Career Pathways High School Program - Decatur - Welder

Career Area:

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.

Caterpillar Career Pathways Program

The 12‑month Caterpillar Career Pathways Program is designed to provide high school rising seniors with an opportunity to build foundational work skills in preparation for a long‑term career in the manufacturing trades at Caterpillar.

Selected students will participate in a multi‑phase program that develops both technical and non‑technical competencies needed for full‑time employment in welding and manufacturing upon high school graduation.

Program Structure

Participants will receive high school credit and a paid hourly wage from Caterpillar while gaining classroom and hands‑on experience throughout three phases:

• Phase I: Summer Internship
• Phase II: Fall Semester Co‑Op – For High School Credit
• Phase III: Spring Semester Co‑Op – For High School Credit

Welder

The Welder is responsible for performing a variety of fabrication and welding operations using both manual and automated equipment to support Caterpillar’s production needs.

Primary Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and adjust manual and/or automatic machines to perform welding and fabrication operations.
• Execute welding processes such as arc welding, automatic welding, electron beam welding, and hand brazing.
• Perform manual finish welding operations to ensure products meet quality and structural standards.
• Set up, operate, and adjust one or more numerical‑controlled (N/C) multifunctional manipulators equipped with end effectors for automatic welding tasks.
• Interpret work instructions, blueprints, and specifications to complete assignments accurately.
• Maintain safe work practices, proper equipment use, and adherence to quality standards throughout all welding and fabrication activities.

What Participants Gain

• Hands‑on experience in manufacturing operations
• Development of mechanical aptitude
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Paid work experience while earning high school credit
• Preparation for long‑term manufacturing careers at Caterpillar

Summary Pay Range:

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:

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.

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