Machinist Apprentice

Caterpillar Inc.•Green Valley, AZ

5d•$19 - $28•Onsite

About The Position

The Machinist Apprentice Program at Caterpillar’s Tucson Proving Ground is a two-year, hands-on, competency-based program developed in partnership with Pima Community College. It combines structured on-the-job training with academic learning to develop skills supporting Caterpillar’s mining equipment operations. Apprentices gain exposure to large mining equipment and the engine, hydraulic, electronic, and powertrain systems that enable machine operation while progressing through defined learning milestones. This developmental role is intended for individuals with curiosity, mechanical aptitude, critical thinking capabilities, and an interest in hands-on work. Apprentices complete varied training assignments aligned with their skill development path under the guidance of experienced technicians. After successfully completing the program and required coursework, apprentices are prepared for continued development and potential advancement into machining or fabrication roles within Caterpillar. The program is based at the Tucson Proving Ground, a Caterpillar research, development, and validation facility. It is a fully paid two-year apprenticeship and includes tuition reimbursement and a competitive benefits package. The role requires a commitment of at least 32 hours per week while completing related technical instruction. A typical shift is 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Requirements

Currently enrolled in Pima Community College’s Machine Tool Technology program.
Able to commit to at least 32 hours per week while completing related technical instruction.
Strong interest in working around large mining equipment, such as mining trucks, dozers, and wheel loaders.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
Able to work in a physically demanding environment and varying conditions, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Able to sit, kneel, squat, or stand for prolonged periods.
Able to climb, work from, and descend ladders, platforms, and steps.
Able to operate lifting devices.

Nice To Haves

Working toward an Associate of Applied Science in Machine Tool Technology.
Completion of welding courses at Pima Community College, or willingness to take welding courses during the apprenticeship.
Experience with CNC programming.
Exposure to or knowledge of mechanical systems, instrumentation, or fabrication processes.
Project or team leadership experience.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Responsibilities

Assist experienced development machinists in producing parts needed for machine validation, with approximately 10% manual machining and 90% CNC machining.
Follow written work instructions, repair manuals, engineering drawings, specifications, and solid models to set up machine tooling accurately and meet specifications.
Develop foundational knowledge of mining machines and their systems to support improvements and identify possible concerns before manufacturing parts.
Learn and participate in Caterpillar’s safety culture, supporting continuous improvement in safe work practices.
Provide input to supervisors and teams on Continuous Improvement and capital projects focused on improving safety, quality, velocity, and cost.
Support supervisors in implementing Continuous Improvement ideas generated by team members.