Welder Trainee Program

Caterpillar Inc.; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 19,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision benefits

Paid time off plan

401(k) savings plans

Health Savings Account (HSA)

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Career Development

Incentive bonus

Tuition Reimbursement

Job summary

Caterpillar Inc. in Athens, GA, offers an entry-level welding trainee program designed to develop skilled welders. The six-week training leads to opportunities on 2nd or 3rd shift with pay progression to $24.34/hour after successful completion. Resumes encouraged; drug screen required for employment.

The program emphasizes learning to operate MIG weld equipment, perform quality checks, and follow safety and standard work while ramping up to more complex tasks on the shop floor.

Qualifications

• Must have strong manual dexterity for precise welds.
• Attention to detail to ensure high-quality welds and adherence to specs.
• Able to troubleshoot and resolve welding issues.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and safe work practices.

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 safety and quality.
• Move heavy components over 35 lbs using lifting devices.

Skills

Manual Dexterity

Attention to Detail

Problem-Solving Skills

Safety Awareness

Communication Skills

Adaptability

Work Ethic

Education

AWS D1.1 welder qualification

Tools

MIG welding equipment

Welding gauges

Job description

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

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.

Watch our video to see our team build top-of-the-line excavators and tractors.

Are you passionate about becoming a welder and eager to learn? The Caterpillar facility in Athens, GA, is seeking entry-level welding trainees!

Our paid welding trainee program offers a unique learning experience for highly motivated individuals interested in a welding career. After 6 weeks of training, you'll have the opportunity to work on the 2nd or 3rd shift.

As a Welder At Caterpillar, You Will

• 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 and defect-free operations
• Use lifting devices to move heavy components over 35 lbs.

What You Bring

• Manual Dexterity: Steady hands and good hand-eye coordination for precise welds
• Attention to Detail: Focus on small details to ensure high-quality welds and adherence to specifications
• Problem-Solving Skills: Quick thinking to troubleshoot and resolve issues during welding tasks
• Safety Awareness: Knowledge of safety protocols and a commitment to maintaining a safe work environment
• Communication Skills: Effective communication with team members and supervisors to meet requirements
• Adaptability: Willingness to learn new techniques and adapt to different materials and welding conditions
• Work Ethic: Strong sense of responsibility, reliability, and dedication to producing quality work

What Will Set You Apart

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

Additional Information

• Pay is $19.28/hour during 6-week training.
• Upon successful completion of the program, you will be placed on the 2nd or 3rd shift at $24.34/hour (includes an 8%-night shift premium).
• You must pass the following AWS D1.1 welder qualifications during the Caterpillar-provided 6-week welder development training:
  • Fillet test in the 2F (horizontal), 3F (vertical) and 4F (overhead) positions
  • Limited thickness groove test in the 1G (flat groove) position
  • Welds will be inspected visually, destructively tested (bend test), and sectioned to verify proper penetration.
  • If you do not pass the AWS D1.1 welder qualification but meet all other performance expectations, we may offer you the opportunity to transfer to an open entry-level operations position.
  • Resumes are encouraged. Do not submit a blank application (no work history / resume). This may lead to disqualification.

Summary Pay Range

$13.65 - $19.28

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

• 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

August 4, 2026 - August 30, 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.