Pontiac IL Hiring 2027 Part-Time Engineering Intern

Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.

When you join Caterpillar, you are joining a global team that cares about the work it does and also about each other. The makers, problem solvers, and future world builders here are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. Together, the team is building a better world for everyone to enjoy.

Role Definition

As a Part-Time Intern in Engineering at Caterpillar's Pontiac facility, you will work with engineering, quality, maintenance, and production professionals supporting Caterpillar's Fuel System and Aftertreatment components. The role focuses on improving safety, quality, velocity, and cost while you build experience and grow your skills.

What You Will Do

This position is located in Pontiac, IL with an anticipated start in late spring or early summer 2027, with the opportunity to continue through the 2027-2028 school year. Part-time hours (10 to 15 per week) are expected during the school year, and full-time hours (40 per week) during the summer. Duties may include:

• Using Microsoft Excel and Minitab Statistical Software to analyze data.
• Using Microsoft Word to update work instructions and PowerPoint to build presentations.
• Entering machine results documentation into the SharePoint system.
• Working with operations and engineering on continuous improvement projects using 6-Sigma tools.
• Supporting operations and manufacturing engineering on new equipment implementation.
• Working with machine OEMs and the Pontiac Controls team to connect machine tools to databases.
• Applying data analytics skills to support engineering and operations.

What You Have

You will contribute your unique skills and experience. Some of the most critical skills include:

• Manufacturing Processes: basic understanding of existing product manufacturing methods, technologies, and processes.
• Experience with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

Internship Qualifications:

• Must be enrolled full-time at a 2-year or 4-year college or university.
• Must be able to commute daily to the Pontiac, IL facility.
• Expected graduation date of 2028 or later.

Top Candidates May Also Have

• Current or planned career interest in engineering, quality, or statistics.
• Leadership involvement in campus organizations, community service, or extracurricular activities.
• Business and/or technical internship, co-op, or research experience.
• Strong communication, analytical, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong commitment to safety, quality, and teamwork.
• Shop floor experience.
• Experience with AutoCAD and blueprint reading.
• Industrial controls processes: basic understanding of industrial process control, technologies, and data structures.
• Experience with PLCs (programmable logic controllers).
• Experience with SCADA systems.

Additional Information

• Start date will be late spring or early summer 2027.
• Attach your resume and an unofficial copy of your transcript to your application.
• This position is on-site at Caterpillar's Pontiac, IL facility, five days a week.
• Relocation and visa sponsorship are not available for this position.

What You Will Get

The intern hourly rate is based on the major or degree being pursued and the number of completed academic hours before the internship starts. The summary pay range is $25.00 to $43.00 per hour.

The total rewards package beyond base salary may include, if eligible:

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

Any offer of employment is conditioned upon successful completion of a drug screen. Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.