Lead Automation & Integration Project Engineer

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The Manufacturing Technology & Solutions (MT&S) team is currently seeking an experienced Automation Integration & Project Engineer to deliver world‑class support to our business unit customers in our global manufacturing support network. This role offers a unique opportunity to lead and support New Capital Introduction (NCI) projects, ensuring that new equipment and technologies are seamlessly integrated into Caterpillar’s manufacturing footprint.

In this role you will provide the technical expertise necessary to develop and implement complex manufacturing operations and support sophisticated machines and related equipment. The position bears primary responsibility for equipment safety and reliability, integrity of machine data, and technological innovation. You will be instrumental in delivering technical support for automation that supports robotics, heat‑treating manufacturing equipment, processes, controls architecture, and technology development across global operations.

• Lead various NCI automation and robotic integration projects.
• Lead new technology initiatives on industrial robotics, networking, and process control.
• Design, installation oversight, and validate electrical architecture for new and existing manufacturing equipment (control engineering).
• Create specifications in support of new equipment builds and upgrades.
• Oversee the integration of databases and reporting platforms.
• Participate in and manage machine programming, and material handling/robotics.
• Collect and report production data from various systems to improve quality and process efficiency.
• Participate in many projects concurrently with cross‑functional teams.
• Develop project scope to address business challenges and opportunities.
• Oversee project progress and costs; communicate status with stakeholders and functional areas; address and resolve problems.
• Direct project staffing; motivate and develop project team members.
• Manage multiple or complex engineering projects involving multiple functions, organizations, products, or value chains.

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Education:

Degree in accredited Manufacturing, Electrical, Computer Science, or Materials Science Engineering curriculum.

• Project Management

Skills:

• Lead cross‑functional teams to deliver manufacturing projects on time and within budget.
• Define project scope, timelines, and deliverables while managing risks and resources.
• Coordinate with suppliers, engineering, and operations to ensure alignment and execution.
• Track progress and communicate status updates to stakeholders.
• Knowledge of external partner provider management processes and ability to manage business relationships with external suppliers/integrators.

• Manufacturing Process Design And Development:

• Design and implement efficient manufacturing processes that meet quality and safety standards.
• Optimize workflows, tooling, and equipment layout to improve throughput and reduce waste.
• Validate new processes through pilot runs and data analysis.
• Collaborate with design and quality teams to ensure manufacturability of new products.

• Problem Solving:

• Identify root causes of production issues using structured problem‑solving methods.
• Implement corrective and preventive actions to eliminate recurring problems.
• Apply data‑driven approaches to improve process stability and product quality.
• Facilitate cross‑functional problem‑solving workshops to drive continuous improvement.

• Lean Manufacturing:

• Apply lean principles to eliminate waste and improve flow in manufacturing operations.
• Knowledge of kaizen process and support kaizen events.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify improvement opportunities.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement across teams and departments.

This position requires the candidate to work onsite five days a week at the Mossville, IL office.

Domestic relocation assistance is available. Visa sponsorship is available. This position may require up to 40% travel.

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