Hydraulics Test Engineer

Job Description:

Test Engineer to support second-shift testing and validation activities for large mining and construction equipment. This role serves as the primary overnight technical resource responsible for monitoring test systems, investigating failures, diagnosing root causes, and providing troubleshooting guidance to production and maintenance teams.

Unlike a traditional mechanic role, this position focuses on technical problem-solving, system diagnostics, and independent troubleshooting rather than routine repairs. The successful candidate will leverage mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and electronic diagnostic experience to evaluate failed tests, identify likely causes, and help drive resolution of issues impacting product quality and performance.

This position supports some of Caterpillar's largest wheeled machines, including mining trucks, wheel loaders, motor graders, and scrapers.

Key Responsibilities

Test Monitoring & Diagnostics

• Monitor multiple equipment test cells remotely from a centralized office environment.
• Review and analyze test results to identify failures, anomalies, and out-of-spec conditions.
• Investigate test failures and determine likely root causes.
• Provide technical recommendations regarding failed components, system issues, or operating conditions.
• Collaborate with maintenance, manufacturing, and engineering teams to resolve problems impacting production.

Troubleshooting & Technical Analysis

• Interpret diagnostic information, service codes, and machine data.
• Read and utilize electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical schematics to troubleshoot equipment issues.
• Trace electrical circuits and component connectivity using voltage, continuity, and related diagnostic methods.
• Assist in identifying hydraulic system issues including cavitation, abnormal pump behavior, contamination, fluid concerns, and performance degradation.
• Occasionally recreate machine issues when necessary to support root cause identification.

Test Engineering Support

• Support testing and validation activities following equipment assembly.
• Work with established acceptance criteria and testing requirements.
• Escalate complex technical issues when appropriate while maintaining ownership of overnight troubleshooting activities.
• Serve as the primary second-shift resource for progressing technical issues independently.

Communication & Documentation

• Document troubleshooting findings and recommendations.
• Communicate technical observations clearly to incoming day-shift engineering teams.
• Support continuous improvement efforts related to testing, quality, and validation processes.

Required Qualifications

• 3-5+ years of troubleshooting experience in one or more of the following:
• Heavy equipment maintenance
• Diesel technology
• Construction equipment service
• Automotive diagnostics
• Industrial maintenance
• Hydraulic systems troubleshooting
• Electrical systems diagnostics
• Strong mechanical aptitude and independent problem-solving skills.
• Ability to read and interpret:
• Electrical schematics
• Hydraulic schematics
• Parts diagrams and blueprints
• Service and diagnostic information
• Experience diagnosing equipment faults using logical troubleshooting methodology.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision during second-shift operations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Caterpillar equipment experience.
• Previous experience as a field service technician or maintenance technician.
• Familiarity with mining or large construction equipment.
• Experience utilizing diagnostic software and service tools.
• Knowledge of low-voltage electrical systems.
• Prior experience supporting manufacturing, testing, or validation environments.

Top Skills

Must-Have Skills

• Advanced troubleshooting and root cause analysis
• Electrical schematic interpretation
• Hydraulic system diagnostics
• Mechanical aptitude
• Independent decision making
• Critical thinking
• Service technician mindset
• Technical problem solving

Preferred Skills

• Diesel engine knowledge
• Heavy equipment maintenance
• Diagnostic software utilization
• Blueprint interpretation
• Manufacturing support experience
• Test and validation exposure