2027 Material & Process Engineering, Summer Intern

Location: San Diego, California

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.

The Materials & Process Engineering internship program within Gas Turbine Product Engineering is designed to provide students with challenging assignments within gas turbine product design and development activities. Our organization is built from diverse engineering functions including Mechanical Design, Materials and Process Engineering, Gear and Rotor Systems Engineering, Condition Based Engineering, Aftermarket Engineering, and Turbine Production Engineering. Under the guidance of a mentor, interns are given a meaningful work experience, a project assignment to complete, and the opportunity to apply classroom education to real industry situations.

Responsibilities include but not limited to

Conducting materials research and analysis to support the development of new gas turbine components.

Performing failure analysis to identify root causes and recommend corrective actions.

Supporting design changes for product improvements with a focus on materials and processes.

Assisting in engine assembly support, production test support, and manufacturing support.

Developing and utilizing design tools for materials engineering applications.

Engaging in analytical simulations (FEA) and development engine or component testing.

Minimum Qualifications

Currently in the process of obtaining a 4 year or advanced degree in Materials Engineering, Materials Science, Weld engineering, or Ceramic Engineering

Classified by your school as either a Sophomore, Junior, Senior planning to attend graduate school, or currently attending graduate school.

Overall cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

Preferred Qualifications

Previous co-op/internship experience.

Problem solving skills.

High energy level and sense of urgency.

Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Good business / technical judgment.

Ability to handle multiple priorities for a variety of tasks.

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.

Summary Pay Range

$26.00 - $43.00

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.

Relocation is available for this position.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates

October 12, 2026 - December 30, 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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