Glassdoor users rated their interview experience at Caterpillar as 100% positive with a difficulty rating score of 3 out of 5 (where 5 is the highest level of difficulty). Candidates interviewing for Praktikant and Service Maintenance Engineer rated their interviews as the hardest, whereas interviews for Praktikant and Service Maintenance Engineer roles were rated as the easiest.
The hiring process at Caterpillar takes an average of 59 days when considering 2 user submitted interviews across all job titles. Candidates applying for Service Maintenance Engineer had the quickest hiring process (on average 59 days), whereas Service Maintenance Engineer roles had the slowest hiring process (on average 59 days).
I applied through a recruiter. The process took 1 day. I interviewed at Caterpillar in Sep 2011
Interview
Was one hour long, and consisted of two 1:1, 30 minute sessions. There were two interviewers ( one for each session). They asked your typical STAR questions. They were very professional, but you could tell they were on a tight time restraint to ask all of the questions. My advice would be to research common STAR questions and have responses ready to go.
Interview questions [2]
Question 1
When was a time you had difficulty working in a team and how did you overcome that difficulty?
The process took 1 day. I interviewed at Caterpillar in Oct 2010
Interview
I had 2 separate interviews. The first interview was with the hiring supervisor and the second interview as with the hiring manager. In both cases, I was asked why I was interested in the job, what experience I could bring and my strengths/weaknesses. The hiring supervisor also questioned me about my willingness to travel and whether I had travelled internationally in previous jobs. In addition to the above questions, the hiring manager explained the group's training strategy and how I would fit into that strategy if I was offered and accepted the position.
I was interviewing as an existing employee for a lateral move. For new hires, I would offer the following advice. If you are an entry level applicant, be prepared to give an impromptu presentation on your resume. The purpose is to evaluate your communication skills. You will be asked situational questions and must draw upon your acedemic experience to answer as best as you can. Also be prepared to explain how you would solve a particular issue related to your field. The company is testing your problem solving abilities. New hires are typically interviewed by at least 3 people who meet afterwards to discuss the interviews and decide if you should be hired. If you are a mid-level applicant, be prepared to also answer situational questions but draw upon your professional experience to answer the questions. Your resume should highlight your professional accomplishments and any continuing education.
Willingness to relocate is a definate PLUS with this company.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Describe the management style of the two previous interviewers and explain your answer.
I applied through a recruiter. The process took 1 day. I interviewed at Caterpillar (Lafayette, IN) in Aug 2011
Interview
On site interview with the engineering manager that lasted approximately 45 mins. The interview was very relaxed and consisted of typical workplace response type questions as well as in depth explanation of previous work experience and hands on engine experience.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Describe the most technically challenging problem that you have faced at work.