CNC Machinist Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
CNC machinists qualify for H-1B visa and other work visa sponsorship when the role requires specialized knowledge of computer programming, advanced manufacturing processes, or engineering principles. Many positions now demand bachelor's degrees in mechanical engineering, manufacturing technology, or related fields, making them eligible for professional visa categories. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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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.
CNC Machinist – Horizontal Milling Center – 2nd Shift
Location: South Milwaukee, WI
Shift: 2nd Shift (Full-Time)
Bonus: $2,000 Sign-On Bonus
Pay Progression:
- Step 1: $30.86/hr
- Step 2: $32.14/hr
- Step 3: $33.42/hr
- Shift Premium: +$1.00/hr for 2nd shift
Job Summary
The Large Boring Bar Machinist is responsible for setting up and operating CNC horizontal milling centers and large boring mills to machine precision components for heavy equipment manufacturing. This role supports the production of large structural weldments, castings, and forgings using advanced machining techniques and equipment. The ideal candidate thrives in a high-precision, safety-driven manufacturing environment and demonstrates strong technical machining skills, blueprint interpretation, and attention to detail.
Key Responsibilities
- Set up and operate CNC horizontal milling centers and boring bar machines for large-scale machining
- Machine large steel components including weldments, castings, forgings, and plates
- Interpret manufacturing work instructions, blueprints, and operation sequences
- Align parts using fixtures, shims, parallels, clamps, and workholding devices
- Select and assemble appropriate tooling including boring bars, drills, taps, reamers, and milling cutters
- Load, run, and verify CNC programs (G & M code) and conduct trial runs as needed
- Adjust machine parameters such as feeds, speeds, and offsets to maintain tolerances
- Perform precision machining operations (boring, facing, drilling, tapping, counterboring)
- Conduct in-process inspection using micrometers, calipers, and other precision instruments
- Edit CNC programs and make manual adjustments where required
- Operate jib cranes and overhead cranes for material handling
- Maintain a clean and safe work environment in alignment with safety standards
- Support continuous improvement, quality initiatives, and team collaboration
Required Skills
- 1–3+ years of hands-on CNC machining experience
- Experience with horizontal boring mills or large machining centers
- Ability to read blueprints and technical drawings
- Strong understanding of machine shop math (including basic trigonometry)
- Experience using precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges)
- Knowledge of G-code/M-code programming fundamentals
- Understanding of machining processes and terminology
- Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety and quality standards
Preferred Skills
- Experience machining large steel structures or heavy equipment components
- Familiarity with Fanuc and/or Siemens CNC controls
- Experience with tight tolerance machining on large parts
- Prior experience in heavy industrial or OEM manufacturing environments
- Crane operation or rigging experience
Call to Action
If you’re a skilled CNC machinist with experience in large-part machining, horizontal milling, or boring bar operations, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact in world-class manufacturing. At our South Milwaukee facility, you won’t just machine parts — you’ll help produce critical components that support some of the largest and most powerful mining machines in the world, including Cat® Electric Rope Shovels (ERS). The work is massive in scale and complexity, requiring precision, craftsmanship, and a commitment to quality at every step. From machining large steel weldments, castings, and forgings to working with advanced CNC equipment and precision tooling, your expertise will directly contribute to products that stand apart in the heavy equipment industry. Join a team where your machining skills matter, your work has visible impact, and your career can keep growing.
Apply today and help build what matters.
Summary Pay Range:
$29.67 - $37.09
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 3, 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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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding CNC Machinist Jobs
Target engineering-focused machinist roles
Look for positions emphasizing CAD/CAM programming, precision tooling design, or quality control systems. These requirements help establish the specialized knowledge needed for H-1B eligibility.
Highlight programming and technical skills
Emphasize experience with CNC programming languages, G-code optimization, and automated manufacturing systems. These technical competencies strengthen your case for professional visa classification.
Consider manufacturing engineers positions
Many companies hire manufacturing engineers who perform CNC work. This job title often has clearer degree requirements and stronger visa sponsorship precedents.
Focus on aerospace and medical device companies
These industries frequently require precision machining with strict tolerances and documentation. They're more likely to sponsor visas due to specialized skill requirements.
Demonstrate continuous learning credentials
Industry certifications like NIMS, additional CAD software training, or lean manufacturing credentials show professional development that supports specialty occupation arguments.
Research company LCA filing history
Check DOL disclosure data for employers who previously sponsored similar roles. Companies with machinist or manufacturing engineer LCAs are proven sponsors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do CNC machinists need a bachelor's degree for visa sponsorship?
Most successful visa cases require a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, manufacturing technology, or related field. However, the role must genuinely require this education level. Basic machinist positions typically don't qualify, but engineering-focused CNC roles often do. Some employers successfully argue that complex programming and precision work constitutes specialty occupation requirements.
Which visa types work best for CNC machinists?
H-1B visa is most common for roles requiring engineering knowledge or advanced programming skills. TN visa works for Canadian and Mexican citizens in engineering positions. EB-3 offers a permanent path but requires PERM labor certification. E-3 visa is available for Australians in qualifying specialty roles.
How to find CNC Machinist jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find CNC Machinist jobs with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting skilled tradespeople with sponsoring employers. Focus on manufacturing companies, aerospace firms, and automotive manufacturers that frequently sponsor H-1B, EB-3, or skilled worker visas for CNC professionals. These industries consistently need experienced machinists and are more likely to handle visa sponsorship processes.
What makes a CNC machinist role qualify as a specialty occupation?
Roles involving CAD/CAM programming, automated system integration, precision tooling design, or quality control engineering typically qualify. The position must require theoretical and practical application of specialized knowledge. Simple machine operation doesn't meet the standard, but complex programming and process optimization often does.
How competitive is H-1B approval for machinist positions?
Success depends heavily on job description and degree requirements. Engineering-focused machinist roles with clear bachelor's degree requirements have better approval rates than general machinist positions. USCIS scrutinizes whether the role truly requires specialized knowledge versus hands-on trade skills.
Can I use work experience instead of a degree for CNC machinist sponsorship?
The three-for-one rule allows three years of progressive experience to substitute for one year of education. For a bachelor's equivalent, you'd need twelve years of relevant CNC programming and engineering experience. However, this path faces higher scrutiny and works best with extensive documentation of technical progression.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored CNC Machinist jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.