1

Caterpillar Welding Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

... Caterpillar provided training by a Certified Welding Educator (CWE), Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or approved personnel * Safety is a core value at Caterpillar. We owe it to our employees and ...

... welding experience * Must be able to pass multiple welder qualification tests during the Caterpillar provided training * Ability to perform simple computer operations * Be available to work any shift

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do ... Welding Manufacturing Engineer Primary Location: Decatur, IL Travel: Up to 10% Relocation ...

Caterpillar Welding information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$14

$22

$33

How much do caterpillar welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for caterpillar welding in Decatur, IL is $22.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $25.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by caterpillar welders on the job?

Caterpillar Welders often work with heavy machinery components and are required to maintain precise weld quality, even on large or irregularly shaped parts, which can be physically demanding. Meeting tight production deadlines while adhering to strict safety and quality standards is another frequent challenge. Additionally, welders may need to quickly adapt to new materials, processes, or changes in production requirements. The role requires effective communication with supervisors and other team members to address issues and keep assembly lines running smoothly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in caterpillar welding, and why are they important?

To excel in Caterpillar Welding, you need proficiency in welding techniques such as MIG, TIG, and stick welding, along with a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant welding certifications. Familiarity with Caterpillar production equipment, blueprint reading, and safety protocols—often requiring AWS certification—is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and teamwork skills are highly valued in this role. These competencies ensure high-quality welds, workplace safety, and effective collaboration in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

What is caterpillar welding?

A Caterpillar Welding job involves welding and fabricating metal components used in Caterpillar machinery and equipment. Welders in this role follow blueprints, safety protocols, and quality standards to ensure strong and precise welds. They may work with various welding techniques, such as MIG, TIG, or arc welding, depending on the project. This job requires technical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of industry safety regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Caterpillar Welding jobs in Decatur, IL?

For Caterpillar Welding jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Caterpillar Welding jobs in Decatur, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Caterpillar Welding jobs in Decatur, IL are:

What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Caterpillar Welding jobs?

Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Caterpillar Welding job openings:

Infographic showing various Caterpillar Welding job openings in Decatur, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,937 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Early Career Welder - Decatur, IL

Caterpillar

Decatur, IL • On-site

$30.32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Caterpillar Inc. rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 480 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

288th of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job 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.
JOB DESCRIPTION:
Early Career Welder - Decatur, IL
Looking for an opportunity to become a more experienced welder, but have limited training? This is the opportunity for you! As a Fabrication Specialist Trainee, you will build on your training to set up, operate and adjust manual and/or automatic machines to perform welding operations in all positions.
Starting pay up to $28.22/hour. Welders will receive incremental increases for every 26 weeks of active work, with an opportunity to earn up to $30.32/hour.
Job Duties/Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
  • Perform manual finish welding operations on plain and alloy steels in all positions
  • Operate robotic welding equipment
  • Follow documented procedures and standard work to perform safe and defect free operations
  • Perform carbon arc cutting and gouging
  • Sanding may be required to dress welds
  • Use of jib and overhead crane to manually position work pieces

Required Qualifications:
  • Must be able to pass multiple welder qualification tests during the Caterpillar provided training
  • Ability to gain welder certification upon completion of classroom and hands on weld school training
  • Ability to become a qualified welder
  • Ability to perform simple computer operations
  • Ability to work overtime to support production demands

Desired Qualifications:
  • One (1) to three (3) years of GMAW welding experience
  • Technical school or equal educational background in mechanical or similar discipline
  • Experience using GMAW with 0.045" or larger wire
  • Experience welding ½" or greater thickness material

Top Candidates will also possess:
  • Good communication skills and strong commitment to safety and teamwork
  • Ability to work well individually or in a team environment

Additional Information:
  • This is a Full Time Position located at the Caterpillar manufacturing facility located in Decatur, IL
  • Shifts: 2nd or 3rd shift available
  • Welders may be placed on any shift, dependent on business needs dictate, and in some areas required to work an alternate work schedule.
  • No relocation package is available
  • Must be able to pass welder qualification requirements during the Caterpillar provided training by a Certified Welding Educator (CWE), Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or approved personnel
  • Safety is a core value at Caterpillar. We owe it to our employees and families to work in a safe and secure workplace. All candidates for employment must successfully pass a preemployment drug screen for prohibited substances.

Please ensure you frequently check the email account you provided on your application, including the junk/spam folder, as this is the primary correspondence method in our recruiting process.
Caterpillar is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as H, L, TN, F, J, E, O. 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
For more information, visit caterpillar.com. To connect with us on social media, visit caterpillar.com/social-media
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.
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:
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.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

What Caterpillar Inc. employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom