Software Development Trainee Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Career Area:

Students and Graduates

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.

About the Role

This pipeline posting is currently limited to candidates who have completed a Caterpillar Students & Graduates assignment (e.g., internship, co-op, student trainee) within the previous 24 months.

Caterpillar's Corporate Engineering Intern program seeks students currently enrolled in a four-year university to work alongside engineering professionals to learn and apply themselves to project work within their teams.

Interns will have assignments that provide them with experience and significant learning opportunities. In addition to this work, Interns can network with management throughout the company to learn about Caterpillar areas outside their assigned team. Students can deepen their business skills in their assignments through team and business partner interactions, develop their skills, conduct presentations, and measure their success through the performance and evaluation process.

What You Will Do

You'll join a team with diverse project responsibilities and have valuable networking opportunities with all levels of Caterpillar employees. The internship is a 40-hour-per-week assignment lasting 12 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 the initial concept through production.
• Simulation/Performance Analysis: Engage with analysis methods such as 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: Design and test various electronic control modules as well as various electronic components. Work with various internal Caterpillar clients to understand controller/component requirements, work with suppliers on design and validation of the components, as well as testing the components in various environments. Other duties may include design of Printed Circuit Board schematics as well as perform digital/analog/power circuit analysis & testing and 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 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 or processes. Will have the opportunity to leverage problem-solving and communication skills.

What You Have - Skills and Experiences

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, internships, and/or relevant work experience
• Fundamental understanding of engineering for a manufacturing environment, 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
• Ensure all team members' contributions are recognized and valued

Internship Program Qualifications

• Must be enrolled full-time in a 4-year university/college pursuing an ABET accredited degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Agricultural or Aerospace Engineering; Engineering Technology; or similar technical based programs at the time of application and throughout the program
• Must have completed at least 24 semester hours from current institution before the start of the internship. If a transfer student, must have 12 semester hours completed at a 4-year university
• Must have a minimum 3.0/4.0 cumulative grade point average (no rounding) at time of application from current institution ( *Current 1st year/1st semester students at current institution may utilize high school, college/community college, or trade school transcripts to meet a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average at time of graduation. )
• Must maintain 3.0/4.0 cumulative grade point average (no rounding) prior to start of internship
• Must be able to relocate to Peoria, IL area or an indicated work location for the duration of the internship and complete daily work commute using reliable transportation

Top Candidates May Also Have

• Project or team leadership experience
• Previous technical internship, co-op, or research/relevant experience
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Additional Information

• This pipeline posting is currently limited to candidates who have completed a Caterpillar Students & Graduates assignment (e.g., internship, co-op, student trainee) within the previous 24 months
• Must attach your resume and an unofficial copy of your transcript to your application
• Applicants will be considered for positions throughout the United States
• Primary location for these positions is in the Peoria, Illinois area, with a number of positions in other locations
• Sponsorship is NOT available for this position
• This position requires working onsite five days a week

Final Details

Please frequently check the email associated with your application, including the junk/spam folder, as this is the primary correspondence method. If you wish to know the status of your application - please use the candidate log-in on our career website as it will reflect any updates to your status.

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

Summary Pay Range:

$25.00 - $43.00

Intern Hourly 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:

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

This position requires working onsite five days a week.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates:

July 1, 2026 - August 14, 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 .