Engineering Corporate Intern Program - Product Development Track

About the Role

This 12‑week, 40‑hour‑per‑week internship is part of Caterpillar’s Corporate Engineering Intern program. Students will work alongside engineering professionals to learn and apply project work within their teams, network with management across the company, and develop business and technical skills through team and partner interactions.

Interns will take on diverse project responsibilities and gain hands‑on experience in multiple engineering domains:

• Product Design:
  Engineer components and systems for Caterpillar products, leading collaboration with cross‑functional teams from concept through production.
• Simulation/Performance Analysis:
  Apply CFD (ANSYS), FEA, 3D modeling, and root‑cause investigation to optimize system and component performance.
• Test/Validation/Hands‑on:
  Perform mechanical engineering‑focused testing and validation, troubleshoot issues, and collaborate for optimal results.
• Controls Development:
  Design and implement control system algorithms using MATLAB/Simulink for engine, machine implement, and powertrain controllers, including testing before production rollout.
• Electronic Components:
  Design, test, and validate electronic control modules and circuits; work with suppliers and internal clients to meet quality requirements.
• Embedded Software Development:
  Write embedded software in C, C#, and/or C++ for control modules; develop scripts in Python or Visual Basic for automation.
• Software Validation/Verification:
  Verify feature functionality on HIL or SIL platforms, debug anomalies, and support validation of fixes.
• Engineering Data Analytics:
  Use Python and concepts of data analytics, machine learning, and statistics to analyze engineering data.
• Process Engineering:
  Apply mechanical, manufacturing, and industrial engineering knowledge to analyze and optimize engineering processes.

• Analytical thinking, troubleshooting, root‑cause analysis, and problem‑solving skills.
• Knowledge of engineering principles and experience from projects, internships, or relevant work.
• Fundamental understanding of manufacturing environments and the ability to design and implement materials, structures, and systems that meet safety and performance goals.
• Project management ability with multiple concurrent projects and quick learning of new skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Collaboration with diverse cultures, interpersonal styles, and abilities.
• Respect for inclusive, constructive, and productive work environments.

• Full‑time enrollment in a 4‑year ABET‑accredited engineering program (Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Agricultural, Aerospace, Engineering Technology, or similar). Continuation in the program through internship completion.
• Completion of at least 24 semester hours at current institution before internship start (12 hours for transfer students).
• Minimum 3.0/4.0 cumulative GPA (no rounding) at application and maintained prior to internship start.
• Ability to relocate to Peoria, IL (or indicated work location) and commute reliably.
• Native English proficiency for written and verbal communication.

• Primary location:
  Peoria, IL (positions also available in other U.S. locations).
• Onsite work required five days a week.
• Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

• Accrued Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid holidays and volunteer day
• Housing stipend and relocation assistance
• Medical coverage and voluntary benefits (if eligible)

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.