Diesel Technician Trainer

Western States Equipment; Montana; On-site; USD 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Western States Equipment is seeking a dedicated individual for the position of Caterpillar Technician Trainer in Montana. This role involves developing and delivering training programs aligned with the Technician Career Development Plan while ensuring a safe learning environment. Responsibilities include facilitating both in-house and client training, creating training materials, and maintaining compliance with safety standards.

The ideal candidate will have strong communication skills, technical knowledge of Caterpillar systems, and prior experience in mentoring technicians. Proficiency in English and a valid driver's license are also required.

Qualifications

• Proof of high school diploma or General Education Degree (GED).
• One year experience as a Caterpillar dealership technician preferred.
• Experience mentoring or leading technicians in an official or unofficial capacity.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver Caterpillar Technician education and training.
• Facilitate in-house and client training courses.
• Maintain and develop training materials and aids.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Competency in Caterpillar systems

Technical knowledge of Caterpillar software

Communication skills

Learning management systems usage

Adaptability to changing technologies

Ability to maintain relationships

Travel availability

Education

High school diploma or GED

Experience as a Caterpillar dealership technician

Tools

Caterpillar software programs

Microsoft programs

Learning management systems (SABA, Inkling)

Job description

Job Summary

This position is responsible for developing and delivering Caterpillar Technician education and training in alignment with the Technician Career Development Plan. It facilitates in-house and client training courses, maintains and develops training materials, aids, labs, records, and schedules. The role meets Caterpillar's requirements for instructor qualification as needed. It may involve traveling within Western State Equipment Company's territory to deliver training.

Essential Functions

Safety and Security

• Actively cares, promotes, manages, and advocates safety at Western States, ensuring all employees, vendors, and clients have a safe work environment while adhering to all applicable safety policies, procedures, and standards.
• Maintains clean and clutter‑free personal work areas to ensure safe environments for all WSECO employees.
• Adheres to required personal protective equipment (PPE) as identified in safety policy.

Classroom Instruction and Curriculum

• Delivers diesel technician training to WSECO employees and customers, focusing on Caterpillar systems and products such as engines, Tier 4, powertrains, electrical, hydraulics, HVAC, reusability, applied failure analysis, and other technician development areas.
• Develops and maintains the Technician Career Development Plan (TCDP) curriculum for all technician levels, aligning with business strategy objectives and directed by the Director of Talent Development and Technician Training Supervisor; actively advocates the TCDP with dealership technicians and supervisors.
• Performs LMS duties applicable to technician training, including creating and scheduling classes, managing rosters, and closing classes.
• Understands and delivers Caterpillar software training (STW, SIS, ET, TMI, Service Report Writing, Warranty Reports, etc.).
• Travels to WSECO regional training locations—Pocatello, Missoula, Liberty Lake, Meridian, and other branches as needed.
• Delivers a minimum of two weeks of training each month.
• Conducts employee development through 30‑, 60‑, and/or 90‑day follow‑up training sessions.
• Creates and maintains training aids and technical labs.
• Obtains and maintains Caterpillar instructor qualifications as needed (CIAP).
• Adheres to all customer‑care standards.
• Ensures all attendees of formal class experiences comply with safety policies, procedures, and standards.
• May assist with training and serve as a team member supporting Western States’ strategic programs, projects, and initiatives.
• Works within and promotes the corporate vision, mission, and values of the organization.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with a wide range of individuals and personalities.
• Competency and familiarity with Caterpillar equipment and systems (engines, powertrains, hydraulics, electrical, HVAC, emissions, supporting technology systems, etc.).
• Strong technical knowledge of Caterpillar software programs (STW/SIS/ET/TMI, Service Report Writing, Warranty Reports, etc.), Microsoft programs, and other required software applications.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to present information effectively to groups.
• Ability to utilize various learning management systems for development and delivery of training curriculum (SABA, Inkling, Open Sesame, etc.).
• Advocacy for the Human Resources/Talent Development department, Technician Career Development Plan, and other training initiatives.
• Adaptability to rapidly changing technologies and dynamic training curricula.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Availability to travel out of town and overnight as needed on a regular basis.
• Consistent attendance.

Education and Experience

• Proof of high school diploma or General Education Degree (GED).
• One‑year experience as a Caterpillar dealership technician with progressive job responsibilities and knowledge preferred.
• Experience mentoring or leading entry‑level to advanced‑level technicians in an unofficial or official capacity.
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record required.
• Proficiency in speaking, reading, comprehending, and writing in English.

Physical Characteristics

• Ability to stand for long periods, walk, sit, climb stairs repeatedly, reach (including above‑shoulder reaching), bend, stoop, push, pull, lean, and twist.
• Exposure to extreme temperatures and environments.
• Ability to lift up to 60 lbs in accordance with Western States’ Lifting Policy, including amount and approach.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this classification.