Description
Career Area:
OperationsJob 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.
Finish Grinder – 3rd Shift
Location: South Milwaukee, WI
Shift: 3rd Shift - 11pm-7am
Bonus: $2,000 Sign-On Bonus
Pay Progression:
• Step 1: $23.79/hr
• Step 2: $24.25/hr
• Step 3: $24.71/hr
• Shift Premium: +$1.00/hr for 3rd shift
Job Summary
As a Finish Grinder, you will play a critical role in preparing and refining precision components for assembly within a heavy manufacturing environment. This position focuses on cleaning, deburring, grinding, polishing, and fitting parts such as gears, shafts, and sub-assemblies to ensure they meet quality specifications. You will utilize a range of hand tools, power tools, and measurement instruments while working from blueprints and process instructions. The role requires strong attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and a commitment to safety and quality. This is an excellent opportunity for skilled manufacturing professionals who take pride in craftsmanship and contributing to the production of high-performance equipment.
Key Responsibilities
Perform finish grinding, polishing, deburring, and cleaning of parts and components
Grind and polish gear tooth edges, roots, and complex surfaces to specification
Use hand tools and power tools including grinders, drills, presses, and deburring equipment
Interpret blueprints, drawings, and templates to ensure quality standards are met
Measure and inspect parts using calipers, squares, scales, and feeler gauges
Assist in simple assemblies and sub-assemblies, including fitting keys, splines, bushings, and brake bands
Position and align components using cranes, hoists, jacks, and clamping devices
Load, secure, and move large components using overhead cranes and material handling equipment
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
Follow all safety, quality, and inspection procedures
Required Skills
Minimum 2+ years of grinding, sanding, polishing, or finishing experience in manufacturing
Proficiency using hand tools, grinders, and measurement equipment
Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings
Experience with material handling equipment (cranes, hoists, or similar)
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality craftsmanship
Ability to work independently and within a team-based environment
Willingness to work overtime and flexible shifts
Preferred Skills
2+ years of finish grinding experience in heavy manufacturing or machining environments
Experience with gear finishing, polishing, or precision metal components
Knowledge of assembly processes and mechanical fitting techniques
Experience with crating, preserving, and securing large components
Exposure to machining or CNC environments
Call to Action
If you’re a skilled Finish Grinder or Metal Finishing Specialist who takes pride in precision craftsmanship, this is your opportunity to make a real impact in world-class manufacturing. At our South Milwaukee facility, you won’t just clean and finish parts — you will refine critical components that power some of the largest and most advanced mining machines in the world, including Cat® Electric Rope Shovels (ERS). The work demands attention to detail, hands-on expertise, and a commitment to quality, from grinding and polishing complex gear surfaces to ensuring every component meets strict specifications. Every edge you finish and every component you prepare plays a direct role in the performance, reliability, and durability of industry-leading equipment. Join a team where your finishing skills are valued, your workmanship is visible, and your contributions truly matter.
Apply today and help deliver the precision behind what the world depends on.
Summary Pay Range:
$22.17 - $23.09Compensation 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:
June 25, 2026 - August 2, 2026Any 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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