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2026 STEM Student Trainee
2026 STEM Student TraineeCaterpillar • Peoria, Illinois, USA
2026 STEM Student Trainee

2026 STEM Student Trainee

Caterpillar • Peoria, Illinois, USA
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  • [job_card.full_time]
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Career Area :

Students and Graduates

Job Description :

Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.

When you join Caterpillar yourejoining 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 dontjust 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 / 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 (but not limited to) :

  • 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 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 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 schools 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 students 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! Thats how well 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 . To connect with us on social media visit Pay Range :

    $15.00 - $43.00

    Intern Hour Rate :

    An interns h ourly 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 :

    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

    Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position. This employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer such as H L TN F J E O. As a global company Caterpillar offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S which can be found through our employment website at 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.

    Not ready to apply Join our Talent Community.

    Required Experience :

    Intern

    Key Skills

    Anti Money Laundering,Access Control System,Catering,Assessment,Communication

    Employment Type : Full-Time

    Experience : years

    Vacancy : 1

    Monthly Salary Salary : 15 - 17

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