About the role#
Caterpillar's Procurement team manages the purchasing of materials for over 300 product lines, including construction and mining equipment, engines, and industrial turbines. We also source business-critical items like IT hardware, software, and office supplies. As an intern, you will contribute to global sourcing strategies and work with category teams to meet quality, cost, and delivery objectives.
What you'll do#
- Develop and implement global sourcing strategies.
- Gather and analyze data to support supplier negotiations.
- Manage procurement policies, agreements, and source catalogs.
- Interface with product supply and category teams to drive project goals.
- Participate in process improvement and project management tasks.
- Collaborate with internal customers to ensure supply chain excellence.
What you'll need#
- Current full-time enrollment at a 4-year university in Business Administration, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Supply Chain Management.
- Completion of at least 30 semester hours before the internship begins.
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8/4.0.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively with diverse teams.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
Location & details#
- Term: Summer 2027 (12 weeks, 40 hours per week).
- Modality: This is a full-time, on-site position.
- Locations: Peoria, IL; Mossville, IL; East Peoria, IL; Morton, IL; Irving, TX; or Victoria, TX.
- Note: Candidates must be able to relocate to the assigned work location and provide their own transportation. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
About Caterpillar Inc.
Caterpillar Inc. manufactures construction and mining equipment, industrial gas turbines, and diesel-electric locomotives. Founded in 1925, the company operates through segments focused on construction, resource industries, and energy and transportation. It maintains a global dealer network and provides financing services. The firm is based in Irving, Texas, and employs over 65,000 people.
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