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Quality Specialist- 2nd and 3rd Shift-East Peoria Bldg KK

Caterpillar · East Peoria, IL · $26.66–$28.50 an hour · Full time

Posted Sep 14, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about your past experience in operations. Have you done any inspection work?

What they are checking: Whether their operations background prepares them to inspect at BIQ quality gates.

This job is on 2nd or 3rd shift. How have you handled shift work in the past?

What they are checking: Reliability on off-hours shifts, which coverage at quality gates depends on.

Tell me about a time your work environment changed quickly. How did you adjust?

What they are checking: Comfort with frequently changing tasks, which the posting lists as a requirement.

What would you do

You find a defect at your quality gate. Walk me through what you do from that moment.

What they are checking: Whether they know to contain, document and communicate rather than just mark the part and move on.

The posting mentions Stop Capability. What would you do if you believed the line needed to stop?

What they are checking: Willingness to use the authority to stop production when quality requires it, even under pressure.

An operator gets upset when you reject their work. How do you handle that conversation?

What they are checking: Respectful, firm communication that keeps a good working relationship with the line.

How do you stay focused and accurate when you are inspecting the same features again and again?

What they are checking: Self-awareness about inspection fatigue and habits that keep attention sharp.

About the work

What precision measuring tools have you used, like calipers, micrometers or gauges? How do you make sure your reading is right?

What they are checking: Basic measurement skill and the habit of checking their own readings.

How do you write a defect description so someone else can understand exactly what the problem is?

What they are checking: Clear documentation, because poor defect records slow down problem solving.

How do you keep defective material from moving to the next operation?

What they are checking: Understanding of containment, tagging and segregation so bad parts never reach the customer.

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The full job description

As published by Caterpillar.

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. What you will do (including but not limited to): • Perform inspections at assigned BIQ quality gates using approved inspection methods, gauges, and checklists. • Identify, document, and communicate product defects and nonconformances • Contain defective material and prevent it from moving to the next operation or customer. • Accurately record defect information, inspection results, and defect descriptions in applicable quality systems. • Support BIQ processes including Stop Capability, Problem Description, Sorting, Feedback, and Problem Solving • Use precision measurement equipment and gauges to verify compliance with engineering specifications • Follow all safety procedures and maintain a safe work environment. Basic Qualifications: • Previous experience in Operations • Work in an environment with frequently changing temperatures • Walk, squat, and bend over for intervals at a time • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills • Strong commitment to safety and quality • Meticulous and analytical nature • Ability to work various shifts and flexible hours Top candidates will also have: • Ability to read engineering prints and specifications. • Knowledge of inspection methods and measurement techniques. • Experience using precision measuring equipment and quality inspection tools. • Strong attention to detail and documentation skills. • Ability to work independently and communicate effectively with manufacturing personnel. What You Will Get: Our goal at Caterpillar is for you to have a rewarding career. Our teams are critical to the success of our customers who build a better world. Here you earn more than just wage, because we value your performance, we offer a total rewards package that provides: • Competitive base salary- starting pay rate at $26.66, plus $1.00 night-shift premium • Medical, dental, and vision coverage • Paid time off plan (prorated based on start date) • 401k savings plan • Wellness programs Additional Information: • Positions are East Peoria- Building KK • There is no relocation offered for these positions • This position is subject to a 90-day probationary period during which the employee must successfully pass the 4Q61 test. Employees who successfully complete the test within the probationary period will be classified as a 4Q61. Failure to pass the test within the 90-day probationary period will result in termination of employment Salary Range - $26.66- $28.50 This employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as H, L, TN, F, J, E, O.  As a global company, Caterpillar offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S. which can be found through our employment website at www.caterpillar.com/careers #LI Summary Pay Range: $0.00 - $0.00 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 14, 2026 - November 10, 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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