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.
AMEP (Advanced Manufacturing Education Program) - Early Career
Location: Lafayette, Indiana
Multiple Positions Available – 1st Shift Opportunities
$20.94/hr -Starting pay, and upon completion of the program, the possibility to move to a level 3 assembler at $23.33/hr
Program begins August 2026
Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance, Incentives/Bonus Opportunities, Matching 401k
www.caterpillar.com/careers : Apply online and create a candidate account.
CATERPILLAR - BUILD WHAT MATTERS
What matters most to you? Is it being part of a strong team? Supporting your family? Solving global problems? You can do these and more at Caterpillar; where your work enables progress around the globe, and you contribute to meaningful work. Together, we can build what matters!
Caterpillar is looking for early career candidates who are looking to start a career in manufacturing.
If you are 18 years of age or older, and have successfully completed a GED, Highschool Diploma or similar within the last 12 months, our early career Advanced Manufacturing Certification Program may just be what you are looking for!
This program is intended for early career candidates with little experience within the industry and requires the ability to complete both on the job training and course work at Ivy Tech community college.
AMEP (Advanced Mfg. Education Program) – Candidates needed at The Large Power Systems Division located in Lafayette, IN.
PROGRAM STARTS August 2026, In partnership with Ivy Tech, the program includes the following:
PAID (up to 18-months) training at IVY Tech where students earn an “Industrial Workforce Certificate”
$20.94/hour during coursework and on the job training
Hands on experience building large diesel and natural gas engines
Opportunity to interview for a Level 3 Technician opening upon successful completion of the program. (Raise to $22.65/hour)
On the job training will have candidates starting in light assembly work, which may include various sub-assembly, paint prep, and light assembly type jobs. The jobs will progressively get more complex as candidates advance through the program, placing them in positions directly associated with prime product engine assembly, testing, painting and shipping of Caterpillar product.
Job Duties/Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
Successful completion of OJT (On Job Training):
OJT & Assembly of large diesel and natural gas engines including the use of hand tool, pneumatic tools, gauges and measuring devices, specialized torque equipment, electrical testing equipment, fork trucks, lifting devices/cranes
The ability to manipulate engine components during the assembly process.
The ability to learn the technical aspects of engine assembly, including troubleshooting and repair of in process engines.
Successful Completion of Certification courses at Ivy Tech (paid for by Caterpillar)
Candidates will earn an Interdisciplinary Industrial Workforce Certificate through Ivy Tech Community College (up to 18-months)
Completion of 18 credit hours in the following course work in Electrical, Engine performance, Engine Repair and Diesel engine Performance.
Candidates will earn an Interdisciplinary Industrial Workforce Certificate through Ivy Tech Community College upon completion of these courses.
Completion of 18 credit hours in the following course work
AUTI 111: Electrical Systems I
AUTI 112: Electrical Systems II
AUTI 131: Engine Performance Systems I
AUTI 141: Engine Fundamentals and Repair
AUTI 161: Light Duty Diesel Engine Performance
AUTI 162: Light Duty Diesel Engine Emissions
Basic Qualifications:
Candidates must be 18 years of age or older by the start of the program in August 2026.
Successful completion of a GED, Highschool Diploma or similar within the last 12 months.
Must complete and pass CAT Basic Assembly Training
Possess an excellent attendance record
Ability and willingness to work overtime when needed.
Flexible, self-directed individual with a strong sense of teamwork and good communication skills.
Applicant must have a desire to work in a manufacturing environment and ability to learn and assimilate assembly and quality best practices.
Excellent communication skills
Must be able to lift and manipulate engine components during the assembly process
Must be able to use hand and pneumatic tools as well as automatic torque equipment
Top Candidates Will Also Have:
Experience as an Automotive Mechanic or previous enrolment in a High School Shop class / Vocational Program
Previous job-related /experience in auto/diesel/farm or construction maintenance and repair
Ability to interpret assembly drawings / prints and work instructions
Previous Engine Assembly or Mechanical Experience
Engine Assembly / Disassembly / Rebuild / Repair, changing oil on vehicles or equipment
Some electrical and/or mechanical background.
Physical Requirements:
Candidates for all positions must have the ability to work in a fast pace, medium to heavy duty assembly, technical environment.
Work may involve frequent bending, stooping, and kneeling, twisting, turning, climbing, and standing on concrete for 8+ hours.
All positions also require the ability to lift 40 pounds and withstand frequent repetitive movement of hands with a variety of tooling.
Some positions require the ability to perform tasks on a moving conveyor under time constraints
Additional Information:
Location of this position is in Lafayette, IN
Relocation assistance is not available for this position. Any relocation costs incurred would be the responsibility of the selected applicant.
AMEP program is during 1st Shift, other shifts may be offered upon completion of the program
104 hours of paid Personal Time Off (PTO) - (Prorated based upon start date)
11 Paid holidays
Climate controlled work environment – most areas
Clean/safe work environment
Please attach an updated resume
Program available starting August 2026
Please ensure you frequently check the e-mail account you provided on your application, including the junk/spam folder, as this is the primary correspondence method in our recruiting process.
Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.
#LI
Summary Pay Range:
$16.75 - $21.35
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:
March 24, 2026 - June 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.
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