Instrumentation Apprentice
About The Position
The Instrumentation Lab Apprentice Program at the Tucson Proving Ground (TPG) is a two‑year, paid apprenticeship developed in partnership with Pima Community College. This program provides hands‑on, structured training for students interested in instrumentation, sensors, electronics, data acquisition systems, signal measurement, and electrical troubleshooting supporting Caterpillar's product testing and validation activities. This is a learning‑focused, developmental role designed for individuals with strong attention to detail, mechanical and electrical aptitude, and an interest in hands‑on technical work. Apprentices will work alongside experienced technicians while developing practical skills used in real‑world test environments. Program Highlights Hands‑on instrumentation experience in a world‑class proving ground environment Earn while you learn: Fully paid two‑year apprenticeship with tuition support and benefits Direct mentorship from experienced instrumentation and development technicians Exposure to real test hardware, sensors, and data systems used in mining and construction equipment validation Technical Skills Developed Electrical wiring and cable fabrication Soldering and electronics assembly Sensor installation and calibration Data acquisition and measurement systems Signal verification and troubleshooting Technical documentation and schematic interpretation
Requirements
- Current enrollment at Pima Community College in a relevant program such as: Automated Industrial Technology (AIT), Electronics or Electrical Technology, Engineering Technology, Related technical or manufacturing programs
- Ability to commit to a minimum of 32 hours per week while completing related technical instruction. A typical shift is from 7 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
- Interest in instrumentation, electronics, and hands‑on technical work
- Basic computer skills, including use of Microsoft Office (Excel, Word)
- Comfortable using computers to access work instructions and technical documentation
Nice To Haves
- Prior experience with soldering, wiring, or cable assembly
- Exposure to instrumentation, sensors, or data acquisition systems
- Coursework AIT 123 - Applied Soldering, AIT 135 – Electronics Assembly & Fabrications or other relevant experience in electronics, electrical systems, or fabrications
- Experience using a multimeter or other electrical test equipment
- Strong attention to detail and quality
- Good communication and teamwork skills
Responsibilities
- Build, modify, and repair instrumentation cables and harnesses
- Install, maintain, and repair strain gages, sensors, and related instrumentation
- Perform soldering and fine assembly work to support instrumentation needs
- Assist with data acquisition system setup, troubleshooting, and basic verification
- Follow written work instructions, wiring diagrams, schematics, and engineering documentation
- Support testing activities by preparing instrumentation hardware for machines and components
- Develop foundational knowledge of instrumentation systems and test environments
- Learn and actively support Caterpillar’s safety culture and safe work practices
- Identify issues related to workmanship, durability, or functionality and communicate findings to supervisors
- Participate in continuous improvement (CI) activities focused on safety, quality, and efficiency
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 benefits
- Life Insurance
- Parental leave
- Adoption benefits
- Tuition Reimbursement
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
