Career Area:OperationsJob 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.Early Career Welder Trainee Location: South Milwaukee, WIPay and Shift DetailsSign-On & Retention Bonus: Up to $2,000Shifts Available during training: 1st Shift or 2nd ShiftShift Availability after training: 2nd ShiftPay ProgressionTrainee pay starting at $29.30/hourIncremental wage increases tied to completion of training checkpoints and certificationsUpon successful completion of the training program pay increases to $33.35/hourShift Premium (if applicable): +$1.00/hour for 2nd ShiftJob SummaryLooking to start or grow your welding career? Join the Caterpillar South Milwaukee Welder Training Program and build the skills needed to become a certified production welder while earning competitive pay from day one.Whether you've completed a welding course, gained hands-on experience in a school shop, worked in fabrication, or simply have a passion for welding, we'll help you develop your skills through structured training, mentorship, and real-world manufacturing experience. You'll learn from experienced welders while working on some of the largest and most impressive mining equipment in the world.This is an opportunity to build a long-term skilled trades career with a global manufacturing leader.About Caterpillar South MilwaukeeOur South Milwaukee facility manufactures Cat® Electric Rope Shovels, some of the largest and most powerful mining machines on Earth. These massive machines support mining operations around the world and represent the highest levels of welding, fabrication, and manufacturing excellence.As a Welder Trainee, you'll receive hands-on training while contributing to the production of world-class equipment. You'll be challenged to continuously improve your skills, grow your technical knowledge, and take pride in building products that have a global impact.If you're looking for a place to learn, grow, and build a rewarding welding career, Caterpillar South Milwaukee is the place to start.What You'll DoLearn and perform Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) in a manufacturing environmentComplete hands-on welding training through a structured development programWork alongside experienced welders and receive mentorship and coachingRead and follow work instructions, blueprints, and welding specificationsGrind, prepare, and finish weldments to quality standardsSupport production of large structural steel components used in mining equipmentMaintain a safe work environment while following all Caterpillar safety expectationsProgress through welding certifications and skill checkpoints to advance your career and earningsMinimum QualificationsOne of the following:At least 1 year of welding experience in a manufacturing or fabrication environmentA 2-year Associate Degree in Welding from an accredited programA 1-year Welding Technical Diploma or Certificate from an accredited programExperience That Will Help You SucceedExperience with Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)Experience performing multi-pass weldsFamiliarity with grinding, weld preparation, and metal fabricationExposure to blueprint reading, weld symbols, or fabrication drawingsExperience working with structural steel, heavy plate, or large weldmentsManufacturing, fabrication, construction, shipbuilding, railroad, military, or industrial experiencePersonality Traits That Will Help You SucceedStrong commitment to safetyPositive attitude and willingness to learnAbility to accept coaching and apply feedbackStrong attention to detail and craftsmanshipAbility to identify quality concerns and continuously improveDesire to develop technical skills and build a long-term careerReliability, teamwork, and strong work ethicsWhy Join Caterpillar?Earn while you learn through a structured welding development programCompetitive starting pay with progression milestones built into the programMentorship from experienced welders and manufacturing professionalsLong-term career growth opportunities within CaterpillarComprehensive benefits package401(k) with company matchPaid vacation and holidaysDay-one health, dental, and vision benefitsSee the Work in ActionCheck out welding at Caterpillar and see the type of equipment you'll help build:https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1EiikDZxJA/?mibextid=wwXIfrHow to ApplyReady to build something big? Apply today and become part of a team that powers progress around the world.Note: Please check your email (including spam/junk folders) regularly for updates throughout the hiring process. Summary Pay Range:$29.30 - $31.60Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar. Benefits:Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.Medical, dental, and vision benefits*Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*401(k) savings plans*Health Savings Account (HSA)*Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*Health Lifestyle Programs*Employee Assistance Program*Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*Career Development*Incentive bonus*Disability benefitsLife InsuranceParental leaveAdoption benefitsTuition Reimbursement * These benefits also apply to part-time employees Posting Dates:August 31, 2026 - October 4, 2026Any 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.