Automation & Controls Engineer – CNC Machining Centers

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.

Definition .     The Automation & Controls Engineer is responsible for providing technical support, maintenance, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of automated systems, industrial robots, PLCs, HMIs, and equipment associated with CNC machining centers. This position ensures equipment reliability, uptime, and operational continuity through effective problem-solving, automation initiatives, and collaboration with Production, Engineering, Quality, and Maintenance teams .     What   you will   do :    Provide technical support and maintenance for automated systems, industrial robots, PLCs, HMIs, control systems, and CNC machining equipment.   Diagnose ,   program , and troubleshoot automated equipment to maximize system availability, reliability, and operational performance.   Lead and implement automation and continuous improvement projects focused on safety, quality, productivity, and downtime reduction.   Analyze equipment performance data and failure trends to identify improvement opportunities and increase operational efficiency.   Collaborate with Production, Engineering, Quality, and Maintenance teams to optimize processes, implement standards, and improve equipment performance.   Train operators and technicians on automated systems, equipment functionality, and best practices.   Document troubleshooting activities, root cause analyses, corrective actions, and project progress.     Degree Requirement    Bachelor’s degree in Engineering   or related field required   E nglish   Advanced     Skills you will have   Industrial Automation/Automatic Control   Strong knowledge of industrial automation systems used in manufacturing environments.   Proficiency in PLCs, HMIs, sensors, actuators, drives, and industrial communication networks.   Ability to support, maintain, and optimize automated production systems.   Understanding of automation principles, equipment safety standards, and operational efficiency improvements.   T echnical Troubleshooting   Ability to diagnose and resolve technical issues involving control systems, robotics, CNC equipment, and industrial machinery.   Knowledge of structured troubleshooting and root cause analysis methodologies.   Proficiency in using diagnostic software, tools, technical documentation, and test equipment.   Strong analytical skills to identify, prioritize, and resolve production-critical failures   Problem Solving   Expertise in applying structured problem-solving methodologies such as 5 Why Analysis, Fishbone, and Root Cause Analysis.   Ability to identify recurring issues and implement sustainable corrective actions.   Strong decision-making skills in fast-paced manufacturing environments.   Capability to document findings, corrective actions, and continuous improvement opportunities   Robotics / Computer-Controlled Machinery   Hands-on knowledge of industrial robotic systems and automated manufacturing equipment.   Understanding of robotic programming fundamentals, motion control, and safety requirements.   Proficiency in supporting CNC machining centers and robot-integrated production cells.   Ability to identify and implement automation and robotics improvement opportunities .   Project Management   Knowledge of automation and continuous improvement project execution.   Ability to develop project plans, timelines, milestones, and resource requirements.   Proficiency in coordinating