Welder - FCAW

Overview

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.

Position: Experienced FCAW Welder – Heavy Plate

Location: Caterpillar Manufacturing Facility, South Milwaukee, WI

Shifts: 2nd & 3rd Shift

Sign-On & Retention Bonus: Up to $5,000

Hourly Pay:

• Step 1: $33.35
• Step 2: $34.59
• Step 3: $35.82
• + $1.00/hr Shift Premium for 2nd or 3rd Shift

About Caterpillar South Milwaukee:

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.

Job Summary:

As an Experienced FCAW Welder, you’ll perform high-quality welds on heavy structural steel components using Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW). You’ll work in a safety-first environment, contributing to the production of industry-leading equipment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Weld plain and alloy structural steel in all positions
• Follow standard work, blueprints, and documented procedures
• Perform multi-pass welds on heavy 2” plate
• Use jib or gantry cranes to position weld equipment
• Grind and dress fabricated weldments
• Operate forklifts, scissor lifts, and area lifts as needed

Required Qualifications:

• 3–5 years of FCAW experience, including 10+ multi-pass welds on 2” plate
• Proficiency in back gouging, carbon arcing, or air arcing
• Must pass 3 weld qualification tests using FCAW with large diameter wire (3/32” and .052”)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong safety mindset
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints
• Understanding of quality standards and defect-free welding
• Team-oriented with the ability to work independently
• Willingness to work overtime to meet production needs

Compensation & Benefits:

• Full-Time (40 hours/week)
• Paid Vacation & Holidays
• Parental Leave, Bereavement, Jury Duty, Military Duty Paid Benefits
• Health, Vision, Dental, Life Insurance – Effective Day One
• Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical & Dependent Care)
• 401(k) with 6% Company Match
• Referral Bonuses
• PPE Provided (including prescription safety glasses)
• Safety Boot Reimbursement
• Company Uniforms, Caps, Lockers, Showers
• Lunchroom with Self-Service Canteen
• Employee Assistance & Adoption Assistance Programs
• Recognition Programs & Advancement Opportunities

How to Apply & Additional Information:

Posting dates:
January 5, 2026 - April 5, 2026. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply. Employment is conditioned upon successful completion of a drug screen.

For more information about career opportunities, please visit the Caterpillar careers site.

Note: This description is intended to describe the general responsibilities and qualifications for the role and may be adjusted to meet business needs.