Test & Validation Senior Associate Engineer

Career Area:EngineeringJob 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.Job Summary: Join a team that helps ensure Caterpillar products perform reliably in the toughest environments around the world. As a Test & Validation Senior Associate Engineer, you will play a key role in planning, executing, and analyzing validation activities that support the development of innovative wear and maintenance component solutions. Working closely with design, product, and manufacturing teams, you will help verify product performance, durability, quality, and customer value through laboratory and field testing.In this role, you'll have the opportunity to solve complex engineering challenges, influence product improvements, and contribute to the successful launch of new products. This is an excellent opportunity for an engineer who enjoys hands-on testing, data analysis, root cause investigation, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver world-class solutions for our customers.What You Will Do:Plan, coordinate, and execute product validation and verification testing to evaluate performance, durability, reliability, and quality requirements.Analyze test results and data to identify trends, assess product performance, and provide recommendations for improvement.Support troubleshooting and root cause investigations for product and test failures.Collaborate with design, manufacturing, quality, and supplier teams throughout the product development lifecycle.Document and communicate test plans, results, and technical recommendations to key stakeholders.Assist in developing and improving test methods, equipment, and validation processes.Support field testing activities and help ensure products meet customer expectations and business objectives.Promote a strong commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement in all testing and validation activities.Education requirement: Candidates should possess a Bachelors degree or demonstrate equivalent knowledge through professional expertise.What skills you will have:Technical Excellence: Knowledge of Ground Engaging Tools (GET), undercarriage systems, or similar heavy equipment components, with the ability to evaluate product performance, durability, reliability, and quality.Product Testing: Proven ability to plan, execute, and analyze laboratory and field validation testing, including test method development, data collection, and performance assessment.Analytical Thinking: Strong aptitude for interpreting test data, identifying trends, and translating findings into actionable recommendations that improve product performance and customer value.Troubleshooting Technical Problems: Demonstrated success investigating product and test failures, performing root cause analysis, and partnering with cross-functional teams to implement effective corrective actions.Top candidates will also have: Working knowledge of Creo for reviewing engineering designs, drawings, and product models.Familiarity with Data Acquisition Tool Kit (DATK) or similar data collection and analysis tools used in product validation and testing.Additional Information: This position requires the candidate to work onsite five days a week at the Peoria, IL facility. Domestic relocation assistance is NOT available for this position.Visa sponsorship is NOT available with this position.This position may require up to 25% travel.#LISummary Pay Range:$89,210.00 - $133,810.00Compensation 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 benefitsLife InsuranceParental leaveAdoption benefitsTuition Reimbursement* These benefits also apply to part-time employeesThis position requires working onsite five days a week.Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.Posting Dates:August 25, 2026 - September 1, 2026Any 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.Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.SummaryLocation: Peoria, IllinoisType: Full time