Trainee Automation Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Career Area:

Engineering

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.

The Engineering Rotational Development Program (ERDP) - Welding Track is all about developing the next generation of Welding Engineering leaders and technical experts. The purpose of the program is to build off your education, skills and experience to develop welding engineering talent through rotational assignments and learning opportunities so that you may not only fulfill your career goals but provide excellent service to Caterpillar and its customers.

What You Will Do

You will join the Modern Manufacturing Transformation team for three, 12-month rotations in various Caterpillar facilities in the United States. This is an entry-level engineering position which supports building welding and materials joining technical abilities in roles including (but not limited to):

• Research and Development
• Facility Welding Engineering Support
• Product Development
• Automation
• Supplier Quality Support

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 and the ability to design and implement welding and fabrication processes that safely realize a desired objective or invention
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and quickly acquire and apply new skills and knowledge
• Collaborate 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

Program Qualifications

• Must have an ABET-accredited Bachelors or higher in Welding Engineering, Mechanical Engineering with a welding emphasis, Metallurgical and/or Materials Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering with a welding emphasis, Welding and Fabrication Technology or Weld Fabrication Technology Management (selected candidates must obtain their degree before they start)
• Must have a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0/4.0 or higher (no rounding)
• Candidates with prior professional work experience must have 12 months or less of such experience, excluding internships
• Willing to travel and relocate domestically

Top Candidates May Also Have

• Involvement with campus design/competition teams or related experience
• Project or team leadership experience
• Previous technical internship/co-op or relevant experience
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Hands-on experience or knowledge of welding processes

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/official copy of your transcript to your application
• Applicants will be considered for positions throughout the United States
• Most positions are based in Peoria, Illinois, with limited availability in other United States' locations
• Relocation is available to those who qualify
• Sponsorship is NOT available for this position
• This is a Monday through Friday, in-person opportunity - perfect for building relationships, learning fast, and diving deep into your rotations
• 2027 available start dates - February 1, 2027; June 7, 2027; July 12, 2027; or August 2, 2027 (seats are limited for each start date)

Why Choose Caterpillar?

We're a values-driven company where you'll feel your work matters-whether you're optimizing machine performance, writing embedded code, or designing the next innovation in clean energy. You'll gain access to top-tier mentorship, technical resources, and real ownership of your work from day one.

Final details

Please regularly check the email associated with your application-including your junk/spam folder-as this will be our primary method of communication. To check the status of your application, please visit our career website using the candidate login, as it will reflect any updates to your status.

Interested applicants should explore our direct hire positions at www.caterpillar.com/careers . For more information, visit caterpillar.com. To connect with us on social media, visit caterpillar.com/social media.

Summary Pay Range:

$89,210.00 - $133,810.00

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:

July 1, 2026 - August 20, 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 .