Machine Shop Quality Inspector
Role Overview
At Caterpillar, we're building a better, more sustainable world, and quality is at the center of everything we do. We are seeking a Quality Inspector to join our South Milwaukee manufacturing operation on 3rd Shift .
This position is responsible for performing machine shop and assembly inspections to ensure products meet engineering specifications, customer requirements, and Caterpillar's industry-leading quality standards.
In addition to inspection responsibilities, this role actively participates in continuous improvement initiatives, supports data collection and analysis efforts, and contributes to complex problem-solving projects that improve manufacturing performance.
The ideal candidate brings strong measurement and blueprint-reading skills, a passion for quality, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Key Skills for This Role
Full Job Posting
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.
Location
- South Milwaukee, WI
- Shift: 3rd Shift
- Sign-On & Retention Bonus: Up to $2,000
Pay Progression
Step 1: 26.89
Step 2: 28.01
Step 3: 29.14
Shift Premium (if applicable): +$1.00/hour for 3rd Shift
Job Summary
At Caterpillar, we're building a better, more sustainable world, and quality is at the center of everything we do. We are seeking a Quality Inspector to join our South Milwaukee manufacturing operation on 3rd Shift .
This position is responsible for performing machine shop and assembly inspections to ensure products meet engineering specifications, customer requirements, and Caterpillar's industry-leading quality standards.
In addition to inspection responsibilities, this role actively participates in continuous improvement initiatives, supports data collection and analysis efforts, and contributes to complex problem-solving projects that improve manufacturing performance.
The ideal candidate brings strong measurement and blueprint-reading skills, a passion for quality, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform machine shop, assembly, and final inspections to verify products meet engineering and quality standards.
- Use precision measuring tools including micrometers, calipers, verniers, and depth gauges.
- Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and inspection standards.
- Collect and analyze quality data to support continuous improvement initiatives.
- Participate in root cause investigations, problem-solving projects, and process improvement activities.
- Assist engineers with process capability studies and quality validation efforts.
- Accurately document inspection results, non-conformances, and corrective actions.
- Collaborate with manufacturing, engineering, and quality teams to improve product quality and operational performance.
Required Qualifications
- Experience in manufacturing quality inspection, machining inspection, or assembly inspection.
- Proficient using precision measurement equipment, including micrometers, calipers, verniers, and depth gauges.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, specifications, and engineering drawings.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office applications.
- Strong communication, problem-solving, and attention-to-detail skills.
- Ability to work in confined spaces and at heights up to 15 feet.
Preferred Qualifications
- Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) experience.
- Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) experience or certification.
- SAP experience.
- Experience supporting continuous improvement or quality projects.
- Knowledge of process capability studies, SPC, or manufacturing quality systems.
- Heavy manufacturing, machining, or industrial assembly experience.
How to Apply
- Ready to help shape the future of welded manufacturing at Caterpillar? Apply today and become part of a team that builds the equipment powering industries around the world.
- Note: Please check your email (including spam/junk folders) regularly for updates throughout the hiring process.
Summary Pay Range
- 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 .
About Caterpillar
Global manufacturer of construction and mining equipment and engines.
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