Structural Fitter / Fabricator

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.Structural Fitter / Fabricator – Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)Location: South Milwaukee, WIShift: 2nd or 3rd ShiftEmployment Type: Full‑TimeSign‑On & Retention Bonus: $2,000Pay ProgressionStep 1: $33.97/hourStep 2: $35.22/hourStep 3: $36.49/hourShift Premium: +$1.00/hour for 2nd or 3rd shiftJob SummaryAs a Structural Fitter / Fabricator (FCAW) at Caterpillar’s South Milwaukee facility, you will fit, assemble, and weld heavy structural steel components used to build some of the largest mining machines in the world, including Cat® Electric Rope Shovels (ERS). In this hands‑on role, you will perform precision fit‑up and multi‑pass welding on thick plate material while working from complex blueprints and documented procedures.You’ll join a safety‑first manufacturing team where craftsmanship, quality, and teamwork directly impact world‑class equipment used in mining operations around the globe. This role is ideal for experienced welders and fitters who take pride in heavy fabrication work and want stable, well‑paid manufacturing careers.About Caterpillar South MilwaukeeWhen you join Caterpillar, you’re joining a global team that 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.Our South Milwaukee facility specializes in the fabrication and assembly of Electric Rope Shovels, supporting mining customers worldwide with some of the most powerful machines ever built.Key ResponsibilitiesWeld plain and alloy structural steel in all positions using Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)Perform multi‑pass welds (10+ passes) on heavy plate (2+ inches thick)Read and interpret complex blueprints, weld symbols, and layout specificationsFit and assemble large structural weldments using jacks, clamps, jigs, and layout toolsClamp, tack weld, burn, air arc, and label components per blueprint and process requirementsUse jib, gantry, and overhead cranes to position large components safelyGrind and dress fabricated weldments to meet quality standardsOperate forklifts, scissor lifts, and aerial lifts as requiredRequired Skills5+ years of FCAW welding experience on heavy plate3+ years of structural fitting / fit‑up experience3+ years of blueprint reading and interpretationWorking knowledge of back gouging, carbon arcing, or air arcingAbility to pass:3 FCAW weld qualification tests2 structural fitter qualification testsPreferred SkillsStrong safety‑first mindset in heavy manufacturing environmentsAbility to work independently and as part of a teamProficiency with layout and measurement tools, including:Tape measure, level, surface gaugesTram points, calipers, combination setsWedges and blocksWillingness to work overtime to meet production demandsAdditional InformationFull‑time schedule: 40 hours/weekNo relocation assistance availablePre‑employment drug screen and medical evaluation requiredPlease monitor your email (including spam/junk folders) for application updatesApply TodayJoin a company that values your skills, supports your growth, and rewards your hard work.  Summary Pay Range:$27.40 - $36.49Compensation 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.