QA Lead - Python Automation

Career Area: Engineering 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 As a Validation Lead for Terrain for Grading & Loading (TfGL), you will play a key role in maintaining the quality, reliability, and performance of Terrain onboard software solutions. You will develop and execute validation strategies, create and maintain automated test scripts using Python and other test tools, execute feature and system-level test cases, identify and track defects, and collaborate closely with software, systems, and product teams to improve product quality and streamline validation processes. You will be responsible for the verification and validation of Current Generation Terrain for Grading & Loading features across simulation, lab, machine, and field environments, ensuring high-quality releases that meet customer and business expectations. Key Responsibilities Lead verification and validation activities for Terrain for Grading & Loading (TfGL) features and software releases Develop and maintain automated test scripts and validation frameworks using python to improve test coverage and efficiency. Create and execute functional, integration, regression, and end-to-end test cases across lab, simulation environments Analyze software defects, perform root cause investigation, and drive issue resolution with development teams. Develop validation plans, test strategies, and coverage matrices aligned with product requirements. Validate new features, customer enhancements, and maintenance releases to ensure product quality and reliability. Collaborate with Product Owners, Systems Engineers, Architects, and Software Engineers to define validation approaches. Analyze logs, telemetry, and test results to identify quality risks and recommend corrective actions. Drive continuous improvement initiatives in test automation, validation processes, and quality metrics. Mentor junior validation engineers and promote software quality best practices across the team. Support customer pilots, field follow programs, and production deployments to ensure successful feature adoption. Collaborate with product support teams on troubleshooting customer reported high severity issues Technical Skills Required: Skills Python Selenium PyTest Test Automation Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) Jenkins Git API Testing SQL Linux Required Skills and Qualifications Strong understanding of Embedded/Onboard Systems Validation Proficiency in Agile and Scrum methodologies. Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work with cross-functional teams. Analytical mindset for prioritizing features and evaluating product progress. Problem-solving and decision-making capabilities to maximize team and product value Strong understanding of "Test Automation frameworks" Domain / System Understanding (Preferred) System-level understanding of Caterpillar machines. Mining Technology & Machine Systems Knowledge Experience with machine control, robotics, or guidance systems. Knowledge of industrial safety and field deployment. Degree Required Bachelor’s or master’s in computer science, Electronics, or related field. 6+ years of experience as a QA engineer/lead in guiding software validation teams. This position requires working onsite five days a week. This position requires working onsite five days a week. Relocation is available for this position. Posting Dates: July 14, 2026 - July 19, 2026 Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community. There’s more to work at Caterpillar than just the work itself. We hire smart, friendly people and it shows in our culture. We hold ourselves to high standards and make sure our values of integrity, excellence, teamwork, commitment and sustainability come to life in the way we work. We make sure our employees feel continuously challenged while also supported. We provide professional growth opportunities, including leadership programs. We celebrate the diversity of our team, while also working together as one Caterpillar. Our culture, like everything at our company, is made possible by each employee’s contribution. Person by person, we create the environment we work in, and we are proud of the Caterpillar we’ve built.