Industrial Paint Specialist

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.

Paint Specialist

Location: South Milwaukee, WI

Shifts: 3rd Shift

Bonus: $2,000 Sign-On Bonus

Pay Progression:

• Step 1: $27.93/hr
• Step 2: $29.09/hr
• Step 3: $30.26/hr
• Shift Premium: +$1.00/hr for 3rd shift

About Caterpillar South Milwaukee

Caterpillar is hiring a Paint Specialist to support our manufacturing operations in South Milwaukee, WI.

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.

At our South Milwaukee facility, you’ll be part of a team that builds some of the largest and most powerful mining machines in the world. This facility specializes in the production of Cat® Electric Rope Shovels (ERS) used in mining operations around the world.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, prime, and paint parts, sub-assemblies, and complete machines (both prime and finish coats).
• Operate spray booths and maintain paint vault equipment.
• Operate shot blast equipment to clean materials prior to painting.
• Mix paints and adjust viscosity using thinners or heat as required.
• Apply coatings evenly using spray guns or hand brushes, ensuring proper stroke, spray pattern, and nozzle adjustment.
• Apply decals and masking as needed to meet quality standards.
• Position work manually or with jib/overhead cranes.
• Maintain cleanliness of facilities and equipment after use.

Required Qualifications

• 2+ years of industrial painting experience (prime and finish coats).
• Previous paint experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to determine sequence of operations and follow standard work instructions.
• Ability to apply coatings evenly using spray guns or hand brushes while maintaining correct stroke, spray pattern, nozzle adjustment, and air pressure.
• Familiarity with operating shot blast equipment and positioning work manually or with jib/overhead cranes.
• Knowledge of safety and inspection requirements in a paint environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience applying coatings on large components (frames, booms, cabs, etc.).
• Strong attention to detail and quality standards.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to work overtime to meet production demands.
• Skilled in identifying, cleaning, and preparing parts and sub-assemblies using wire brushes, scrapers, solvents, and masking materials.
• Proficiency in mixing paints and adjusting viscosity for proper application.

Benefits Starting Day One

• Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• 401(k) with 6% company match
• Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Parental Leave
• PPE and Safety Boot Reimbursement
• Uniforms, Lockers, Showers, and On-site Canteen
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Adoption Assistance Program
• Bonuses for New Hires and Referrals

Additional Info

• Full-time, 40 hours/week
• No relocation assistance
• Pre-employment drug screen and medical evaluation required
• Please check your email (including spam/junk folders) for updates

Apply Today

Join a company that values your skills, supports your growth, and rewards your hard work.

Please ensure you frequently check the email account you provided on your application, including the junk/spam folder, as this is the primary correspondence method in our recruiting process.

Caterpillar is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as H, L, TN, F, J, E, O. As a global company, Caterpillar offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S. which can be found through our employment website at www.caterpillar.com/careers

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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