Internship – Power Generation Project Applications Engineer (PAE) Coordinator

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 Project Applications Engineer (PAE) Coordinator assists PAEs with Solar’s internal activities associated with supporting the sale of new turbomachinery packages for the Power Generation market. The position involves working with senior applications engineers, field sales and a wide cross section of other departments to help plan, develop, and execute technical and commercial solutions to successfully compete for new equipment business.

Job Responsibilities include

Developing a basic understanding of turbomachinery and Balance of Plant equipment selection criteria for typical Power Generation applications, including Datacenters, Utilities, and Combined Heat and Power.

Becoming well-versed in Solar product and service offerings.

Becoming knowledgeable about Solar manufacturing and test processes.

Assisting with reviewing, interpreting and commenting to customer bid specifications.

Preparing and submitting supplier quotation requests.

Supporting the selection, optimization, pricing of custom features, and proposal preparation for Solar’s turbomachinery and Balance of Plant equipment offerings.

Helping book and transition projects to Business Management with clear technical and commercial definition to support efficient execution, while also gaining exposure to departments that regularly interface with PAE.

Preparing and giving technical presentations.

Participating in customer technical clarification meetings.

Using AI tools to develop and implement process improvements.

Minimum Qualifications

Currently in the process of receiving or have already received a B.S. or higher in Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical Engineering, or related degree.

2.8 GPA or higher on a 4.0 scale.

0-3 years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Internship(s) in an engineering role.

Proficiency in Excel, macros programming languages and functions.

Proficiency in MS applications (Word, PowerPoint, CoPilot, etc.).

Demonstrated communication skills (verbal and written).

Sense of urgency and organizational skills to work with multiple projects and competing priorities.

Ability to effectively communicate with internal and external customers, suppliers with proficiency in communicating technical information.

Demonstrated ability to work independently and complete assigned tasks in a timely manner.

Collaborative mindset.

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

November 11, 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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