Welder Trainee Program

Caterpillar Inc.•Athens, GA
•$14 - $24•Onsite

About The Position

Caterpillar is hiring entry-level welding trainees at its Athens, Georgia facility for a paid, six-week welding development program. Trainees learn welding skills and, upon successful completion, may be placed on the second or third shift as a Welder. During the program, trainees must pass Caterpillar-provided AWS D1.1 welder qualifications. Welds are inspected visually, destructively tested with bend tests, and sectioned to verify proper penetration. Trainees who do not pass the qualification but meet other performance expectations may be offered an open entry-level operations position.

Requirements

  • Steady hands and good hand-eye coordination for precise welds.
  • Attention to detail to ensure high-quality welds and adherence to specifications.
  • Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot and resolve issues during welding tasks.
  • Safety awareness and commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.
  • Effective communication with team members and supervisors.
  • Willingness to learn new techniques and adapt to different materials and welding conditions.
  • Strong sense of responsibility, reliability, and dedication to producing quality work.
  • Pass the AWS D1.1 fillet tests in the 2F (horizontal), 3F (vertical), and 4F (overhead) positions, and the limited-thickness groove test in the 1G (flat groove) position during the six-week training program.
  • Submit an application with work history or a resume; blank applications may lead to disqualification.
  • Successfully complete a drug screen as a condition of employment.

Nice To Haves

  • Enjoy working with your hands.
  • Experience in a skilled trade such as automotive mechanics, HVAC, plumbing, diesel mechanics, carpentry, or electrical work.
  • Experience in farming, artistic fields, or mechanical fields.

Responsibilities

  • Operate robotic and manual MIG weld machines.
  • Perform quality checks using weld gauges and other measuring tools.
  • Repair defective welds.
  • Follow documented procedures and standard work to ensure safe, defect-free operations.
  • Use lifting devices to move heavy components weighing over 35 pounds.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • Paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and volunteer time
  • 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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