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2027 Internship -Supplier Technical Engineer This position has technical accountability for the assigned purchase parts from new product introduction, initial concept through the product life cycle, including all aspects of quality management. The supplier technical engineer intern acts as a liaison between internal customers at all levels (operations leadership, engineering, and new product introduction teams as well as all areas in aftermarket), and external supplier contacts at all levels as required. This position reports to the supply chain manager and/ or the site sourcing manager. The supplier technical engineer is a technical resource for the supply chain and, at the higher levels, acts as a mentor and technical lead.
Locations (this position is hiring for multiple locations)
Principal Accountabilities:
- Leadership in resolution of quality problems associated with the purchased materials and engineering issues.
- Responsible for concept drawing, communication of concept with supplier, design/drawing review and acceptance, Windchill activities (drawing finalized), perform functions in BAAN ERP, tooling management, Q Notes, etc.
- Acts as a technical liaison between external suppliers and internal customers through various methods, including supplier site visits.
- The supplier technical engineer intern will participate in and may lead projects on cross-functional teams utilizing 6 Sigma tools. At the senior level, projects will increase in complexity and value to Solar's strategic objectives.
- Participates in the development of supplier quality metrics and the monthly gathering and distribution of measurements. Reviews, analyzes, and reports supplier quality performance data and trends.
- Is the focal point for SARN (Supplier Advanced Reject Notices) and RN (Reject Notices) resolution. Initiates root cause analysis and implements supplier corrective and preventative action plans.
- Participates in continuous process improvement and warranty cost recovery related to supplier quality, including recovery of line stop and rework charge analysis.
- Collaborate with sourcing specialist, buyer, supplier development engineer, and material scheduler to improve supplier cost, quality, and throughput.
- Develop and maintain thorough knowledge of technological developments and trends for guidance of commodity teams in advancement of design, quality, and manufacturing.
- Provides input into the supplier selection process as a technical subject matter expert. Participates on survey teams; collaborates with sourcing specialists and buyers in supplier qualification, selection, and ongoing evaluation.
- Coordinates with engineering personnel on matters regarding Concurrent Product and Process Development (CPPD), New Product Introduction (NPI), Continuous Process Improvement (CPI) teams; prove design to production, configuration management, deviations, supplier designs, specification approvals and meeting cost reduction goals.
- Participate in design and process Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA).
- Leads the PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) and develops the FAPITP (First Article Production Inspection Test Plan) with initial input from Design Engineering. Identifies and provides input to the Buyer for the purchase of supplier tooling.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Overall GPA of at least 2.8 on a 4.0 scale.
- This position requires an engineering or manufacturing background. Familiarity with manufacturing processes used to produce components and assemblies and knowledge of shop operations and maintenance procedures is a plus.
- Candidate for this position would be pursuing an undergraduate degree from a college or university, preferably in engineering, or have entry level.
- Familiarity with engineering practices & process planning (interpretation of drawings, tooling concepts, Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), Functional Test, etc.) and technical product knowledge (including metallurgy).
Preferred Qualifications:
- Strong analytical problem-solving skills, ability to use and communicate statistical and problem-solving tools. Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Well-developed interpersonal skills are required in dealing with sensitive issues, developing others, and reaching consensus on specific actions, inside and outside of Solar.
- Tools and Techniques of 6 Sigma methodology are requirements and will be attained through completion of 6 Sigma training following entry into this position. Familiarity with project management and Design of Experiment (DOE). Familiarity with quality management principles.
- Understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles.
- Maintain and promote the highest level of professionalism and business ethics. Some domestic and/or international travel may be required.
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:July 16, 2026 - July 21, 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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