Logo
Caterpillar

2026 Leadership & Technical Development Program - Automation and Robotics

Caterpillar, Mossville, Illinois, us, 61552

Save Job

Overview Career Area:

Manufacturing

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.

Your Impact 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.

About the Role Caterpillar's Leadership and Technical Development Program (LTDP) for Automation and Robotics is a roughly three-year rotational program designed to accelerate the development of entry-level talent and provide a foundation for challenges within operations and manufacturing. It offers broad exposure to Caterpillar, diverse project responsibilities, cross-functional experiences, and networking opportunities with Caterpillar leadership. The program helps build foundational technical and leadership skills for future success within the organization.

Caterpillar's Automation and Robotics track focuses on building manufacturing automation competency in process design and analysis, research and development, technology introduction, and automation integration to develop future experts and leaders.

What You Will Do Participants will complete three rotations of 12–18 months each, defined by business needs. You must be willing to travel and relocate to any participating facility in North America during hire and throughout each rotation. You will join a team with diverse project responsibilities and gain experience in areas including (but not limited to):

Foundational Automation role

Manufacturing Engineering

Product Development

Supplier Engagement role

What You Have – Skills and Experiences In this role, you will contribute your skills and experiences. Below are some of the most critical skills.

Analytical skills, troubleshooting, root cause analysis, problem-solving, and critical thinking

Knowledge of engineering principles and experience gained through projects, internships, or relevant work

Fundamental understanding of engineering for a manufacturing environment; ability to design and implement automation technology, solutions, systems, and processes that safely achieve objectives

Ability to organize and manage multiple projects, quickly gain and apply new skills

Ability to collaborate with people from diverse cultures and interpersonal styles

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Commitment to an inclusive, constructive, and productive work environment

Recognition and valuing of each team member's contributions

Program Qualifications

Completed degree from a university/college by the start of the program in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, Robotics, or other relevant Engineering/Technology fields

Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8/4.0 (no rounding)

Willingness to relocate domestically for each rotation and post-program assignment

Program Start Dates: January & June 2026

Top Candidates May Also Have

0–2 years of relevant manufacturing or robotics experience (including internships or academic projects)

Project or team leadership experience

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Foundational skills in manufacturing and automation; early-career candidates encouraged

Additional Information

Please attach your resume and an unofficial copy of your transcript to your application.

Applicants may be considered for positions throughout the United States; rotation locations include the Midwest, Southeast, Texas, and Southern California.

Relocation is available.

Sponsorship is not available for this position.

This position requires working onsite five days a week.

Final Details Please frequently check the email associated with your application. Use the candidate login on our career website to view status updates. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply. Recent graduates 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 - $119,760.00

Compensation and benefits offered may vary based on factors such as job level, location, knowledge, skills, and experience. Salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision benefits (eligible)

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

Tution Reimbursement

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees

Posting Dates: December 2, 2025 - March 30, 2026

Equal Opportunity Employer statement: 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.

#J-18808-Ljbffr