2027 Internship - Supplier Technical Engineer

Career Area

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.

Principal Accountabilities

• Leadership in resolution of quality problems associated with the purchased materials and engineering issues.
• Responsible for concept drawing, communication of concept with supplier, design/drawing review and acceptance, Windchill activities (drawing finalized), perform functions in BAAN ERP, tooling management, Q Notes, etc.
• Acts as a technical liaison between external suppliers and internal customers through various methods, including supplier site visits.
• Participates in and may lead projects on cross-functional teams utilizing 6 Sigma tools.
• Reviews, analyzes, and reports supplier quality performance data and trends.
• Initiates root cause analysis and implements supplier corrective and preventative action plans.
• Participates in continuous process improvement and warranty cost recovery related to supplier quality, including recovery of line stop and rework charge analysis.
• Collaborate with sourcing specialist, buyer, supplier development engineer, and material scheduler to improve supplier cost, quality, and throughput.
• Develops supplier quality metrics and the monthly gathering and distribution of measurements.
• Provides input into the supplier selection process as a technical subject matter expert.
• Participates on survey teams; collaborates with sourcing specialists and buyers in supplier qualification, selection, and ongoing evaluation.
• Coordinates with engineering personnel on matters regarding Concurrent Product and Process Development (CPPD), New Product Introduction (NPI), Continuous Process Improvement (CPI) teams; prove design to production, configuration management, deviations, supplier designs, specification approvals and meeting cost reduction goals.
• Participate in design and process Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA).
• Leads the PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) and develops the FAPITP (First Article Production Inspection Test Plan) with initial input from Design Engineering.
• Identifies and provides input to the Buyer for the purchase of supplier tooling.

Minimum Qualifications

• Overall GPA of at least 2.8 on a 4.0 scale.
• This position requires an engineering or manufacturing background.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes used to produce components and assemblies and knowledge of shop operations and maintenance procedures is a plus.
• Candidate for this position would be pursuing an undergraduate degree from a college or university, preferably in engineering, or have recently graduated.
• Familiarity with engineering practices & process planning (interpretation of drawings, tooling concepts, Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), Functional Test, etc.) and technical product knowledge (including metallurgy).

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong analytical problem-solving skills, ability to use and communicate statistical and problem-solving tools.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills are required in dealing with sensitive issues, developing others, and reaching consensus on specific actions, inside and outside of Solar.
• Tools and Techniques of 6 Sigma methodology are requirements and will be attained through completion of 6 Sigma training following entry into this position.
• Familiarity with project management and Design of Experiment (DOE).
• Familiarity with quality management principles.
• Understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles.
• Maintain and promote the highest level of professionalism and business ethics.
• Some domestic and/or international travel may be required.

Summary Pay Range

$26.00 - $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

• Accrued Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Volunteer Day
• Housing Stipend
• Relocation Assistance
• Medical coverage
• Voluntary benefits

Location

• San Diego, CA
• Houston, TX
• DeSoto, TX

Posting Dates

July 16, 2026 - July 21, 2026