Career Pathways High School Program - Decatur - Manufacturing Engineering

Career Area:

Business Services

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.

The 12‑month Caterpillar Career Pathways Program provides high school seniors with an opportunity to build foundational skills in preparation for a long‑term career in Manufacturing Engineering with a focus on Machine Processing at Caterpillar.

Selected students participate in a structured, multi‑phase program designed to develop technical, analytical, and professional skills that support manufacturing engineering teams. Participants earn high school credit while gaining hands‑on experience and receiving a paid hourly wage from Caterpillar.

Phase I:
Summer Internship
Introduction to Caterpillar’s manufacturing environment, machine processing operations, and basic engineering support activities.

Phase II:
Fall Semester Co‑Op (For High School Credit)
On‑the‑job learning focused on manufacturing engineering fundamentals, data tracking, and process documentation using basic computer tools and Excel.

Phase III:
Spring Semester Co‑Op (For High School Credit)
Advanced exposure to machine processing support, increased responsibility, and preparation for full‑time manufacturing engineering or technical roles following graduation.

The Manufacturing Engineering – Machine Processing role supports Caterpillar’s production operations by assisting manufacturing engineers with process documentation, data analysis, and machine‑related support activities. Participants develop basic computer and Excel skills while learning how engineering decisions impact safety, quality, and production efficiency.

• Use basic computer applications to enter, organize, and maintain manufacturing and engineering data.
• Utilize Excel to track machine performance data, process metrics, cycle times, or improvement actions.
• Assist with creating and updating spreadsheets, simple reports, and charts.
• Ensure accuracy and completeness of engineering and production data.

• Learn basic machine processing concepts and how manufacturing processes are engineered and improved.
• Assist with documenting standard work, process flows, and machine setup information.
• Support manufacturing engineers by gathering data, observing processes, and recording findings.
• Help monitor key process indicators and report abnormalities or improvement opportunities.

• Communicate effectively with manufacturing engineers, operators, maintenance teams, and supervisors.
• Participate in daily meetings, safety discussions, and continuous improvement activities.
• Ask questions, seek feedback, and demonstrate a willingness to learn in a technical environment.

• Follow all safety policies and procedures, including proper use of PPE.
• Support Caterpillar’s quality standards by following processes and reporting concerns.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.

• Hands‑on exposure to Manufacturing Engineering and Machine Processing
• Development of basic computer and Excel skills
• Understanding of how engineering supports manufacturing efficiency and quality
• Experience working alongside engineers and production teams
• Paid work experience while earning high school credit
• Preparation for future careers in manufacturing engineering, process engineering, or technical operations at Caterpillar

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Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge,…