High School Student Trainee - Part-Time

Career Area:

Students and Graduates

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.

What You Will Do:

As a Part-Time Student Trainee at Caterpillar’s Pontiac facility, you will be working with a team of engineering, quality, maintenance, and production professionals supporting some of Caterpillar’s world class Fuel System and Aftertreatment components. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to a team making improvements in safety, quality, velocity and cost while you gain valuable experience and grow your skills and knowledge.

This position is located in Pontiac, IL with an anticipated start date of Fall 2026. Part-time hours (10 to 32 hours per week) will be expected.

Job duties/responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Utilize Microsoft Excel to analyze data.
• Utilize Microsoft Word to update work instructions.
• Utilize Microsoft Power Point to develop presentations.
• Populate machine result documentation into Sharepoint.
• Work with operations and engineering to implement continuous improvement projects using 6-Sigma tools.
• Work with operations and manufacturing engineering for new equipment implementation.
• Work with machine original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and Pontiac tool design on updating machine documentation.
• Assemble and relocate equipment according to instructions and safety guidelines provided.
• Complete basic administrative tasks, such as documenting machine locations.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in work areas, both indoors and outdoors.
• Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors.
• Follow safety procedures and wear required personal protective equipment at all times.

Student Trainee Qualifications:

• Must be an incoming high school junior or senior for the 2026-2027 school year.
• Must be within commutable distance to the Pontiac, IL facility with reliable transportation.
• Experience with Microsoft Office.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks.

Physical Requirements (with or without reasonable accommodation):

• Ability to sit or stand for prolonged periods.
• Ability to perform repetitive operations.
• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs.

Top Candidates May Also Have:

• Ability to follow documented procedures for standard work, to perform work safely and free of defects.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot issues and implement effective solutions.
• Aptitude for assembly and mechanical work.
• Interest in a potential career in manufacturing.

Additional Information:

• These are part-time, temporary positions.
• Positions are located on-site at Caterpillar’s Pontiac, IL facility.
• Relocation assistance is not available for this position.
• Sponsorship is not available for this position.

What You Will Get:

Student Trainee Hourly Rate: Hourly rate is based on your grade level for the 2026-2027 school year. Juniors receive $15.00/hr; Seniors receive $16.00/hr.

Student Trainee Benefits: The total rewards package, beyond hourly pay, includes:

• Accrued Paid Time Off (PTO).
• Optional medical coverage.
• Optional voluntary benefits.

Summary Pay Range:

$15.00 - $17.50

Intern Hourly Rate:

An intern's hourly rate is based on the major/degree being pursued and the number of completed academic hours achieved before the start of the internship.

 

Intern 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

This position requires working onsite five days a week.

  

 

 

 

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates:

August 11, 2026 - August 25, 2026

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.

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