Production Associate (Paint)

Caterpillar Inc.; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 27,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

Paid time off

401(k) savings

HSA

FSAs

Career development

Incentive bonus

Parental leave

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Caterpillar Inc. in Athens, GA is seeking a Production Associate (Paint) to support production schedules. You will perform tasks such as masker/demasker, load/unload, caulker, and pre-inspection while following safety procedures.

Starting pay ranges from $19.28/hour on 1st shift to $20.82/hour on 2nd/3rd shifts, with a night shift premium on certain schedules; training is provided and overtime may be required.

Qualifications

• Prior work experience is required.
• Ability to sit or stand for prolonged periods.
• Ability to perform repetitive operations.
• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs.

Responsibilities

• As a Production Associate (Paint), you will complete tasks to meet production schedules such as masker/demasker, load/unload, caulker, pre-inspection, blow off operator, shot blast operator, and other duties as assigned.
• Additional training may be provided to drive forklifts.

Skills

Prior work experience

Prolonged standing

Repetitive tasks

Lifting up to 35 lbs

Job 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.

Career Area

Operations

Job Description

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.

What You Will Do

As a Production Associate (Paint), you will complete various tasks to meet production schedules, which can include masker/demasker, load/unload, caulker, pre-inspection, blow off operator, shot blast operator, and other duties as assigned. Additional training may be provided for qualified candidates to drive forklifts. This position does not require associates to have prior experience painting in an industrial setting. You must follow required safety procedures at all times; all required personal protective equipment for these roles are provided by Caterpillar.

What You Have

• Prior work experience
• Ability to sit or stand for prolonged periods
• Ability to perform repetitive operations
• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs.

Top Candidates Will Also Have

• Experience with Forklifts
• Experience in masking/demasking, loading/unloading, shot blasting, etc
• Experience in equipment paint processing
• Experience in top coat, prime coat and electrostatic paint
• Ability to read blueprints / engineering drawings

What You Will Get

You have a lot to offer, so we offer a commitment in return to you as a professional – and as a person. We offer competitive wages, quarterly bonus, comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision, RX, and 401K) paid holidays, paid time off and paid training that begin on day one of employment!

1st Shift:

$19.28/hour

• Monday-Thursday 4 day/10-hour shift schedule
• Start time determined by role, ten-hour shift beginning at either 7 a.m., 8 a.m. or 11 a.m. (The 11 a.m. shift receives the 8%-night shift premium.)

2nd Shift:

$20.82/hour (includes 8%-night shift premium)

• Monday-Thursday 4 day/10-hour shift schedule
• Start time determined by role, ten-hour shift beginning at either 4 p.m. or 5 p.m.

3rd Shift:

$20.82/hour (includes 8%-night shift premium)

• Sunday-Thursday 4 day/10-hour shift schedule
• Start time determined by role, eight-hour shift beginning at either 9 p.m., 10 p.m. or 1 a.m.
• Role requires overtime as needed to support business needs

Additional Information

• Resumes are encouraged. Do not submit a blank application (no work history / resume). This may lead to disqualification.
• Successful candidates must pass an online assessment, interview, background check, drug screen and medical review.

About Caterpillar

Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. For nearly 100 years, we’ve been helping customers build a better, more sustainable world and are committed and contributing to a reduced-carbon future. Our innovative products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value that helps customers succeed.

Summary Pay Range

$19.28 - $24.12

Compensation 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 benefits
• Life Insurance
• Parental leave
• Adoption benefits
• Tuition Reimbursement
• These benefits also apply to part-time employees

Posting Dates

September 24, 2026 - November 29, 2026

Any 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.