If you’re a recent graduate eager to gain hands-on experience at a global industry leader, the Caterpillar Kickstart Graduate Programme 2025/2026 might be your perfect next step. This one-year opportunity is designed to fast-track your professional growth while working on high-impact projects in a real-world business environment.
Application Closing Date: 21 August 2025
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Contract Duration: October 2025 – September 2026
Work Format: Full-time (40 hours per week, onsite)
Launch Your Career with Caterpillar
Caterpillar, a globally respected name in engineering, manufacturing, and innovation, is offering ambitious graduates the chance to dive deep into the inner workings of its business. The Kickstart Graduate Programme gives you exposure to dynamic teams across multiple business functions—building your skills, confidence, and future career path.
What You’ll Be Doing
This isn’t just job shadowing—this is a hands-on, fully immersive learning experience. As part of the programme, you’ll:
- Learn how Caterpillar operates, from products to customers to strategy
- Tackle real-world challenges and contribute to key business projects
- Collaborate across departments like product support, marketing, sales, digital, and strategy
- Work on strategic assessments that influence innovation and drive company growth
- Build your communication, analytical, and business skills alongside global experts
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the programme, you must meet the following:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Engineering, or a related field
- A valid passport (valid through September 2026)
- Fluent English communication skills
- Willingness to travel, both regionally and internationally
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office/O365 tools
- At least one completed internship, or 1–2 years of relevant experience
What Caterpillar Looks For
You don’t need to know everything—you just need the drive to learn. Ideal candidates are:
- Strong communicators who show initiative
- Curious learners with a drive to make an impact
- Team players who thrive in collaborative environments
- Analytical thinkers with solid problem-solving skills
- Passionate about customers and delivering real results
- Commercially aware and eager to grow in a corporate setting
Why Join Caterpillar?
When you join Caterpillar, you’re not just starting a job—you’re stepping into a global community of professionals committed to building a better world. The Kickstart Graduate Programme is your launchpad into a company that values development, leadership, and forward-thinking talent.
You’ll walk away with more than experience. You’ll gain:
- Exposure to global operations
- Mentorship from experienced professionals
- A strong foundation for future leadership roles
- The credibility, clarity, and confidence to thrive in your career
How to Apply
Apply Online for the Caterpillar: Kickstart Graduate Programme 2025 / 2026
Closing Date: 21 August 2025
If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and help shape the future of innovation at Caterpillar, don’t miss your chance. Apply today and kickstart your career in a company that moves the world forward.