2027 Corporate Parallel Co-op Program

Experience Champaign Urbana; Champaign (IL); On-site; USD 34,440 - 59,236; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid holidays

Accrued Paid Time Off (PTO)

Housing stipend

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Caterpillar Inc. invites engineering, technology, and computer science students to join their Co-Op Program in Champaign, Illinois. This role involves full-time employment during summer and part-time work during the school year, offering paid experiences in product development.

Responsibilities include engineering system components, applying testing methodologies, and developing algorithms for control systems. The position provides competitive pay ranging from $25.00 to $43.00 per hour based on academic background. Caterpillar is committed to creating a diverse workforce.

Qualifications

• Full-time enrollment at a 4-year university pursuing an ABET-accredited degree.
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 required.

Responsibilities

• Engineer components for Caterpillar products.
• Apply mechanical engineering fundamentals in testing.
• Develop and implement control system algorithms.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Troubleshooting

Critical thinking

Strong communication skills

Education

ABET-accredited degree in Engineering

Tools

Matlab

Python

C/C++

Job description

Career Area: Students and Graduates

Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.

When you join Caterpillar, you are part of a global team that cares not just about the work we do but also about each other. We are makers, problem solvers, and future world builders, 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 where we live. Together we are building a better world for everyone.

About the Role

The Parallel Co‑Op Program is continuous employment for engineering, technology, and computer science students focused on product development at Caterpillar. It is an early talent pipeline designed to identify and develop the best talent. We provide interesting work and mentoring throughout the year, and students work full‑time in‑person during the summer and part‑time during the school year, partnering with product development work teams each year.

Responsibilities

• Product Design: Engineer components and systems for Caterpillar products to meet customer needs, leading collaboration with cross‑functional teams from concept through production.
• Simulation/Performance Analysis: CFD (ANSYS), FEA, 3D modelling, root‑cause investigation; system/subsystem/component design optimization, structural dynamics, and performance development for engines, aftertreatment, battery, fuel cell, powertrain, and machine systems.
• Test/Validation/Hands‑on: Apply mechanical engineering fundamentals in a test/validation environment, troubleshoot issues, and collaborate for optimal results.
• Controls Development: Develop and implement control system algorithms using Matlab/Simulink for various engines, machines, and powertrains, understanding feature requirements and testing before production rollout.
• Electronic Components: Design and test electronic control modules and components, coordinate with internal clients to understand requirements, work with suppliers on design and validation, and perform PCB schematic design and digital/analog/power circuit analysis. Conduct FMEAs to meet quality requirements.
• Embedded Software Development: Create embedded software in C, C#, and/or C++ for control modules; develop communications, sensor/actuator interfaces, speed calculations, injection/spark timing, memory management, CPU optimization, multi‑core design, and scripts in Python/Visual Basic for automation.
• Software Validation/Verification for Electronic Systems: Verify functionality on HIL/SIL benches, understand feature requirements or schematics, debug/analyze anomalies, and assist in validating fixes.
• Engineering Data Analytics: Write and understand code (Python), perform analytics/data science, apply machine‑learning concepts/tools, and leverage engineering and statistical fundamentals.
• Process Engineering: Apply mechanical, manufacturing, systems, or industrial engineering knowledge to analyze and optimize processes, using problem‑solving and communication skills.

What You Have – Skills and Experiences

• Analytical skills, initiative, troubleshooting, root‑cause analysis, problem‑solving, and critical thinking.
• Knowledge of engineering principles and theory gained through projects, internships, or work experience.
• Fundamental understanding of manufacturing engineering, ability to design and implement materials, structures, machines, devices, systems, and processes safely for desired objectives.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and quickly apply new skills.
• Success in collaborating with diverse cultures, interpersonal styles, and abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Co‑Op Program Qualifications

• Full‑time enrollment at a 4‑year university or college pursuing an ABET‑accredited degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Agricultural, or Aerospace Engineering, or Engineering Technology at the time of application and throughout the program.
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (no rounding).

Top Candidates Will Also Have

• Management experience.
• Previous technical internship, co‑op, or research/relevant experience.
• Current intern or trainee status at Caterpillar.

Additional Information

• Locations include Peoria, Illinois; Champaign and Decatur, Illinois; West Lafayette/Lafayette, Indiana; and Tucson, Arizona.
• During the summer, the position requires onsite work five days a week at the assigned location.
• During the school year, students at the University of Illinois, Purdue University, and The Ohio State University must work from the local campus office on assigned days.
• Sponsorship is NOT available.

Summary Pay Range

$25.00 – $43.00 per hour* (Hourly rate depends on major/degree and academic hours completed prior to program start).

Co‑Op Benefits

• Paid holidays
• Accrued Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Volunteer Day
• Housing stipend and relocation assistance (if eligible)
• Optional medical coverage
• Optional voluntary benefits

Intern Benefits

• Accrued Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid holidays
• Paid Volunteer Day
• Housing stipend
• Relocation assistance
• Medical coverage
• Voluntary benefits

*Hourly rate is based on the major/degree pursued and the number of completed academic hours prior to the start of the Co‑op.

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.