Instrumentation Apprentice

Employer description

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.

The Instrumentation Lab Apprentice Program at the Tucson Proving Ground (TPG) is a two‑year, paid apprenticeship developed in partnership with Pima Community College. This program provides hands‑on, structured training for students interested in instrumentation, sensors, electronics, data acquisition systems, signal measurement, and electrical troubleshooting supporting Caterpillar’s product testing and validation activities.

This is a learning‑focused, developmental role designed for individuals with strong attention to detail, mechanical and electrical aptitude, and an interest in hands‑on technical work. Apprentices will work alongside experienced technicians while developing practical skills used in real‑world test environments.

Program Highlights

Hands‑on instrumentation experience in a world‑class proving ground environmentEarn while you learn: Fully paid two‑year apprenticeship with tuition support and benefitsDirect mentorship from experienced instrumentation and development techniciansExposure to real test hardware, sensors, and data systems used in mining and construction equipment validation
Technical Skills Developed

Electrical wiring and cable fabricationSoldering and electronics assemblySensor installation and calibrationData acquisition and measurement systemsSignal verification and troubleshootingTechnical documentation and schematic interpretation
Job Responsibilities

Build, modify, and repair instrumentation cables and harnessesInstall, maintain, and repair strain gages, sensors, and related instrumentationPerform soldering and fine assembly work to support instrumentation needsAssist with data acquisition system setup, troubleshooting, and basic verificationFollow written work instructions, wiring diagrams, schematics, and engineering documentationSupport testing activities by preparing instrumentation hardware for machines and componentsDevelop foundational knowledge of instrumentation systems and test environmentsLearn and actively support Caterpillar’s safety culture and safe work practicesIdentify issues related to workmanship, durability, or functionality and communicate findings to supervisorsParticipate in continuous improvement (CI) activities focused on safety, quality, and efficiency
Required Qualifications

Current enrollment at Pima Community College in a relevant program such as:Automated Industrial Technology (AIT)Electronics or Electrical TechnologyEngineering TechnologyRelated technical or manufacturing programsAbility 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.Interest in instrumentation, electronics, and hands‑on technical workBasic computer skills, including use of Microsoft Office (Excel, Word)Comfortable using computers to access work instructions and technical documentation
Physical Requirements (with or without reasonable accommodation)

Ability to work in a hands‑on, technical lab environmentAbility to sit, stand, kneel, or reach for extended periodsAbility to work with small components requiring fine motor skillsAbility to lift and handle tools, cables, and test equipment
Preferred Qualifications

Prior experience with soldering, wiring, or cable assemblyExposure to instrumentation, sensors, or data acquisition systemsCoursework AIT 123 - Applied Soldering, AIT 135 – Electronics Assembly & Fabrications or other relevant experience in electronics, electrical systems, or fabricationsExperience using a multimeter or other electrical test equipmentStrong attention to detail and qualityGood communication and teamwork skills
Additional Information

Please attach your resume and an unofficial copy of your transcript with your applicationRelocation assistance is not available.Sponsorship is not available for this position  

Summary Pay Range:

$18.65 - $27.95

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:

September 25, 2026 - October 18, 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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