Principal Software Application Development Engineer

Posted:
3/6/2026, 1:47:52 AM

Location(s):
California, United States ⋅ San Diego, California, United States

Experience Level(s):
Expert or higher ⋅ Senior

Field(s):
Software Engineering

Workplace Type:
On-site

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.

The Plant Systems team is seeking a Software Application Development Engineer to join a global, cross‑functional engineering organization. In this role, you will design, develop, qualify, and maintain new software applications in a collaborative, team‑based environment leveraging DevOps practices and Agile methodologies. This is a fast‑paced position with opportunities to work with emerging technologies as we build full‑stack display and visualization applications, as well as cybersecurity features that support our energy solutions portfolio.

Expected contributions include but are not limited to:

  • Identify, assess, and develop software solutions that address enterprise-level problem statements.
  • Lead end-to-end feature development efforts.
  • Mentor, train, and support the growth of team members.
  • Evaluate and implement solutions that enhance software efficiency, durability, scalability, and security.
  • Actively participate in detailed code reviews prior to feature release.
  • Develop, troubleshoot, and optimize code.

Minimum Qualifications :

  • BS in Computer Science or Computer Engineering
  • 10+ years programming experience
  • Strong background in Object-Oriented programming

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Proficient in C++/C#
  • Secure Web Development (Back-end and Front-End)
  • Node.js, CSS, and Vanilla JavaScript
  • Solid programming background
  • Experience working with Microsoft Windows Operating Systems, network programming, secure programming, and microservices
  • ​Working knowledge of turbomachinery control systems and hydro-mechanical systems
  • Great attention to detail
  • The ability to write and communicate ideas and issues clearly
  • Personal skills include ability to work well with others, team spirit, and flexibility with personal schedule to meet deadlines
  • Experience with test automation and build pipelines
  • Strong understanding of software design principals and patterns

Summary Pay Range:

$120,660.00 - $180,900.00

Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar. 

Benefits:

Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.

  • 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

       

* These 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. This employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as, H, L, TN, F, J, E, O. As a global company, Caterpillar offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S which can be found through our employment website at www.caterpillar.com/careers.

Posting Dates:

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.

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