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Automation Engineer

Caterpillar

Caterpillar

Software Engineering
Decatur, IL, USA
Posted on Jan 7, 2025

Career Area:

Manufacturing

Job 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.

Role Definition

Caterpillar Decatur is currently hiring for 2 Automation Engineer’s. As an Automation Engineer you will be responsible for designing, programming, and implementing automated machinery and processes within a manufacturing environment, including tasks like system integration, troubleshooting, and process optimization, often requiring strong technical skills in programming, robotics, and other industrial automation technologies to improve production efficiency and quality

Responsibilities

  • Analyzing production data to identify areas for automation and optimization, implementing changes to improve efficiency and quality
  • Developing automation solutions by designing layouts, selecting equipment, and creating detailed specifications for new automated systems
  • Leading automation projects from conception to completion, managing timelines, budgets, and resources
  • Develop and utilizing data analysis tools to identify trends and optimize production processes.
  • Writing PLC code, robot programming, and configuring software for automated systems using relevant industrial automation platforms.
  • Responsible for developing test process, equipment’s and executing testing procedures to ensure the quality of products throughout the manufacturing process by analyzing production test data.
  • Conduct testing on manufactured products using specialized equipment, recording data and analyzing results to identify potential issues and Identify root causes of product defects and propose solutions.
  • Ensure proper calibration and functionality of automation equipment, performing routine maintenance as needed.
  • Build systems that collect, manage, and convert raw data into usable information and connect with cloud sources and prepare dashboard to interpret.
  • Work closely with manufacturing engineers, production teams, and other stakeholders to ensure successful automation implementation and with design engineers to ensure testability of new products
  • Understanding of Lean manufacturing methodologies to optimize production flow.

Degree Requirement

Degree in Engineering or Technology with relevant experience or equivalent experience desired in relevant function.

Skill Descriptors

Manufacturing Process and Equipment

Automation engineer should possess strong technical skills in automation systems, manufacturing process planning with knowledge on manufacturing processes, quality control, problem-solving abilities, project management skills, data analysis, excellent communication, and a keen eye for detail.

  • Automation Systems Expertise:

Deep understanding of automated systems like robotics, PLC programming, vision systems, and their integration into assembly lines.

  • Process Optimization:

Analyzing and improving manufacturing processes to increase efficiency and reduce waste.

  • Quality Control:

Implementing quality control measures to ensure product consistency and adherence to standards.

  • Project Management:

Overseeing the design, implementation, and maintenance of automated assembly lines, meeting project deadlines and budgets.

  • Data Analysis:

Utilizing data analysis tools to identify trends and optimize production processes.

  • Problem-Solving:

Diagnosing and troubleshooting issues within the automated assembly line.

  • Technical Documentation:

Creating and maintaining detailed technical documentation for automated systems

  • CAD Software Proficiency:

Ability to use CAD software (like SolidWorks, AutoCAD) to design and model components and assembly lines

Lean Manufacturing:

  • Discusses considerations for work cell design and effectiveness monitoring.
  • Finds solution for key technical and people problems associated with transformation to lean.
  • Explains issues and considerations of implementing lean in own function or area.
  • Selects and utilizes tools, techniques and measurements associated with a lean assessment.
  • Explains benchmarks and measures of effectiveness of lean.
  • Evaluates benefits, drawbacks and appropriateness of alternative processes and technologies.

Manufacturing Safety:

  • Consults on the use of new tools and techniques for safety protection.
  • Performs safety inspections to assure compliance with OSHA requirements.
  • Designs and implements emergency response processes and procedures.
  • Promotes workplace safety among supervisors and workers; communicates safety rules and regulations.
  • Assesses and reports unusual or new safety hazards or violations; initiates corrective action.
  • Ensures that all employees and contractors comply with relevant safety policies and regulations.

Manufacturing Standards:

• Consults on development and implementation of cross-functional standards.

• Participates in the development of organizational policies and practices.

• Develops and uses control and monitoring mechanisms for adherence.

• Collaborates with other functions on establishing and documenting joint standards.

• Participates in defining architectural principles and standards for organization.

• Ensures communication vehicles are effectively informing affected areas and employees.

Additional Information:

The primary location for this position is Decatur, IL

Domestic relocation assistance is available

Travel will be up to 5-10%

Sponsorship is not available

Summary Pay Range:

$95,640.00 - $143,520.00

Compensation 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:

Annual incentive bonus plan*

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holiday, Volunteer, Etc.)

401k savings plan

Health savings account (HSA)

Flexible spending accounts (FSAs)

Disability benefits

Life Insurance

Parental leave

Healthy Lifestyle Programs

Employee Assistance Programs

Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts

Tuition Reimbursement

Career Development

*Subject to annual eligibility and incentive plan guidelines.

Relocation is available for this position.Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position. This employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as, H, L, TN, F, J, E, O. As a global company, Caterpillar offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S which can be found through our employment website at www.caterpillar.com/careers.

Posting Dates:

January 6, 2025 - January 19, 2025

Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.

EEO/AA Employer. All qualified individuals - Including minorities, females, veterans and individuals with disabilities - are encouraged to apply.

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