2026 Engineering Rotational Development Program - Product Development Track (ERDP) at Caterpillar Inc.

Mossville, Illinois, United States

Caterpillar Inc. Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
Entry Level & New GradExperience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Construction, Mining, ManufacturingIndustries

Requirements

  • Entry-level engineering education (e.g., bachelor's degree in engineering or related field)
  • Skills, knowledge, and abilities matching rotational assignments in product development
  • Strong mechanical engineering understanding (for test/validation roles)
  • Proficiency in tools such as ANSYS (CFD), FEA, 3D modeling, Matlab/Simulink, C, C#, C++ (depending on rotation)
  • Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, mentors, and internal clients

Responsibilities

  • Rotate through 12-18 month assignments across engineering teams in product design, simulation/performance analysis, test/validation, controls development, electronic components, and embedded software development
  • Design components and systems for Caterpillar products to meet customer needs, collaborating from concept to production
  • Perform simulation/performance analysis including CFD, FEA, 3D modeling, root cause investigations, design optimization, structural dynamics, and performance development for engines, powertrains, autonomy, etc
  • Conduct hands-on test/validation, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating for optimal results
  • Develop and implement control system algorithms using Matlab/Simulink for engine, machine, and powertrain controllers, including requirements understanding, implementation, and testing
  • Design and test electronic control modules and components, including PCB layouts, circuit analysis, supplier coordination, environmental testing, and FMEA documentation
  • Develop embedded software in C, C#, C++ for electronic control modules, covering datalink communications, sensors/actuators, speed calculation, injection/spark timing, memory management, CPU optimization, multi-core design, and autonomy applications
  • Work on meaningful projects, connect with mentors, and gain exposure to various company areas to build skills and support Caterpillar's product, service, and technology delivery

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Product DesignComponent DesignSystems DesignCADCross-Functional CollaborationValue Chain ManagementEngineering DesignPrototypingManufacturing Processes

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What is the duration of the Engineering Rotational Development Program?

The program lasts 12 to 18 months and provides practical experience across multiple engineering teams and technologies.

Is this a remote position or does it require on-site work?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What skills or experiences are needed for this program?

The program is designed for entry-level professionals with engineering education, suitable for skills in product design, simulation like CFD and FEA, test/validation, and controls development using Matlab/Simulink.

What is the company culture like at Caterpillar?

Caterpillar fosters a global team environment that cares about each other, emphasizes progress, innovation, and building stronger, more sustainable communities with customers.

What makes a strong candidate for the ERDP Product Development Track?

Entry-level professionals with engineering education ready to apply skills to real-world challenges, matching abilities in areas like product design, simulation, testing, or controls development will be strong fits.

Caterpillar Inc.

Manufactures heavy machinery for various industries

About Caterpillar Inc.

Caterpillar Inc. designs and manufactures heavy machinery and equipment for industries such as construction, mining, energy, and rail. Their products include a wide range of machinery and engines that help clients complete large-scale projects. Caterpillar's equipment works by providing powerful tools that can perform tasks like digging, lifting, and transporting materials. What sets Caterpillar apart from its competitors is its strong aftermarket support, which includes maintenance and repair services, ensuring that their machinery remains efficient and reliable over time. The company's goal is to deliver high-quality products while also focusing on sustainability and community development through initiatives that improve education and reduce poverty.

Irving, TexasHeadquarters
1925Year Founded
$143.5KTotal Funding
IPOCompany Stage
Industrial & Manufacturing, Social Impact, AI & Machine LearningIndustries
10,001+Employees

Benefits

Annual incentive bonus plan
Medical, dental, and vision coverage
Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holiday, Volunteer, Etc.)
401k savings plan
Health savings account (HSA)
Flexible spending accounts (FSAs)
Disability benefits
Life Insurance
Parental leave
Healthy Lifestyle Programs
Employee Assistance Programs
Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts
Tuition Reimbursement
Career Development

Risks

Closure of Aurora office may impact regional economy and Caterpillar's reputation.
Partnership with Anti Social Social Club could dilute Caterpillar's industrial brand focus.
Advanced technology in Cat D8 dozer may face resistance from traditional customers.

Differentiation

Caterpillar's century-long history underscores its reliability and industry leadership.
The company integrates AI and IoT to enhance machinery performance and customer satisfaction.
Caterpillar's strong aftermarket services ensure product longevity and operational efficiency.

Upsides

Growing demand for autonomous equipment boosts Caterpillar's innovation in heavy machinery.
Expansion of 5G networks enhances Caterpillar's remote operation capabilities, improving safety.
Caterpillar's commitment to sustainability aligns with the global shift towards eco-friendly practices.

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