Skills Trade Trainee - Morton, IL

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.

Get Paid to Learn!

Caterpillar has an exciting opportunity for a Skills Trade Trainee at our Morton, Illinois facility! This full-time apprenticeship combines on-the-job learning with college coursework, offering a starting pay of $21.49/hour ( Pay increases tied to demonstrated skill progression).

This program is a direct pathway into skilled trades at Morton. Over approximately 36 months, trainees gain hands-on experience in maintenance and industrial electrical work while completing a fully funded Associate's Degree through Illinois Central College. All tuition, books, and fees are covered.

By the end of the program, trainees will be prepared to advance into Industrial Electrician or Maintenance Mechanic positions.

What You'll Be Learning and Doing

Maintenance Mechanic

• Troubleshoot and maintain a variety of equipment

• Learn basic electrical and circuitry fundamentals

• Understand machine power transmission concepts

• Read and interpret prints and schematics

• Operate basic machine tools

• Perform hydraulic system repair and maintenance

• Conduct industrial rigging and hoist/lift operations

• Learn basic CNC functions

• Complete additional maintenance tasks as assigned

Industrial Electrician

• Diagnose and repair electrical issues

• Install and maintain commercial wiring systems

• Work with advanced circuitry and electrical components

• Use test equipment such as oscilloscopes and signal generators

• Calibrate and maintain electronic testing devices

• Perform preventative electrical maintenance

• Support electrical work throughout the facility

What You Need to Bring

• Interest in learning technical skills

• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities

• Ability to pass a two-hour skills assessment at program completion

Preferred Background

• Previous electrical work or training

• Familiarity with reading schematics or blueprints

• Experience with basic machine shop tools

Physical Expectations

• Comfortable working around high-voltage equipment, heavy machinery, and elevated areas

• Able to stand for long periods (8-12 hours)

• Able to work in tight or congested spaces when required

What You'll Receive

• A workplace that prioritizes safety in every task

• $21.49/hour starting pay, with increases tied to skill progression

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits

• Paid time off

• 401(k) plan

• Access to wellness programs

• Fully funded Associate's Degree in Applied Science through ICC ([number of credit hours] credit hours)

• Scheduled class days count as paid 8-hour workdays

• Non-class days spent completing hands-on training at the Morton facility

Pre-Employment Requirements

All candidates must pass:

• Background screening

• Drug screening

• Post-offer medical questionnaire and clearance from Corporate Medical

Additional Details

• Full benefits included

• Position based in Morton, Illinois

• Relocation assistance is not available

• Applicants should monitor the email used on their application (including spam/junk folders) for updates. Status can also be viewed through the candidate portal.

Safety Commitment:

Safety is a core value at Caterpillar. All candidates must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen to ensure a safe and secure workplace.

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

Caterpillar is not currently hiring individuals for this position who now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status; however, 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:

$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:

April 8, 2026 - April 19, 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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