About the Role / What You Will Do

Caterpillar is seeking high school STEM students enrolled in advanced courses or active in STEM clubs to collaborate with our engineering professionals on real projects.

As a STEM Student Trainee (SST), you will gain hands‑on experience, network with company leaders, and explore different areas of Caterpillar. Through teamwork and business interactions, you will sharpen your skills, present ideas, and track progress - while preparing for an exciting future in STEM.

What You Will Do

You will join a team with diverse project responsibilities and have valuable networking opportunities with Caterpillar employees at all levels. The program is a 40‑hour‑per‑week assignment lasting 8 weeks.

You can focus on building technical abilities in roles including:

• 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 initial concept through production.
• Simulation/Performance Analysis: 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: Will be responsible for designing and testing various electronic control modules as well as various electronic components. Will work with various internal Caterpillar clients to understand controller/component requirements, help design Printed Circuit Board layouts as well as perform digital/analog/power circuit analysis and testing. Other duties may include working with suppliers, testing the controllers/components in various environments, ensuring that FMEA's [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. Will have the opportunity to leverage problem‑solving and communication skills.

What You Have – Skills and Knowledge

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, clubs, and relevant work experience
• Fundamental understanding of engineering, 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

Internship Program Qualifications

• Must be 16 years of age by the start of the program
• You need to be a full‑time high school student when you apply.
• You need a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale at your current school (no rounding).
• Must have access to reliable transportation to get to and from work.

Top Candidates Might Have

• Led a project or team
• Participated in FIRST programs
• Completed a technical internship or research project
• Strong communication and people skills

Additional Information

• Be sure to attach your resume and an unofficial high school transcript. Applications without these documents may not be considered. (Tip: You can usually download an unofficial transcript from your school’s online portal or ask your school counselor for a copy.)
• Sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
• These positions are located in East Peoria, Pontiac, Mossville, Chillicothe, and Morton (Illinois); Alpharetta, Georgia; and Clayton and Sanford, North Carolina.

Summary Pay Range

$15.00 - $17.00*

* Hourly Rate is based solely on the student’s grade classification (junior, senior, or recent HS graduate) before the start of the internship.

STEM Student Trainee Benefits

• The total rewards package, beyond base salary, includes:
• Paid holiday
• Accrued Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Volunteer Day

Beyond the Important Project Work, STEM Student Trainees Will Enjoy

• A fun, interactive orientation
• Tours of our cutting‑edge manufacturing and research facilities
• Mentorship from experienced professionals
• Social events to connect with other students
• Networking with company leaders
• Building real‑world business skills
• Career chats with experts about your future

Final Details

Check your email often, including your junk or spam folder! That’s how we’ll communicate with you about next steps.

Want to know your application status? Log in to your candidate account on our careers website. Your status will always be updated there.

For more information, visit caterpillar.com. To connect with us on social media, visit caterpillar.com/social-media.

Intern Hour 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.

Intern Benefits

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

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position. The employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants requiring sponsorship tied to a specific employer. As a global company, Caterpillar offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S which can be found through our employment website at

Posting Dates

December 1, 2025 - March 12, 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.

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