2

Entry Level Caterpillar Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Welder - Hiring Now

Del Mar, CA · On-site

$30.06 - $45.09/hr

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do ... This position is for entry level welders who are able to use the necessary equipment for MIG and ...

Structural Welder

San Diego, CA · On-site

$30.06 - $45.09/hr

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do ... This position is for entry level welders who are able to use the necessary equipment for MIG and ...

Structural Welder

Del Mar, CA · On-site

$30.06 - $45.09/hr

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do ... This position is for entry level welders who are able to use the necessary equipment for MIG and ...

Structural Welder

San Diego, CA · On-site

$30.06 - $45.09/hr

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do ... This position is for entry level welders who are able to use the necessary equipment for MIG and ...

Structural Welder

San Diego, CA · On-site

$30.06 - $45.09/hr

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do ... This position is for entry level welders who are able to use the necessary equipment for MIG and ...

Structural Welder

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$30.06 - $45.09/hr

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do ... This position is for entry level welders who are able to use the necessary equipment for MIG and ...

Structural Welder

San Diego, CA · On-site

$30.06 - $45.09/hr

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do ... This position is for entry level welders who are able to use the necessary equipment for MIG and ...

Structural Welder

San Diego, CA · On-site

$30.06 - $45.09/hr

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do ... This position is for entry level welders who are able to use the necessary equipment for MIG and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Caterpillar Engineer information

See salary details

$40.5K

$86.4K

$142.5K

How much do entry level caterpillar engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level caterpillar engineer in the United States is $86,381.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $103,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Caterpillar Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Caterpillar Engineer, a strong background in mechanical or electrical engineering, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree are essential. Familiarity with CAD software, engineering project management tools, and knowledge of Caterpillar's systems or Six Sigma certification are commonly required. Effective teamwork, communication skills, and a willingness to learn are crucial soft skills that set candidates apart. These competencies ensure high-quality engineering solutions, smooth project collaboration, and professional growth in a technically demanding environment.

What types of projects or assignments can an Entry Level Caterpillar Engineer expect to work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level Caterpillar Engineer, you will typically be involved in a mix of product development, design improvements, and testing assignments. Your initial projects may include supporting senior engineers in creating prototypes, analyzing performance data, and troubleshooting machinery issues. You'll often collaborate with cross-functional teams such as manufacturing, quality assurance, and supply chain to ensure products meet Caterpillar’s standards. This exposure helps you build technical expertise and understand the company’s engineering processes, setting the stage for future career advancement.

What does an Entry Level Caterpillar Engineer do?

An Entry Level Caterpillar Engineer typically works on designing, testing, and improving products and machinery manufactured by Caterpillar Inc., such as construction and mining equipment. They assist senior engineers with technical projects, troubleshooting, and product development. Entry level engineers may also be involved in data analysis, field testing, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure product quality and performance. This role is ideal for recent engineering graduates who want to gain hands-on experience in a global industrial company.

What is the difference between Entry Level Caterpillar Engineer vs Entry Level Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Caterpillar EngineerEntry Level Mechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Civil, or related engineering; some roles prefer industry-specific certificationsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; optional certifications like Fundamentals of Engineering (FE)
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, equipment testing sites, field serviceDesign offices, manufacturing facilities, R&D labs
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in heavy machinery, construction, and agriculture sectorsBroadly in automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and energy sectors

Entry Level Caterpillar Engineers and Entry Level Mechanical Engineers share similar educational backgrounds and certifications. However, Caterpillar engineers focus more on heavy machinery, equipment testing, and field service environments, while mechanical engineers often work in design, R&D, and diverse industries. The roles overlap in foundational skills but differ in industry focus and work settings.

More about Entry Level Caterpillar Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Caterpillar Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Caterpillar Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Caterpillar Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Caterpillar Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Caterpillar Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Caterpillar Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Caterpillar Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,381 per year, or $41.5 per hour.
Welder - Hiring Now

$30.06 - $45.09/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Solar Turbines rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

61st of 415 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Career Area:
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.
This position is for entry level welders who are able to use the necessary equipment for MIG and TIG welding of structures, enclosures, and other components, as well as general fabrication and refurbishment, and operating equipment and heavy machinery.
Nature and Scope
An employee in this position must be able to work with their peers as well as individually, and follow directions from team leads, supervisors, and managers. They must follow work instructions and processes, weld according to part drawings, execute tasks, and assist higher level welders. Employees in this position are expected to learn from higher level employees and must ask for help and/or instruction when unsure how to handle a task.
They must have the ability to take guidance, feedback, and priority from Team Leads, Inspector, Welding Engineer, supervisor, or respective manager to continually improve performance, productivity and/or quality of completed product.
Employees in this role must pass and maintain required welding qualification tests. They must be fully able to read, comply and understand welding procedures, and must be able to climb and work from ladders, scissor/man lifts, and scaffolds.
Equipment that may need to be set up and operated to complete duties:
• Welding equipment for GTAW, GMAW, or FCAW
• Fabrication equipment such as a saw, grinder or drill press
• Measurement tools and gauges for checking work
• Forklift or crane for moving materials, tools, and equipment
• Computer for completing work orders, recording work hours, and online training
• Welding equipment and software for semi- automated or automated machines
• Other equipment that may be necessary for completion of work
Principal Accountabilities
• Comply with all of Solar's Environmental, Health and Safety Programs, Regulations and Guidelines, Policies, procedures, and best practices; use proper PPE, proper tools, etc.
• Weld primarily per AWS D1.1, minor welding per ASME B31.3
• Clean welds including the cutting and repairing of unacceptable welds
• Ensure that the welding procedures have been followed and quality has not been compromised
• Take feedback on their work, and correct work that is not up to standard
• Provide welding/ fabrication support to other departments as needed (i.e., mock-up, rework, stud shooting, etc.)
• Participate in Lean Continuous Improvement projects and trainings on safety, quality, velocity, and cost
• Meet or exceed individual and team performance metrics for quality and on time delivery
Qualifications
• Must be able to recognize and avoid hazards and unsafe operation of equipment
• Must have experience with GMAW (MIG), FCAW (Flux Core), and/or GTAW (TIG) welding
• Must be able to certify on specified welding methods within required timeline.
• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
• Familiarity with shop floor procedures is strongly preferred.
• Annual eye exam may be required
• Annual hearing conservation exam may be required
Will be required to take a welding test to demonstrate proficiency prior to being hired.
Summary Pay Range:
$30.06-$$45.09
Compensation and benefits 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
  • Sign on Bonus

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees
Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Posting Dates:
May 14, 2026 - May 28, 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.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

What Solar Turbines employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom