2026 Engineering Rotational Development Program Product Development Track ERDP

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.

Start Your Career with Purpose

Are you ready to apply your engineering education to real-world challenges? Caterpillar's Engineering Rotational Development Program (ERDP) is designed for entry-level professionals like you. Through rotational assignments, you'll continue developing your skills and knowledge-helping you achieve your career goals while contributing to Caterpillar's mission of delivering exceptional products, services, and technologies to our customers. Our Engineering Rotational Development Program is an entry-level program designed to build employees' skill sets within the discipline and continue growth, even after the successful completion of the program.

This 12 to 18-month program provides practical experience across multiple engineering teams and technologies. It's more than just a job, it's a launchpad for your future at one of the world's leading manufacturers of construction and mining equipment.

What the Program Offers

As part of the ERDP, you'll rotate through different teams and projects that match your skills, knowledge, and abilities. You'll work on meaningful projects, connect with mentors, and get exposure to various areas of the company. Here are just a few paths you might explore :

• Product Design : Design components and systems for Caterpillar products to meet customer needs. Collaborate with cross-functional teams throughout the value chain-from concept to production-to deliver effective solutions.
• Simulation / Performance Analysis : CFD [Computational Fluid Dynamics] (ANSYS), FEA [Finite Element Analysis], 3D modelling, autonomy sensor and photorealistic environment root cause investigation, system / subsystem / component design optimization, structural dynamics, development and optimization of engine, aftertreatment, battery, fuel cell, powertrain, machine system performance, and / or autonomy and multiple machine coordination.
• 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 rollout.
• Electronic Components : Will be responsible for designing and testing various electronic control modules, as well as various electronic components. Will work with various internal Caterpillar clients to understand controller / component requirements, help design PCB [Printed Circuit Board] layouts, as well as perform digital / analog / power circuit analysis and testing. Other duties may include working with suppliers, testing the controllers / components in various environments, 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, autonomy algorithms for perception, localization, planning, 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 the 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 : Ability to write and understand computer code, Python, analytics / data science experience, exposure to machine learning concepts / tools, 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 :

Program Qualifications

Top Candidates May Also Have

Involvement with a campus design / competition team or related experience

Project or team leadership experience

Previous technical internship / co-op or relevant experience

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Intellectual curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to learn by doing

Additional Information

February 2, 2026; June 1, 2026; July 13, 2026; and August 3, 2026 (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 :

$79,800.00 - $143,520.00

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. This employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as, H, L, TN, F, J, E, O. As a global company, Caterpillar offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S which can be found through our employment website at www.caterpillar.com / careers.

Posting Dates :

August 22, 2025 - December 30, 2025

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 .

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