High School Student Trainee

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.

Spend Your School Year Around Some of the Biggest Machines in the World

Your Work Shapes the World

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to get up close to the massive mining trucks, bulldozers, and equipment that help build the world around us?

At Caterpillar, you'll have the opportunity to do just that.

For more than 100 years, Caterpillar has been creating the machines, technology, and innovations that help customers build roads, schools, hospitals, and communities across the globe. Now we're inviting a select group of local students to explore those careers firsthand at our world-renowned Tinaja Hills Demonstration Center .

This isn't your typical after-school job. It's a chance to learn from experts, build real-world skills, and experience what it's like to be part of a global company that powers progress around the world.

Why You'll Love This Internship

As a Tinaja Hills Intern, you'll work alongside experienced Caterpillar professionals while exploring careers in:

• Heavy equipment and diesel technology
• Welding and fabrication
• Engineering and machine testing
• Technical operations and maintenance
• Customer demonstrations and support

You'll gain hands-on experience, develop professional skills, and build a network that can help shape your future career path.

Plus, you'll get exclusive access to one of Caterpillar's most unique facilities, where some of the world's largest and most advanced machines are tested and demonstrated.

What You Might Do

Every day is different, but your experience may include:

• Assisting with equipment preparation and wash rack operations
• Working alongside technicians to inspect, maintain, and repair equipment
• Helping prepare machines for performance testing
• Installing specialized sensors and instruments used to evaluate machine performance
• Supporting fabrication and welding projects
• Learning Caterpillar's world-class safety practices
• Collaborating with technicians, mechanics, and engineers on real projects

No prior experience is required. We'll provide the mentorship and support to help you learn.

What We're Looking For

We're searching for students who are:

• Curious and eager to learn
• Excited by hands-on work and technology
• Team players who enjoy collaborating with others
• Dependable, professional, and safety-minded
• Interested in exploring careers in skilled trades, engineering, manufacturing, or heavy equipment

Eligibility

To be considered, students must:

• Be a current Junior (Class of 2028) or Senior (Class of 2027)
• Be enrolled and in good academic standing within the Vail School District
• Be participating in the Vail Internship Program

Basic Qualifications

• Safety-first mindset
• Minimum age of 16 by the start of the internship
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
• Full-time high school student enrolled in the Vail Internship Program
• Reliable transportation
• Availability to work 2-5 hours per week during the school year
• Strong communication skills and willingness to learn

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated leadership through school activities, athletics, clubs, work, or community involvement
• Interest in mechanics, engineering, equipment, welding, manufacturing, or technology
• Positive attitude and strong work ethic

Ready to See What a Future at Caterpillar Could Look Like?

Join us at the Tinaja Hills Demonstration Center and discover how your talents can help build a better, more sustainable world. Your future starts here.

Your Work Shapes the World. Come See It in Action.

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 6, 2026 - August 13, 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.

Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community .