TPG Machinist Apprentice
Green Valley, CA - USA
Job Summary
Career Area:
OperationsJob Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar yourejoining 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 dontjust 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.
The Machinist Apprentice Program at the Tucson Proving Ground is a two-year hands-on immersive competency-based program developed in partnership with Pima Community College. The program provides structured on-the-job training alongside academic learning to develop the skills needed to support Caterpillars mining equipment operations. Apprentices gain exposure to large mining equipment and the engine hydraulic electronic and powertrain systems that enable machine operation while progressing through defined learning milestones.
This is a learning focused and developmental role designed for individuals with curiosity mechanical aptitude critical thinking capabilities and a passion for hands-on work. Throughout the program apprentices work through a variety of training assignments aligned to their skill development path working under the guidance of experienced technicians. Upon successful completion of the program and required coursework apprentices are prepared for continued growth and potential advancement into machining or fabrication roles within Caterpillar.
Program Highlights
One-of-a-kind location: Based at the Tucson Proving Groundone of Caterpillars premier research development and validation facilities
Handson mentorship: Develop skills alongside worldclass machinist
Earn while you learn: Structured fully paid two-year apprentice program providing tuition reimbursement and competitive benefits package.
Exposure to worldclass research development and validation operations
Job Responsibilities
Assist experienced development Machinist in producing parts necessary for machine validation - 10% manual machining 90% CNC
Follow written work instructions repair manuals engineering drawings specifications and solid models to set up machine tooling accurately to meet specifications
Develop foundational knowledge of mining machines and their systems to support improvements and identify possible concerns prior to manufacturing parts
Learn and actively participate in Caterpillars strong safety culture supporting continuous improvement in safe work practices
Provide input to supervisors and teams on Continuous Improvement (CI) and capital projects focused on improving safety quality velocity and cost
Support supervisors in implementing CI ideas generated by team members.
Required Qualifications
Current enrollment in an eligible Pima Community College program such as: Machine Tool Technology.
Ability to commit to a minimum of 32 hours per week while completing related technical instruction. A typical shift is from 7 a.m. 3:30 p.m.
Strong interest in working around large mining equipment (e.g. mining trucks dozers wheel loaders)
Working knowledge Microsoft Office (Excel Word PowerPoint)
Physical Requirements (with or without reasonable accommodation):
Ability to work in a physically demanding environment and varying conditions
Ability to sit kneel squat or stand for prolonged periods
Ability to climb work from and descend ladders/platforms/steps
Ability to operate lifting devices
Preferred Qualifications
Completion of welding courses at Pima Community College and/or are willing to take welding courses while in the apprenticeship program
Experience with CNC programming
Exposure to or knowledge of mechanical systems instrumentation or fabrication processes
Project or team leadership experience
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Additional Information
Please attach your resume and an unofficial copy of your transcript with your application
TPG employees follow a 9/80 work schedule providing an extra day off every other weekequivalent to 26 additional days off per year to support worklife balance.
Relocation assistance is not available.
Sponsorship is not available for this position
Summary Pay Range:
$18.65 - $27.95Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors job level market locationjob-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:
March 27 2026 - April 26 2026Any 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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About Company
Caterpillar is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial turbines and diesel-electric locomotives.