Validation Lead

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.

Validation Lead Position Summary The Validation Lead is responsible for defining, planning, coordinating, and executing the machine-level validation strategy for Battery Electric Machines (BEM), including HEX, MWL, and WBT. This role serves as the technical leader for prototype validation activities, ensuring machine performance, reliability, durability, safety, and functional requirements are verified before production release. The Validation Lead will work closely with cross-functional teams including Systems, Controls, ePowertrain, Mechanical Design, Software, Hydraulics, Vehicle Integration, Manufacturing, Product Support, and Suppliers to develop and execute comprehensive validation plans. The successful candidate must possess strong machine-level knowledge and a solid understanding of electrified powertrain systems, including batteries, motors, inverters, charging systems, thermal management, and control strategies. Key Responsibilities Validation Strategy & Planning Develop and maintain machine-level validation strategies for HEX, MWL, and WBT electrification programs. Lead validation planning throughout NPI/NTI development phases. Define validation scope, objectives, acceptance criteria, and success metrics. Create and manage DVP&R (Design Verification Plan & Report). Ensure validation activities align with program milestones and gateway requirements. Prototype Validation Lead validation of all prototype machines, including: Engineering prototypes Pilot builds Production-intent machines

Coordinate machine commissioning and validation readiness reviews. Perform verification of: Functional performance Vehicle operability Energy consumption Productivity Reliability Durability Safety requirements

Drive issue identification, root cause analysis, corrective actions, and closure. Machine-Level System Validation Validate integrated machine performance including: ePowertrain Battery system Motor Inverter/X-in-1 DC/DC converter On-board charger High-voltage architecture Energy management Thermal Management Battery cooling Motor cooling Inverter cooling Hydraulic oil cooling System thermal performance Machine Functions Digging performance Loading performance Hauling performance Regenerative braking Operator experience Ride and drivability Cross-Functional Leadership Lead cross-functional validation reviews. Coordinate activities across: Systems Engineering ePowertrain Engineering Controls & Software Hydraulics Mechanical Design Product Performance Manufacturing Test & Validation Purchasing Suppliers

Align validation requirements and test plans across all stakeholders. Communicate program status, risks, issues, and mitigation plans to leadership. Testing & Data Analysis Develop test procedures and validation protocols. Support proving ground, field testing, customer trials, and laboratory testing. Review and analyze test data. Translate customer requirements into measurable validation targets. Generate test reports and validation summaries. Risk Management Identify validation risks early in product development. Develop mitigation and contingency plans. Ensure critical issues are tracked, escalated, and resolved. Support product readiness reviews and production release decisions. Required Qualifications Education Bachelor's degree or above in: Mechanical Engineering Electrical Engineering Vehicle Engineering Mechatronics Related Engineering Discipline

Experience 8+ years of engineering experience in off-highway equipment, construction machinery, automotive, or electrification systems. 3+ years leading verification and validation activities. Experience with prototype development and NPI programs. Experience with machine-level testing and performance validation.

Posting Dates: July 8, 2026 - July 30, 2026

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

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