Machinist Trainee

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.

At Caterpillar’s East Peoria Building KK, our team is the power behind the iron. 

The work our team does extends far beyond the walls of our facility, as we manufacture critical components that help power Caterpillar machines to help solve our customers’ toughest challenges. From moving material at mines and quarries to building roads, infrastructure and cities around the world, our drivetrains transfer power to the ground and help turn machine capability into customer productivity.

At Caterpillar, safety is our top priority, and you’ll join a team where integrity matters and teamwork and excellence drive the results in every product we build. 

Whether you're beginning a manufacturing career or bringing years of experience, Building KK is a place where you can build great products, build strong relationships and build a career with global impact.

If you're someone who takes pride in quality work, embraces challenges and wants to be part of a team that builds products with global impact, you'll fit right in.

Role Definition:

Do you have the desire to be a CNC machinist and need the opportunity to learn? Caterpillar in East Peoria, IL is looking to hire entry level machining trainees. The Machining Trainee program is a paid program designed to provide a unique learning experience for highly motivated individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in machining. Positions available on 2nd and 3rd shifts after 4 - 6 weeks of training.

What You Will Do (including but not limited to):

Upon completion of the program, individuals will be able to:

• Set up and operate a variety of CNC machines used to produce high precision parts.
• Read blueprints & drawings to determine product dimensions and tolerances.
• Verify conformity of part to specification using measurement instruments such as micrometers or calipers.
• Accurately apply intermediate mathematical skill, including geometry, trigonometry, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and conversion of fractions and decimals.
• Ability to determine feed, speeds, and select tooling.

Basic Qualifications:

• Previous troubleshooting and equipment repair experience with agricultural, automotive, industrial, or military equipment.
• Good communication skills and strong commitment to safety and teamwork.
• Ability to work overtime when required, including weekends.

Top Candidates Will Have:

• Previous CNC training or experience.
• High mechanical aptitude.
• Excellent attitude and willingness to learn.
• Ability to work any shift.

Additional Information:

• 3rd shift: Monday - Friday 10:30PM - 6:30AM.
• Starting pay is $23.22 per hour.
• $1.00 an hour night shift premium.
• Overtime can be required
• Training is completed on 1st shift hours Monday - Friday.
• This is a supplemental position – minimum 40 hours per week with limited benefits available.
• Relocation is not offered for this position.
• This position requires no travel.
• Please frequently check the email associated with your application, including the junk/spam folder, as this is the primary correspondence method. If you wish to know the status of your application – please use the candidate log-in on our career website as it will reflect any updates to your status.

Summary Pay Range:

$0.00 - $0.00

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:

November 6, 2026 - November 22, 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.

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