Drone and Product Support Specialist

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. The internship is a 40-hour-per-week assignment lasting 12 weeks.

Responsibilities

You’ll join a team with diverse project responsibilities and have valuable networking opportunities with all levels of Caterpillar employees. Focus areas include (but are not limited to):

• Product Design: Engineer components & systems for Caterpillar products to meet customer needs. Deliver solutions by leading collaboration with cross-functional teams throughout the value chain, from initial concept through production.
• Simulation/Performance Analysis: Engage with analysis methods such as CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics, ANSYS), FEA (Finite Element Analysis), 3D modeling, root cause investigation, system/subsystem/component design optimization, structural dynamics, and development/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 environment, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with others for optimal results.
• Controls Development: Develop/implement control system algorithms using MATLAB/Simulink for engine controllers, machine implement controllers, and powertrain controllers. Responsibilities include understanding feature requirements, implementation, and testing prior to production rollout.
• Electronic Components: Design and test electronic control modules and components. Work with internal clients to understand requirements, collaborate with suppliers on design/validation, and test components in various environments. Additional duties may include designing Printed Circuit Board schematics, performing digital/analog/power circuit analysis/testing, and ensuring FMEAs (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) are conducted and documented.
• Embedded Software Development: Develop embedded software in C, C#, and/or C++ for electronic control modules. Applications include Datalink communications, Inputs and Outputs (sensors and actuators), speed calculation, injection/spark timing, memory management, CPU optimization, and multi-core design. May also involve developing automation scripts in Python/Visual Basic.
• Software Validation/Verification for Electronic Systems: Verify functionality of features or control system algorithms on HIL (Hardware in the Loop) or SIL (Software in the Loop) systems. Understand requirements and schematics, verify functionality, debug/report anomalies, and validate fixes.
• Engineering Data Analytics: Leverage Python and knowledge of data analytics/data science, machine learning, and engineering/statistics fundamentals.
• Process Engineering: Apply mechanical, manufacturing, systems, and/or industrial engineering knowledge to analyze and optimize engineering processes. Leverage problem-solving and communication skills.

Requirements

• 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 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 may use high school, college/community college, or trade school transcripts to meet this requirement.)
• Must maintain a 3.0/4.0 cumulative grade point average (no rounding) prior to the start of the internship.
• Must be able to relocate to the Peoria, IL area or an indicated work location for the duration of the internship and complete daily work commute using reliable transportation.
• Must attach your resume and an unofficial copy of your transcript to your application.
• This position requires working onsite five days a week. Visa sponsorship is not available.

Skills

Below are some of the most critical skills for this role:

• Analytical skills, initiating ideas, troubleshooting, root cause analysis, problem-solving, and critical thinking capabilities.
• Knowledge of engineering principles, theory, and experience gained through projects, internships, and/or relevant work experience.
• Fundamental understanding of engineering for a manufacturing environment, including the ability to design and implement materials, structures, machines, devices, systems, and processes.
• Ability to organize and manage multiple projects simultaneously, quickly gain and apply new skills and knowledge.
• Success in collaborating with others of diverse cultures, interpersonal styles, and abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to participate in and build an inclusive, constructive, and productive work environment.
• Ensure all team members' contributions are recognized and valued.

Qualifications (Preferred)

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

Pay

Intern hourly rate ranges from $25.00 to $43.00. The rate is based on the major/degree being pursued and the number of completed academic hours achieved before the start of the internship.

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.

Schedule

• 40 hours per week.
• 12-week duration.
• Primary location: Peoria, Illinois area, with some positions available in other U.S. locations.

Posting Dates: July 1, 2026 - August 14, 2026. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.