Instrumentation Apprentice

Location: Green Valley, Arizona

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 environment

Earn while you learn: Fully paid two‑year apprenticeship with tuition support and benefits

Direct mentorship from experienced instrumentation and development technicians

Exposure to real test hardware, sensors, and data systems used in mining and construction equipment validation

Technical Skills Developed

Electrical wiring and cable fabrication

Soldering and electronics assembly

Sensor installation and calibration

Data acquisition and measurement systems

Signal verification and troubleshooting

Technical documentation and schematic interpretation

Job Responsibilities

Build, modify, and repair instrumentation cables and harnesses

Install, maintain, and repair strain gages, sensors, and related instrumentation

Perform soldering and fine assembly work to support instrumentation needs

Assist with data acquisition system setup, troubleshooting, and basic verification

Follow written work instructions, wiring diagrams, schematics, and engineering documentation

Support testing activities by preparing instrumentation hardware for machines and components

Develop foundational knowledge of instrumentation systems and test environments

Learn and actively support Caterpillar’s safety culture and safe work practices

Identify issues related to workmanship, durability, or functionality and communicate findings to supervisors

Participate 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 Technology

Engineering Technology

Related technical or manufacturing programs

Ability 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 work

Basic 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 environment

Ability to sit, stand, kneel, or reach for extended periods

Ability to work with small components requiring fine motor skills

Ability to lift and handle tools, cables, and test equipment

Preferred Qualifications

Prior experience with soldering, wiring, or cable assembly

Exposure to instrumentation, sensors, or data acquisition systems

Coursework AIT 123 - Applied Soldering, AIT 135 – Electronics Assembly & Fabrications or other relevant experience in electronics, electrical systems, or fabrications

Experience using a multimeter or other electrical test equipment

Strong attention to detail and quality

Good communication and teamwork skills

Additional Information

Please attach your resume and an unofficial copy of your transcript with your application

Relocation 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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