2027 Leadership and Technical Development Program - Operations Leadership

Caterpillar Inc.; Peoria (IL); On-site; USD 81,370 - 122,060; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision benefits

401(k) savings plans

Paid time off plan

Career Development

Incentive bonus

Job summary

Caterpillar Inc. is offering an Operations Leadership Development Program designed to accelerate the development of entry-level talent within manufacturing. This 3-year program includes three 12-month rotations across diverse business areas such as Manufacturing Engineering and Supply Chain.

Ideal candidates have a degree in relevant engineering fields, a GPA of 2.8 or higher, and strong leadership skills. The position is based in Peoria, Illinois, with extensive opportunities for professional growth and network development.

Qualifications

• Minimum cumulative Grade Point Average of 2.8/4.0.
• Must be willing to relocate domestically based on business needs.
• 0-2 years of relevant manufacturing or supply chain/logistics experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Complete three 12-month rotations based on business needs.
• Travel and relocate to participating facilities in North America.
• Engage in diverse project responsibilities.

Skills

Decision making and critical thinking

Leading and developing others

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Organize and manage multiple projects

Education

Completed degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or other relevant degrees

Job description

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.

Career Area

Manufacturing

About The Role

Caterpillar's Leadership and Technical Development Program (LTDP) for Operations Leadership is a three-year rotational program designed to accelerate development of entry‑level talent and provide a solid foundation for meeting challenges within operations and manufacturing. Being part of the LTDP team offers you a broad exposure to Caterpillar, presents diverse project responsibilities, engages you in a global team, provides cross‑functional job experiences and includes valuable networking opportunities with all levels of Caterpillar leadership. This program provides the opportunity to build foundational technical and leadership skills for future success within the organization. Upon successful completion of the three-year program, Operations Leadership professionals will be placed in a role with the expectation of being in that role a minimum of two years.

What You Will Do

Professionals within the program will complete three 12-month rotations, which are defined based on business needs. You must be willing to travel and relocate to any participating facility in North America upon hire and throughout each rotation while in the program. You’ll join a team with diverse project responsibilities and have experiences including (but not limited to):

• Manufacturing Engineering
• Frontline Leadership
• Supply Chain & Logistics
• Procurement
• Quality

What You Have – Skills And Experiences

• Decision making and critical thinking, problem solving, initiative, and adaptability
• Leading and developing others
• Ability to work with others of diverse cultures, interpersonal styles, and abilities in a constructive and collaborative manner.
• Fundamental understanding of manufacturing standards and safety
• Organize and manage multiple projects simultaneously, ability to quickly gain and effectively apply new skills & knowledge
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Participate in and build on our inclusive, constructive, and productive work environment
• Ensure all team member’s contributions are recognized and valued

Program Qualifications

• Completed degree from a university/college by the start of the program in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or other relevant Engineering or Technology degrees
• Minimum cumulative Grade Point Average of 2.8/4.0 (no rounding)
• Must be willing to relocate domestically based upon business need for each rotation and for post-program assignment
• Program Start Dates: January & June 2027

Top Candidates May Also Have

• 0-2 years of relevant manufacturing or supply chain/logistics experience, which may include internships or academic projects
• Project or Team Leadership experience
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ideal for those building foundational skills in manufacturing & supply chain, generally within the first 0-2 years of their career

Additional Information

• Please attach your resume and an unofficial copy of your transcript to your application.
• Applicants will be considered for positions throughout the United States.
• Rotation locations can be anywhere in the U.S., including but not limited to the Midwest, Southeast, Texas, and Southern California.
• Relocation is available to those that qualify.
• Sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
• This position requires working onsite five days a week.

Summary Pay Range

$81,370.00 - $122,060.00

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

• 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

Posting Dates

July 6, 2026 - February 28, 2027

Equal Employment Opportunity

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.