2027 Corporate Intern - Engineering

Caterpillar Brazil; Lafayette (IN); On-site; USD 34,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing Stipend

Relocation Assistance

Medical coverage

Paid Time Off

Paid Holidays

Job summary

Caterpillar Inc. invites students to join our Corporate Engineering Intern program, working alongside engineers on real projects in Peoria, IL.

Interns gain hands-on experience from concept through production, with opportunities to present results and network with management across the company. The program emphasizes learning through assignments, team interactions, and performance evaluation, with exposure to embedded software, controls, and data analytics.

Qualifications

• Must be enrolled full-time in ABET accredited degree program and available for internship.
• Must have completed at least 24 semester hours before start date.
• Minimum 3.0/4.0 GPA, no rounding, at time of application.
• Must relocate to Peoria, IL area for duration of internship.
• Previous technical internship or project leadership is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to Product Design and cross-functional collaboration from concept to production.
• Perform CFD/FEA analysis and 3D modelling to optimize components and systems.
• Assist in test/validation activities and troubleshoot issues on projects.
• Develop control algorithms using MATLAB/Simulink for engine and powertrain systems.
• Assist with embedded software activities and software validation in testing environments.
• Engage in data analytics using Python to support engineering decisions.

Skills

Analytical skills

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Problem solving

Python

MATLAB/Simulink

Education

ABET-accredited degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Agricultural or Aerospace Engineering

Completed at least 24 semester hours

GPA 3.0/4.0 required

Must relocate to Peoria, IL area

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

ANSYS CFD/FEA

Job description

Career Area: Students and Graduates

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.

About the Role

Caterpillar's Corporate Engineering Intern program seeks students currently enrolled in a four-year university to work alongside engineering professionals to learn and apply themselves to project work within their teams. Interns will have assignments that provide them with experience and significant learning opportunities. In addition to this work, Interns can network with management throughout the company to learn about Caterpillar areas outside their assigned team. Students can deepen their business skills in their assignments through team and business partner interactions, develop their skills, conduct presentations, and measure their success through the performance and evaluation process.

What You Will Do

• Product Design: Engineer components & systems for Caterpillar products to meet our customers’ needs. Deliver solutions by leading collaboration with cross functional teams throughout our value chain starting from the initial concept through production.
• Simulation/Performance Analysis: Engage with analysis methods such as CFD - Computational Fluid Dynamics (ANSYS), FEA - Finite Element Analysis, 3D modelling, root cause investigation; system/subsystem/component design optimization, structural dynamics, development and optimization of Engine, Aftertreatment, Battery, Fuel Cell, Powertrain, and/or Machine System performance.
• Test/Validation/Hands on: Apply strong mechanical engineering understanding in a test/validation (hands-on) environment, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with others for optimal results.
• Controls Development: Develop/Implement control system algorithms using MATLAB/Simulink for various control systems including but not limited to engine controllers, machine implement controllers as well as powertrain controllers. Will be responsible for understanding the feature requirement, implementing it as well as testing it prior to a production roll out.
• Electronic Components: Design and test various electronic control modules as well as various electronic components. Work with various internal Caterpillar clients to understand controller/component requirements, work with suppliers on design and validation of the components, as well as testing the components in various environments. Other duties may include design of Printed Circuit Board schematics as well as perform digital/analog/power circuit analysis & testing and ensuring that FMEAs [Failure Mode and Effects Analysis] are conducted and documented to meet stringent Caterpillar quality requirements.
• Embedded Software Development: Develop embedded software in C, C# and/or C++ for various electronic control modules. Some examples of embedded software development applications include Datalink communications, Inputs and Outputs [Sensors and actuators], speed calculation, injection/spark timing, memory management, CPU optimization, multi core design and implementation etc. In addition, some areas of work include developing scripts in Python/Visual Basic for automation.
• Software Validation/Verification for Electronic Systems: Verify functionality of a feature or control system algorithm on a HIL [Hardware in the Loop] simulator bench or a SIL [Software in the loop] system. Understand requirements of the feature and/or the schematics of the controller / control system, verify functionality and debug/report anomalies to the development team and help validate fixes.
• Engineering Data Analytics: Leverage ability to write and understand computer code, especially Python; apply knowledge of data analytics/data science, machine learning concepts/tools, and engineering and statistics fundamentals.
• Process Engineering: Apply mechanical, manufacturing, systems and/or industrial engineering knowledge to analyze and optimize an engineering process or processes. Will have the opportunity to leverage problem-solving and communication skills.

What You Have – Skills and Experiences

In this role, you will have the opportunity to contribute your unique skills and experiences. Below are some of the most critical skills:

• Analytical skills, initiating ideas, troubleshooting, root cause analysis, problem-solving, and critical thinking capabilities
• Knowledge of engineering principles, theory, and engineering experience gained through projects, internships, and/or relevant work experience
• Fundamental understanding of engineering for a manufacturing environment, ability to design and implement materials, structures, machines, devices, systems and processes that safely realize a desired objective or invention
• Organize and manage multiple projects simultaneously, ability to quickly gain and effectively apply new skills & knowledge
• Success in collaborating with others of diverse cultures, interpersonal styles, and abilities
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Participate in and build on our inclusive, constructive, and productive work environment
• Ensure all team members' contributions are recognized and valued

Internship Program Qualifications

• Must be enrolled full-time in a 4-year university/college pursuing an ABET accredited degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Agricultural or Aerospace Engineering; Engineering Technology; or similar technical based programs at the time of application and throughout the program
• Must have completed at least 24 semester hours from current institution before the start of the internship. If a transfer student, must have 12 semester hours completed at a 4-year university
• Must have a minimum 3.0/4.0 cumulative grade point average (no rounding) at time of application from current institution* (*Current 1st year/1st semester students at current institutions may utilize high school, college/community college, or trade school transcripts to meet a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average at time of graduation)
• Must maintain 3.0/4.0 cumulative grade point average (no rounding) prior to start of internship
• Must be able to relocate to Peoria, IL area or an indicated work location for the duration of the internship and complete daily work commute using reliable transportation
• Top Candidates May Also Have Project or team leadership experience
• Previous technical internship, co-op, or research/relevant experience
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Additional Information

Must attach your resume and an unofficial copy of your transcript to your application. Applicants will be considered for positions throughout the United States. Primary location for these positions is in the Peoria, Illinois area, with a number of positions in other locations. Sponsorship is NOT available for this position. This position requires working onsite five days a week.

Why Choose Caterpillar?

We’re a values-driven company where you’ll feel your work matters—whether you’re optimizing machine performance, writing embedded code, or designing the next innovation in clean energy. You’ll gain access to top-tier mentorship, technical resources, and real ownership of your work from day one.

Pay & Benefits

Pay Range: $25.00 - $43.00

Intern Hourly Rate: An intern's hourly rate is based on the major/degree being pursued and the number of completed academic hours achieved before the start of the internship.

• Accrued Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Volunteer Day
• Housing Stipend
• Relocation Assistance
• Medical coverage
• Voluntary benefits

This position requires working onsite five days a week. Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates: August 19, 2026 - December 13, 2026

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.

We hire smart, friendly people and it shows in our culture. We hold ourselves to high standards and make sure our values of integrity, excellence, teamwork, commitment and sustainability come to life in the way we work. We make sure our employees feel continuously challenged while also supported. We provide professional growth opportunities, including leadership programs. We celebrate the diversity of our team, while also working together as one Caterpillar. Our culture, like everything at our company, is made possible by each employee’s contribution. Person by person, we create the environment we work in, and we are proud of the Caterpillar we’ve built.