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Engineer Development Program Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Senior Process Development Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$102.99K - $169.23K/yr

Provide technical leadership within process R&D programs and across cross-functional teams. Process ... Apply fundamental engineering principles and scale-up laws to guide process design and scale-up ...

Senior Process Development Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107.10K - $138.50K/yr

Provide technical leadership within process R&D programs and across cross-functional teams. Process ... Apply fundamental engineering principles and scale-up laws to guide process design and scale-up ...

Job Title RMEP-Dev Owner Summary The Reliability, Maintenance, and Engineering (RME) department is excited to announce an opening for a RMEP-Dev Program Owner! The RMEP-Dev Program Owner (RMEP-Dev PO ...

Program Planner

Park Ridge, IL · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

The Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) is seeking a highly organized and collaborative Professional Development Program Planner to manage all aspects of the programming for assigned MDRT global ...

Senior Development Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$104.40K - $143.40K/yr

Oversee and guide engineering efforts across multiple programs * Identify potential problems early ... Experienced in managing all technical aspects of device development programs * Experience ...

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Engineer Development Program information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an Engineer Development Program, and why are they important?

To thrive in an Engineer Development Program, you generally need a relevant engineering degree, strong analytical skills, and a solid grasp of engineering fundamentals. Familiarity with industry-specific software (such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks) and basic project management tools is often expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability are crucial soft skills that help participants collaborate and learn effectively. These skills and qualifications are important because they enable new engineers to quickly develop technical expertise, contribute to projects, and grow within a dynamic professional environment.

What types of projects and rotations can participants expect in an Engineer Development Program?

Participants in an Engineer Development Program typically rotate through several departments such as design, manufacturing, quality assurance, and project management. Each rotation offers hands-on experience with real engineering projects, giving you exposure to various technologies and workflows. This structure helps you develop technical skills, understand cross-functional collaboration, and discover your preferred engineering focus area. The program is designed to build a strong foundation for career advancement and prepare you for leadership roles within the organization.

What is an Engineer Development Program?

An Engineer Development Program (EDP) is a structured entry-level training initiative designed to help recent engineering graduates transition into professional roles. These programs typically rotate participants through different departments or projects, allowing them to gain broad experience, technical skills, and a deeper understanding of the company's operations. EDPs often include mentorship, formal training sessions, and opportunities to work on real-world engineering challenges. The goal is to prepare participants for long-term career growth within the organization.

What is the difference between Engineer Development Program vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEngineer Development ProgramMechanical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some programs may require internshipsBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentRotational assignments across departments, training sessions, mentorshipDesign, analysis, testing, and manufacturing in engineering teams
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in large corporations for early-career developmentWidely used across manufacturing, automotive, aerospace industries

The Engineer Development Program is a structured training initiative aimed at developing early-career engineers through rotations and mentorship, whereas a Mechanical Engineer typically focuses on specific engineering tasks within a department. The program offers broader exposure and training, while the Mechanical Engineer role involves specialized technical work.

What job categories do people searching Engineer Development Program jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Engineer Development Program jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Engineer Development Program jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Engineer Development Program job openings:
2026 Field Representative Development Program (FRDP)

2026 Field Representative Development Program (FRDP)

Caterpillar

Peoria, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Caterpillar Inc. rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 458 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

216th of 415 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Career Area:
Sales
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.
Launch your career where strategy, technology, and customer impact come together.
The Field Representative Development Program (FRDP) is a dynamic, rotational experience designed to build the business, technical, and relationship skills needed to partner with Caterpillar dealers and customers around the world. This program prepares you to become a trusted field leader-driving strategy alignment, customer loyalty, and sustainable growth.
Program Overview
  • 1-3 year structured development program
  • Customized development plan focused on Caterpillar products, businesses, and values
  • Designed for early-career professionals ready to grow into impactful field roles

Your Development Journey
Immersive Training (First 13 Weeks)
You'll begin your journey with a 13-week, in-person training program in Peoria, Illinois, where you'll:
  • Build foundational knowledge of Caterpillar products, services, and customers
  • Develop critical consultative, communication, and leadership skills
  • Learn how to partner effectively with dealers and customers to solve real-world challenges

Rotational Experiences
After training, you'll rotate through multiple assignments across Caterpillar, gaining hands-on experience in:
  • Strategy
  • Products and services
  • Dealer and customer support

Each rotation is designed to expand your perspective and prepare you for success in the field.
Field Placement & Role Progression
Upon completing your rotations, you'll move into a field-based role, fully equipped to:
  • Partner with Caterpillar dealers
  • Drive strategy alignment and customer loyalty
  • Manage relationships and assigned territory with confidence

What You Will Do
  • Build strong foundational knowledge of Caterpillar, its products, services, and customers
  • Grow professionally through hands-on technical training and soft-skill development
  • Collaborate with experts across product development, marketing, sales, and dealer management
  • Complete diverse rotational assignments to gain enterprise-wide exposure
  • Ultimately serve as the critical connection between Caterpillar and its dealer network

Representative Career Paths
  • Industry Technical Representative - Provide technical expertise and solve customer challenges

What You Bring
You're a motivated early-career professional with a passion for learning, collaboration, and customer success. You demonstrate:
  • Customer Focus - Understanding customer needs and delivering value-driven solutions
  • Effective Communication - Clear, professional verbal and written communication skills
  • Problem Solving - A disciplined, analytical approach to identifying and resolving challenges
  • Relationship Management - Ability to build trust and productive partnerships
  • Value Selling Mindset - Interest in delivering solutions that go beyond products

Program Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree completed by program start in Business, Marketing, Engineering, or similar (or equivalent experience)
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8/4.0 (if pursuing or holding a degree)
  • Willingness to travel extensively (50-75%)
  • Willingness to relocate domestically based on business needs

Additional Program Details
  • Start Date: September 2026
  • Rotation Locations Include: Peoria, IL;
  • Relocation Assistance: Available
  • Candidates must have authorization to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship is not available now or in the future for this role.
  • Entry-level program with progression to a field-based role supporting Caterpillar dealers and customers

What You'll Get
  • A dedicated coach to support your growth throughout the program
  • Personalized onboarding and development
  • Comprehensive sales, technical, and soft-skill training
  • Exposure to multiple areas of the business to support long-term career success

About Caterpillar
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. For nearly 100 years, we've helped customers build a better, more sustainable world-and we're committed to a reduced-carbon future. Our global dealer network and innovative solutions help customers succeed every day.
Summary Pay Range:
$81,370.00 - $169,060.00
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:
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
This position requires working onsite five days a week.
Relocation is available for this position.
Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Posting Dates:
May 13, 2026 - June 4, 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.

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