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.

Role 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 

English 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. 

Technical 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 cross-functional teams and managing stakeholder communication. 

• Capability to monitor project progress, risks, deliverables, and status reporting. 

 

Additional Information: 

• The position is primarily based at Santa Catarina  

• Work schedule: Monday – Friday on site 

• Travel 25% 

 

Top Candidates will have:  

• Strong technical expertise in industrial automation systems and CNC machining centers, including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and control systems 

• Continuous improvement mindset. 

 

Final details: 

Caterpillar's Code of Conduct states that we will select, and place employees based on their qualifications for the job to be performed, without regard to race, religion, national origin, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age or disability. In this company we do not request pregnancy tests or HIV tests as requirements for entry, permanence, or promotion in employment. 

 

Please frequently check the email associated with your application, including the junk/spam folder, as this is the primary correspondence method. If you wish to know the status of your application – please use the candidate log-in on our career website as it will reflect any updates to your status. 

 

For more information, visit caterpillar.com. To connect with us on social media, visit caterpillar.com/social media. 

 

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This position requires working onsite five days a week.

 

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates:

August 5, 2026 - August 9, 2026

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

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