Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) – Flux Cored Arc Weldin

Career Area:OperationsJob 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.Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) – Flux Cored Arc WeldingLocation: Caterpillar Manufacturing Facility, South Milwaukee, WIShift: 3rd ShiftSign-On & Retention Bonus: Up to $2,000Hourly Pay: $31.79/ Base Pay+$1.62/hr with PT/MT Certification+$3.23/hr with UT Level 1 Certification+$1.00/hr Shift Premium for 3rd ShiftAbout Caterpillar South MilwaukeeWhen you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do – but about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don’t just talk about progress and innovation — we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world.At our South Milwaukee facility, you’ll support the production of some of the largest and most powerful mining machines in the world. This site specializes in the manufacture of Cat® Electric Rope Shovels (ERS) used in mining operations globally, leveraging advanced welding and fabrication technologies.Job SummaryAs a Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) at Caterpillar’s South Milwaukee manufacturing facility, you will serve as a technical authority for weld quality and compliance on large, complex welded structures.This role is heavily focused on Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) processes supporting the manufacture of Cat® Electric Rope Shovels (ERS) used in global mining operations. You will perform in‑process and final inspections, validate weld procedures, and partner with welding, engineering, and quality teams to ensure structural integrity, safety, and adherence to AWS and Caterpillar standards.This is a hands‑on, production‑floor role ideal for experienced CWIs who thrive in heavy manufacturing environments. Your expertise directly impacts product reliability, operator safety, and customer trust.Key ResponsibilitiesPerform in‑process, final, and audit inspections of welded components with a strong focus on FCAW weldsInspect large structural weldments for compliance with AWS D1.1, engineering drawings, WPS, and Caterpillar quality standardsVerify welder qualifications, welding parameters, joint fit‑up, preheat/interpass temperatures, and post‑weld conditionsIdentify weld discontinuities and defects; document findings and drive corrective actions with production and engineering teamsSupport root cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives related to weld quality and rework reductionPartner closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Welding Engineering, and Production teams on process optimizationEnsure compliance with OSHA safety requirements and Caterpillar safety policiesMaintain accurate inspection records and quality documentation within manufacturing systemsProvide technical guidance and mentoring to welding operators and inspectors as neededRequired QualificationsActive Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) certification (AWS)Demonstrated experience inspecting Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) in a manufacturing or heavy fabrication environmentStrong knowledge of welding symbols, blueprints, WPS/PQR documentation, and inspection methodsHands‑on experience with visual inspection and weld quality evaluation of heavy plate and structural weldmentsUnderstanding of welding metallurgy, defect identification, and weld acceptance criteriaAbility to work independently on 3rd shift in a production environmentStrong documentation, communication, and problem‑solving skillsPreferred QualificationsExperience supporting large, complex welded structures (mining, construction, or heavy equipment)Exposure to automated or robotic welding systemsFamiliarity with Caterpillar Production System (CPS), Lean, or continuous improvement toolsProficiency using Microsoft Office and manufacturing quality systemsPrevious experience in high‑mix, low‑volume manufacturing environmentsHow to ApplyReady to help shape the future of welded manufacturing at Caterpillar? Apply today and become part of a team that builds the equipment powering industries around the world.Note: Please check your email (including spam/junk folders) regularly for updates throughout the hiring process.  Summary Pay Range:$26.89 - $29.14Compensation 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 benefitsLife InsuranceParental leaveAdoption benefitsTuition Reimbursement       * These benefits also apply to part-time employees        Posting Dates:June 2, 2026 - July 2, 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.Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.