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Mining Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Trainee Territory Sales Manager will be placed into an intensive 6-month hands-on training ... mining and agriculture. The company's marketplace brands include Ritchie Bros., the world's largest ...

The Trainee Territory Sales Manager will be placed into an intensive 6-month hands-on training ... mining and agriculture. The company's marketplace brands include Ritchie Bros., the world's largest ...

Position Overview The Aggregate Management Trainee role is a rotational development program ... This role emphasizes learning by doing--developing practical skills in production, mining ...

Outlying Tech 3

Miami, AZ · On-site

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Pinto Valley is an open-pit copper mine located at the west end of the historic Globe-Miami mining ... and/or equipment trainee duties while working towards the safety target of zero harm and ...

Outlying Tech 3

Miami, AZ · On-site

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Pinto Valley is an open-pit copper mine located at the west end of the historic Globe-Miami mining ... and/or equipment trainee duties while working towards the safety target of zero harm and ...

Showing results 21-40

Mining Trainee information

See salary details

$25.5K

$43.5K

$63.5K

How much do mining trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for mining trainee in the United States is $43,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,000.00 and $51,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by mining trainees during their initial months on the job?

Mining Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work, learning to operate heavy machinery safely, and understanding strict safety protocols. Adjusting to shift work and working in remote locations can also be an initial hurdle. However, structured training programs and mentorship from experienced miners help trainees build confidence and competence quickly. Open communication and a willingness to ask questions are key to overcoming these early challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mining trainee?

To thrive as a Mining Trainee, you need a basic understanding of mining operations, strong physical fitness, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with mining safety protocols, machinery operation, and sometimes certifications such as a White Card or First Aid are often required. Good communication, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are important soft skills in this environment. These skills and qualifications ensure safety, productivity, and the ability to learn and advance within the mining industry.

What is a mining trainee?

Mining trainees are entry-level workers who are learning the skills and knowledge required to work in the mining industry. They typically participate in training programs or apprenticeships that combine classroom instruction with practical, hands-on experience at mine sites. Mining trainees may learn about equipment operation, safety protocols, and the day-to-day tasks involved in extracting minerals or resources. This role is designed to prepare individuals for more specialized positions within the mining sector. Successful trainees often progress to roles such as machine operators, technicians, or supervisors.

What is the difference between Mining Trainee vs Mining Operator?

AspectMining TraineeMining Operator
Required CredentialsBasic certifications, on-the-job trainingCertifications, licenses, experience
Work EnvironmentSupervised, training-focusedOperational, hands-on
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level, training programsSkilled, operational roles

Mining Trainee positions are entry-level roles designed for individuals starting their careers, focusing on training and skill development. Mining Operators are experienced workers responsible for operating mining equipment and executing extraction tasks. While trainees learn on the job, operators perform the core operational duties in the mining industry.

More about Mining Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Mining Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Mining Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Mining jobs? The most popular types of Mining jobs are:
What states have the most Mining Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Mining Trainee jobs include:
Infographic showing various Mining Trainee job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,530 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Early Career Welder Trainee

Caterpillar

South Milwaukee, WI • On-site

$33.35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Caterpillar Inc. rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 478 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

266th of 487 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.
Early Career Welder Trainee
Location: South Milwaukee, WI
Pay and Shift Details
Sign-On & Retention Bonus: Up to $2,000
Shifts Available during training: 1st Shift or 2nd Shift
Shift Availability after training: 2nd Shift
Pay Progression
  • Trainee pay starting at $29.30/hour
  • Incremental wage increases tied to completion of training checkpoints and certifications
  • Upon successful completion of the training program pay increases to $33.35/hour
  • Shift Premium (if applicable): +$1.00/hour for 2nd Shift

Job Summary
Looking to start or grow your welding career? Join the Caterpillar South Milwaukee Welder Training Program and build the skills needed to become a certified production welder while earning competitive pay from day one.
Whether you've completed a welding course, gained hands-on experience in a school shop, worked in fabrication, or simply have a passion for welding, we'll help you develop your skills through structured training, mentorship, and real-world manufacturing experience. You'll learn from experienced welders while working on some of the largest and most impressive mining equipment in the world.
This is an opportunity to build a long-term skilled trades career with a global manufacturing leader.
About Caterpillar South Milwaukee
Our South Milwaukee facility manufactures Cat® Electric Rope Shovels, some of the largest and most powerful mining machines on Earth. These massive machines support mining operations around the world and represent the highest levels of welding, fabrication, and manufacturing excellence.
As a Welder Trainee, you'll receive hands-on training while contributing to the production of world-class equipment. You'll be challenged to continuously improve your skills, grow your technical knowledge, and take pride in building products that have a global impact.
If you're looking for a place to learn, grow, and build a rewarding welding career, Caterpillar South Milwaukee is the place to start.
What You'll Do
  • Learn and perform Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) in a manufacturing environment
  • Complete hands-on welding training through a structured development program
  • Work alongside experienced welders and receive mentorship and coaching
  • Read and follow work instructions, blueprints, and welding specifications
  • Grind, prepare, and finish weldments to quality standards
  • Support production of large structural steel components used in mining equipment
  • Maintain a safe work environment while following all Caterpillar safety expectations
  • Progress through welding certifications and skill checkpoints to advance your career and earnings

Minimum Qualifications
One of the following:
  • At least 1 year of welding experience in a manufacturing or fabrication environment
  • A 2-year Associate Degree in Welding from an accredited program
  • A 1-year Welding Technical Diploma or Certificate from an accredited program

Experience That Will Help You Succeed
  • Experience with Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)
  • Experience performing multi-pass welds
  • Familiarity with grinding, weld preparation, and metal fabrication
  • Exposure to blueprint reading, weld symbols, or fabrication drawings
  • Experience working with structural steel, heavy plate, or large weldments
  • Manufacturing, fabrication, construction, shipbuilding, railroad, military, or industrial experience

Personality Traits That Will Help You Succeed
  • Strong commitment to safety
  • Positive attitude and willingness to learn
  • Ability to accept coaching and apply feedback
  • Strong attention to detail and craftsmanship
  • Ability to identify quality concerns and continuously improve
  • Desire to develop technical skills and build a long-term career
  • Reliability, teamwork, and strong work ethics

Why Join Caterpillar?
  • Earn while you learn through a structured welding development program
  • Competitive starting pay with progression milestones built into the program
  • Mentorship from experienced welders and manufacturing professionals
  • Long-term career growth opportunities within Caterpillar
  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Day-one health, dental, and vision benefits

See the Work in Action
Check out welding at Caterpillar and see the type of equipment you'll help build:
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1EiikDZxJA/?mibextid=wwXIfr
How to Apply
Ready to build something big? Apply today and become part of a team that powers progress around the world.
Note: Please check your email (including spam/junk folders) regularly for updates throughout the hiring process.
Summary Pay Range:
$29.30 - $31.60
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:
August 4, 2026 - August 30, 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.

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