Job Description

Career Area:

Engineering

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 Title: Senior Control Systems Engineer (SWL)

Salary: £49,500 rising to £61,000 depending on skills demonstrated

Contract Full time & permanent

Location: Desford, Leicestershire – domestic relocation will be considered

The Opportunity:

The Small Wheel Loader (SWL) Product Group, part of Caterpillar’s Building Construction Products (BCP), is seeking an innovative, self‑starting Senior Controls Engineer to join the team. In this role, you will develop, integrate, validate, and maintain complex electrical, electronic, and embedded software control systems for Loader products. Working closely with cross‑functional partners, you will lead system‑level architecture, controls and diagnostic requirements, electronic hardware integration, and validation activities to deliver robust, reliable machine performance across development and production programmes.

What you will do:

As a Senior Controls Engineer, you are accountable for, but not limited to:

• Lead the definition, planning, and delivery of machine‑level performance for New Product Introduction (NPI), New Technology Introduction (NTI), and product lifecycle support

• Develop and integrate control strategies and algorithms to optimise productivity, efficiency, response, and reliability across the SWL product line

• Drive system architecture and requirements flow‑down, working closely with engine, powertrain, and hardware teams to achieve optimised machine performance

• Plan and execute system‑level validation through FMEAs, validation workshops, end‑of‑line testing, and on‑machine evaluation

• Evaluate and integrate new and emerging technologies (e.g. electrification, autonomy) using virtual product development tools and existing drivetrain solutions

• Support commercial teams, manufacturing, dealers, and customers through technical input, troubleshooting, and performance evaluation

NB. The panel cannot make assumptions when shortlisting therefore please demonstrate your qualifications and experience on your CV relevant to the criteria outlined.

What You Can Demonstrate:

Level: Working Knowledge

• Systems Thinking: Demonstrates an understanding of how mechanical, electrical, electronic, and software elements interact within the machine, enabling effective system architecture, requirements flow‑down, and optimisation of machine‑level performance.

• Analytical Thinking: Applies data‑driven analysis and engineering judgement to assess machine performance, compare technical solutions, and support decisions that improve productivity, efficiency, and reliability.

• Problem Solving: Diagnoses control system, software, or machine performance issues by identifying root causes and implementing practical solutions across development, validation, and production environments.

• Effective Communication: Clearly conveys technical concepts, system behaviour, and performance outcomes to cross‑functional teams, suppliers, manufacturing partners, and customers through reports, presentations, and day‑to‑day collaboration.

What You May Have:

• Apply knowledge of Wheel Loaders or similar construction equipment to inform practical, system‑level control decisions aligned to real operating conditions and customer use.

• Design and validate model‑based embedded control systems using MATLAB/Simulink to deliver robust, high‑performing machine functionality.

• Integrate and troubleshoot embedded software and machine systems using tools such as Git, debuggers, and compilers during development and production.

Pending the number of applications, the criteria for the position may be enhanced to facilitate shortlisting.

What You Will Get
One Company, Limitless Opportunities

Caterpillar is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. We do business on every continent, principally operating through three primary segments – Construction Industries, Resource Industries, and Energy & Transportation – and providing financing and related services through our Financial Products segment.

Careers at Caterpillar are limitless, we have opportunities in Engineering, Human Resources, Manufacturing, Marketing, Sales, Supply Chain and so much more. You can create the career you want. It’s your time and talent, make it count.

Our Sustainability Commitment

Caterpillar has a long-standing commitment to sustainability, one of our five Values in Action. It is part of who we are and what we do. We actively lead sustainable green initiatives to preserve the environment, help reduce poverty with the Caterpillar Foundation and stay involved in the communities we help build.

Benefits 27 days annual leave + bank holidays, opportunity to buy additional holiday, Bonus, contributory pension scheme - Caterpillar will double the employee's contribution up to 10%, contributory share scheme - Caterpillar will match 50% of the employee's contribution, Employee Support Networks – join groups that offer support, connection, and a sense of community, optional flexible benefits including access to private health and dental care plans, EV car lease etc

Travel up to 10% to include global travel

Posting Dates:

April 2, 2026 - April 17, 2026

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply

Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community