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Skills Trade Trainee – Morton, IL

Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation, Morton, IL, United States


Career Area:

Operations

Job Description:

Overview Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc. When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team that 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 per 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 per 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

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 for updates

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.

EEO Statement Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.

Benefits Summary

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

Compensation 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.

Posting Dates April 8, 2026 - April 19, 2026

Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.

Apply Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

We do not currently hire individuals 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.

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