Lead Simulation Engineer; Digital Twin

Job Summary

The Simulation & Digital Twin Engineer designs, develops, and integrates simulation and visualization capabilities that support Caterpillar’s next‑generation digital twin, machine behavior modeling, and interactive 3D experiences. The role combines simulation engineering, real‑time visualization, and 3D scene‑building using NVIDIA Omniverse and modern C++/Python tool chains. The engineer will build the behavioral logic, physics integrations, and visualization layers that enable accurate, high‑performance representations of Caterpillar machines, job sites, and workflows, while planning, architecting, and leading and mentoring the team.

• Develop and deploy simulation logic and behavioral models governing machine and system behavior, including kinematics, dynamics, and control‑system interactions.
• Integrate physics engines (e.g., PhysX, Omniverse Physics) to support realistic behavior and machine–environment interactions.
• Develop and execute model validation and verification plans, ensuring digital twins are accurate and numerically stable.
• Create high‑fidelity 3D models, scenes, and environments such as NVIDIA Omniverse and connect simulations to real‑time visualization dashboards and operator‑focused experiences.
• Implement automated test pipelines and document model correlations, limitations, and validation scoring.
• Contribute to toolchain and pipeline design, including scripting utilities, automated test frameworks, and modular code libraries.
• Collaborate across data engineering, autonomy, product, and engineering groups to ensure interoperability and alignment with business needs.
• Evaluate and implement new simulation libraries and rendering technologies that enhance simulation fidelity and performance.

• Experience designing, configuring, and integrating simulation and robotics product architectures.
• Ability to design, plan, and execute model validation and testing strategies, including automated test pipelines.

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of experience developing digital twins or simulation‑based systems in technology, aerospace, defense, heavy machinery, or automotive.
• Strong expertise in system‑level simulation and digital twin technologies, including multi‑physics modeling, data‑driven simulation, discrete‑event simulation, and machine‑learning‑based simulation.
• Expertise in data annotation and labelling technologies.
• Experience with NVIDIA Omniverse (USD workflows, Omniverse Kit/Code, PhysX, or Omniverse‑based pipeline development).
• Knowledge of other digital‑twin and real‑time simulation tools (Unity, Unreal Engine, Siemens NX/Teamcenter/Plant Simulation, Dassault 3
  
  DEXPERIENCE, Ansys Twin Builder, Rockwell Emulate3D, or similar).
• Familiarity with physics engines (PhysX, Omniverse Physics, Bullet, ODE, or equivalent) and experience integrating them.
• Strong hands‑on programming skills in C++ and Python for simulation logic, behavior modeling, and tooling.
• Experience validating simulation models and digital twins using test data correlation, scenario‑based testing, regression testing, and telematics/real‑world data.
• Ability to work cross‑functionally with engineering, autonomy, controls, software, and product teams, communicating complex technical concepts clearly.
• Experience modeling mechanical systems, hydraulics, heavy equipment, or robotics.
• Knowledge of 3D scene construction, rendering concepts, and UI development for real‑time visualization.
• Experience with cloud‑based simulation workflows, large‑scale data integration, or distributed simulation pipelines.

• This position requires full‑time work at the Irving, TX office (Dallas).
• Domestic relocation assistance is available.
• Visa sponsorship is not available.

$ – $

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
• Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
• 401(k) savings plans*
• Health Savings Account (HSA)*
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
• Health Lifestyle Programs*
• Employee Assistance Program*
• Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
• Career Development*
• Incentive bonus*
• Disability benefits
• Life Insurance
• Parental leave
• Adoption benefits
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Benefits also apply to part‑time employees

This position requires working onsite five days a week.

Relocation is available for this position.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

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

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.