Career Area:
Business Services

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.

Caterpillar Career Pathways Program - Manufacturing Engineering (Machine Processing)

Program Overview

The 12-month Caterpillar Career Pathways Program provides high school seniors with an opportunity to build foundational skills in preparation for a long-term career in Manufacturing Engineering with a focus on Machine Processing at Caterpillar.

Selected students participate in a structured, multi-phase program designed to develop technical, analytical, and professional skills that support manufacturing engineering teams. Participants earn high school credit while gaining hands-on experience and receiving a paid hourly wage from Caterpillar.

Program Structure

The Career Pathways Program consists of three phases:

Phase I: Summer Internship
Introduction to Caterpillar's manufacturing environment, machine processing operations, and basic engineering support activities.

Phase II: Fall Semester Co-Op (For High School Credit)
On-the-job learning focused on manufacturing engineering fundamentals, data tracking, and process documentation using basic computer tools and Excel.

Phase III: Spring Semester Co-Op (For High School Credit)
Advanced exposure to machine processing support, increased responsibility, and preparation for full-time manufacturing engineering or technical roles following graduation.

Position Summary: Manufacturing Engineering - Machine Processing

The Manufacturing Engineering - Machine Processing role supports Caterpillar's production operations by assisting manufacturing engineers with process documentation, data analysis, and machine-related support activities. Participants develop basic computer and Excel skills while learning how engineering decisions impact safety, quality, and production efficiency.

Primary Responsibilities

Computer & Data Skills

• Use basic computer applications to enter, organize, and maintain manufacturing and engineering data.
• Utilize Excel to track machine performance data, process metrics, cycle times, or improvement actions.
• Assist with creating and updating spreadsheets, simple reports, and charts.
• Ensure accuracy and completeness of engineering and production data.

Manufacturing Engineering Support

• Learn basic machine processing concepts and how manufacturing processes are engineered and improved.
• Assist with documenting standard work, process flows, and machine setup information.
• Support manufacturing engineers by gathering data, observing processes, and recording findings.
• Help monitor key process indicators and report abnormalities or improvement opportunities.

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

• Communicate effectively with manufacturing engineers, operators, maintenance teams, and supervisors.
• Participate in daily meetings, safety discussions, and continuous improvement activities.
• Ask questions, seek feedback, and demonstrate a willingness to learn in a technical environment.

Safety & Quality

• Follow all safety policies and procedures , including proper use of PPE.
• Support Caterpillar's quality standards by following processes and reporting concerns.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.

What Participants Gain

• Hands-on exposure to Manufacturing Engineering and Machine Processing
• Development of basic computer and Excel skills
• Understanding of how engineering supports manufacturing efficiency and quality
• Experience working alongside engineers and production teams
• Paid work experience while earning high school credit
• Preparation for future careers in manufacturing engineering, process engineering, or technical operations at Caterpillar

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:

Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of 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:
March 6, 2026 - March 30, 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.

For 100 years, we’ve been helping customers build a better, more sustainable world. Our innovative products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value that helps customers succeed.

With 2024 sales and revenues of $64.8 billion, Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives.

Caterpillar does business on every continent, principally operating through three primary segments – Construction Industries, Resource Industries and Energy & Transportation – and provides financing and related services through our Financial Products segment