ignited Engine SystemsEngine Simulation and AnalysisMatlab SimulinkNational Instruments ToolsTechnical Leadership

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Engine CalibrationCertification DocumentationData AnalysisPerformance ImprovementField Data AnalysisNPI ProcessCPI ProcessTechnology DevelopmentRecipe SelectionConcept Evaluation

Soft Skills

TeamworkCommunicationAnalysisTroubleshootingSelf-Starter

Certifications & Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree in EngineeringAdvanced Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Industry Keywords

Emissions RegulationsEnergy & TransportationElectric PowerOil & GasMarine Engine Applications

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Spark

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Provide technical leadership and guidance to the SI performance team
Coach the performance team
Coordinate with the Emissions Regulations and Compliance team on new software and program requests
Prepare necessary certification documentation, data files, and AECD documents
Support and participate in technology development programs from research, NTI, or other Energy & Transportation teams
Provide the voice of performance in technology development programs
Communicate results to customers, suppliers, team members, and other business units
Provide technical support and input to close product issues through the NPI and CPI process
Develop and validate Spark Ignited engines
Generate engine calibration and certification
Support concept evaluation, recipe selection, performance improvement, and field data analysis for early issue detection and resolution
Participate in NPI and NTI product development across design, development, product quality, and validation

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in an accredited Engineering field
8+ years of relevant engineering work experience developing engine systems
Understanding of Spark Ignited engine systems & applications
Strong background in engine simulation and analysis
Proficiency with Matlab Simulink
Proficiency with National Instruments tools
Good teamwork, communication, analysis, and troubleshooting skills
Ability to communicate complex and nuanced technical information to broad audiences
Self-starter, highly motivated, able to learn at an accelerated pace, and willing to put in the time to get the job done
Focus on continuous improvement of processes, methods, and tools relative to engine performance and validation
Top candidates may have 3 years specifically in the Spark Ignited engine space
Top candidates may have an advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering, Engine Performance or Controls
Top candidates may have previous experience developing Spark Ignited or Dual Fuel Engines
Top candidates may have experience with Electric Power, Oil & Gas, or Marine engine applications
Must work onsite five days a week
Visa Sponsorship is not available

Benefits

Comp & perks

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
Domestic relocation assistance
Relocation available
Less than 10% travel may be required