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2027 Summer Corporate Intern - Communications

Caterpillar · Peoria, IL · $21.00–$37.50 an hour · Full time

Posted Sep 1, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about a piece of writing you are proud of. Who was it for, and what did you want them to do?

What they are checking: Whether they write with an audience and purpose in mind, which this role leans on heavily.

Tell me about a time you got heavy feedback on your writing. How did you respond?

What they are checking: Whether they can take edits without getting defensive, which is daily life in communications.

Tell me about a project you coordinated with several people. How did you keep it on track?

What they are checking: Whether they have the organizing skills that project coordination in communications requires.

Why communications at a large manufacturer instead of an agency?

What they are checking: Whether they understand in-house communications and have a real reason for wanting it.

What would you do

A leader asks you to write a message, but you think the approach will not land with employees. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they can advise stakeholders respectfully on what will work, as the posting describes.

You are juggling three content requests due the same day. How do you decide what comes first?

What they are checking: Whether they can prioritize and communicate about deadlines instead of quietly missing one.

About the work

How would you write the same news differently for employees on a factory floor and for outside media?

What they are checking: Whether they can adjust tone, format and channel for very different audiences.

What metrics would you track to know if an internal communications campaign worked?

What they are checking: Whether they measure real engagement and behavior, not just how many people opened a message.

How do you check your work for errors before something goes out to thousands of people?

What they are checking: Whether they have a real proofreading process, since the posting asks for strong attention to detail.

What social media content do you think works for an industrial company like Caterpillar?

What they are checking: Whether they understand how to make heavy equipment and manufacturing interesting without hype.

Practice this interview out loud.

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The full job description

As published by Caterpillar.

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. Job Summary We are seeking motivated and creative communications interns to join our team. This internship offers hands-on experience in internal and external communications, content creation, social media and project coordination. The ideal candidate is a strong writer, detail-oriented and eager to learn about communication strategies that support business goals. The role will work closely with our communications team to craft compelling messages, support campaigns, and enhance employee and stakeholder engagement. Session Dates: May 17, 2027 – August 6, 2027 What You Will Do • • Collaborate with stakeholders and advise on the suitability of communication approaches. • Track and analyze metrics to measure the effectiveness of communications campaigns and tactics. • Assist in the planning and creation of content for internal and external communication channels, ensuring that messaging and branding are consistent across all channels. • Develop and distribute communications materials, such as written communications, presentation materials and websites, to deliver key messages. What You Have- Skills and Experiences • • Effectiveness Measurement: Knowledge of effective measurement techniques and ability to measure the quality and quantity of work effort for the purpose of improvement. • Decision Making and Critical Thinking: Knowledge of the decision-making process and associated tools and techniques; ability to accurately analyze situations and reach productive decisions based on informed judgment. • Interpersonal Relationships : Knowledge of the techniques and the ability to work with a variety of individuals and groups in a constructive and collaborative manner. • Communicating for Impact: Knowledge of the concepts, tools and techniques for effective listening and communicating; ability to apply these theories to receive, transmit and accurately interpret information and ideas to influence others in various situations. • Multimedia Technologies: Knowledge of multimedia publishing technologies and procedures; ability to use installed audio, visual and animation software tools to produce multimedia publications. Internship Program Qualifications • • Currently enrolled in a full-time, four-year accredited college or university or graduate school in one of the following degree programs: Communications, Public Relations, English, Journalism or Marketing at the time of application and throughout the program. • Minimum 3.0/4.0 Cumulative GPA (no rounding). • Proficiency in Microsoft 365 tools: Outlook, PowerPoint, Word, Excel, SharePoint, Teams, etc. Top candidates will also have: • • Ability to write and edit content for various channels (emails, newsletters, websites, etc.) following AP style. • Natural collaborator with outstanding interpersonal and verbal communication skills. • Strong initiative, communication, leadership and interpersonal skills. • Demonstrated proficiency in delivering compelling presentations. • Exceptionally organized with keen attention to detail. Additional Information: • • Please attach your resume and an unofficial copy of your transcript to your application. • Applicants will be considered for positions throughout the United States. • Sponsorship is NOT available for this position. • Locations: Peoria, IL and Irving, TX. • The position requires working onsite five days a week. Besides exciting work, Corporate Interns will experience: • • Comprehensive internship orientation • Tours of state-of-the-art manufacturing and research facilities • Product Demonstration • Mentorship Programs • Various social events • Networking with leadership • Business skill building • Career discussion with leaders and experts Summary Pay Range: $21.00 - $37.50 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. Relocation is available for this position. Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position. Posting Dates: September 1, 2026 - October 29, 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 .

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