Lead Data Scientist, Cat Digital

Career Area:
Technology, Digital and Data
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.
Cat® Digital is the digital and technology arm of Caterpillar Inc., leveraging the latest technologies to build industry leading digital and analytics solutions for our customers and dealers. We've created an inclusive environment for you to explore your passions, make an impact and do the work that really matters. With over 1.5M connected assets worldwide, our business and in the industries, we serve, data is generated continuously by Cat® equipment using the latest technology, advanced analytics, telematics and AI capabilities to help our customers build a better world.
Job Summary:
The Digital Product Management Analytics team of Cat Digital is seeking a Lead Data Scientist to be a technical expert, working in a team environment, to support the development, integration & enhancement for Caterpillar Advanced Analytics and Gen-AI projects.
What You Will Do:

• Directing data gathering, data mining, and data processing processes in huge volume; creating appropriate data models.
• Exploring, promoting, and implementing semantic data capabilities through Natural Language Processing, text analysis and machine learning techniques.
• Leading to define requirements and scope of data analyses, presenting and reporting possible business insights to management using data visualization technologies.
• Conducting research on data model optimization and algorithms to improve effectiveness and accuracy on Customer data analyses.
• Working on 3-4 initiatives in parallel.
• Working on the Customer Behavior Data to come up with unique Insights.

What You Will Have:

• Business Statistics: Extensive experience with statistical tools, processes, and practices to describe business results in measurable scales; ability to use statistical tools and processes to assist in making business decisions.
• Accuracy and Attention to Detail: Extensive experience with the necessity and value of accuracy; ability to complete tasks with high levels of precision.
• Analytical Thinking: Extensive knowledge of techniques and tools that promote effective analysis; ability to determine the root cause of organizational problems and create alternative solutions that resolve these problems.
• Machine Learning: Extensive knowledge of principles, technologies and algorithms of machine learning; ability to develop, implement and deliver related systems, products and services.
• Programming Languages: Extensive knowledge of basic concepts and capabilities of applying Python programming to solve business challenges; ability to use tools, techniques and platforms in order to write and modify programming languages.
• Query and Database Access Tools: Extensive knowledge of data management systems; ability to use, support and access facilities for searching, extracting and formatting data for further use.
• Requirements Analysis: Working knowledge of tools, methods, and techniques of requirement analysis; ability to elicit, analyze and record required business functionality and non-functionality requirements to ensure the success of a system or software development project.
• Excellent Communication: Able to Communicate Complex Data, Methods and Results to Stakeholders in easy to digest language. Be the Bridge between the Stakeholders and the Junior Data Scientist.

Considerations for Top Candidates:

• Typically, a Masters, or PhD degree in Applied Statistics, Data Science, Business Analytics, Predictive Analytics, Business Intelligence & Analytics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering (Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical, Computer, Industrial, Agricultural, etc.), or equivalent technical degree
• Extensive experience applying Python (NumPy, SciPy, Pandas, etc.) programming to solve business challenges.
• Extensive experience with advanced data analysis and statistical methods such as regression, hypothesis testing, ANOVA, statistical process control, etc. (typically 8+ years)
• Extensive experience in practical applications of Machine Learning techniques such as Clustering, Logistic Regression, Random Forests, SVM or Neural Networks.
• Extensive experience in building Gen AI, Prompt Engineering, Local LLMs, RAGs, Agentic AI
• Advanced experience in quantifying the costs, benefits, risks and chances for success before recommending a course of action.
• Working experience with heavy equipment engineering.
• Working experience on Customer Segmentation and Personalized Marketing
• Good to have experience in design / development of heavy equipment (ex. automotive, aerospace, engine, transmission, construction, mining, industrial, etc.)
• In-depth technical and problem-solving skills and evidence of continuous learning in the analytics field
• Working knowledge with cloud technologies (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, etc.)
• Hands on experience with Snowflake and SQLs
• Advanced experience with version control / repositories such as GitHub
• Experience operating in an Agile environment
• Experience in working in Cross Functional Metrics Team Structure
• Must demonstrate strong initiative, interpersonal skills, and the ability to communicate effectively.

What You Will Get:
Working with a Fortune 100 leader, you can build your career on a global scale and take advantage of development opportunities with emerging technologies. We've created an inclusive environment for you to explore your passions, make an impact and do the work that really matters. Join Us.
Additional Information:
This position will have the option to be based out of our Chicago, IL and Peoria, IL offices.
#LI
#BI (used to post on Built In Chicago)
About Caterpillar
Caterpillar Inc. is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. For nearly 100 years, we've been helping customers build a better, more sustainable world and are committed and contributing to a reduced-carbon future. Our innovative products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value that helps customers succeed.
Summary Pay Range:
$126,000.00 - $204,720.00
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
Visa sponsorship is available for eligible applicants.
Posting Dates:
August 8, 2025 - August 24, 2025
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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