Systems Engineer - OPT/STEM OPT

Job Summary

Caterpillar is looking for a Systems Engineer 3 to support the development of autonomous construction machines . The role focuses on defining system requirements, architecture, software/hardware integration, and validation for autonomous machines such as Articulated Trucks, Excavators, and Wheel Loaders . Key Responsibilities

• Define and manage system-level requirements for autonomous machines.
• Decompose customer requirements into hardware and software requirements.
• Support system architecture, integration, and validation.
• Work with machine systems teams to deliver autonomous features.
• Manage requirements and features using DevOps .
• Ensure proper documentation and requirements traceability.
• Support lab, machine, and proving-ground testing.
• Communicate system readiness, technical risks, and design trade-offs to stakeholders.
• Serve as a subject matter expert for autonomous machine solutions.

Required Education & Experience

• 5 7 years of professional experience.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field .
• Master's degree accepted with full 5 years of experience.
• Associate degree is not acceptable.
• Internship experience does not count.

Top Required Skills

• Systems engineering experience with autonomous machines , including hardware/software integration.
• Experience with systems integration and validation in lab and on-machine environments.
• Knowledge of construction equipment , especially Articulated Dump Trucks, Hydraulic Excavators, or Wheel Loaders.

Additional Technical Skills

• Strong requirements development and systems architecture experience.
• Experience with autonomous systems , preferably Caterpillar Command systems.
• Experience with CAN and Ethernet system integration .
• Experience taking products from design through implementation, customer rollout, and support.
• Ability to document requirements, designs, and system success criteria.
• Construction or mining industry experience is preferred.

Soft Skills

• Strong communication and stakeholder-management skills.
• Ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly.
• Strong documentation and requirements-management skills.
• Data-driven decision making and problem solving.
• Ability to influence technical decisions and communicate trade-offs.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently and in a team.

Ideal Candidate

A Systems Engineer with 5 7 years of experience in autonomous vehicles/machines, embedded systems, systems integration, and validation , with strong requirements-management skills and experience with CAN/Ethernet and construction or mining equipment .

Important: This is 100% onsite in Mossville, IL , with approximately 20% proving-ground work . Candidate must be willing to work around machines and use PPE.