transition from military to civilian life
rewarding opportunities with room for growth and advancement
At Hawthorne Cat, we value the drive, teamwork, and problem-solving mindset that service members bring. Whether you’ve turned wrenches on armored vehicles, kept shipboard power online, or led maintenance teams in the field, you’ll find a place to grow a meaningful career with us across San Diego County, Hawaii, Guam, and American Samoa.
Why Veterans Choose Hawthorne
- Clear career paths in construction, power systems, rental, marine, and parts & service
- Hands-on training through the Hawthorne Technician Apprenticeship Program (HTAP)
- Team culture that rewards safety, accountability, and mission focus
- Competitive benefits and advancement opportunities
Translate Your MOS to a Hawthorne Career
Technicians & Mechanics
- Heavy Equipment Technician (shop/field)
- Engine & Generator Technician (Power Systems / Rentals)
- Marine Engine Technician (harbors, shipyards, defense & government vessels)
Operations & Support
- Parts & Logistics, Service Coordinators
- Sales & Product Support
- Engineering, Safety, and Leadership roles
If you’re unsure where you fit, apply to any role and our recruiting team will guide you.
Life at Hawthorne
- Purposeful work: Keep critical equipment and power online for communities and customers.
- Growth: Structured training, manufacturer certifications, and clear progression ladders.
- Community: A tight-knit team known for service and support.
Training & Onboarding
- Hawthorne Technician Apprenticeship Program (HTAP): Earn while you learn Cat® diagnostics, maintenance systems, and advanced tools—with mentorship, structured coursework, and on-the-job training.
- Veteran-Friendly Hiring: We actively welcome veteran applicants across our regions and partner with veteran job boards. Our team understands how to read your training records and translate your experience to our roles.
How to Apply
1
Browse Current Job Openings.
2
Apply Online. Submit your resume and select ‘Veteran’ where applicable.
3
Talk with our recruiter. We’ll recommend the best fit for you.
For Transitioning Service Members
SkillBridge & Fellowship Interest
*The Department of Defense and the Department of the Navy do not endorse any company, sponsor, or their products or services. Participation by a company in the SkillBridge program does not constitute DoD or Service endorsement.”
**Hawthorne Cat is an approved Department of Defense SkillBridge Partner. The appearance of DoD visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement. The Department of Defense does not endorse any non-Federal entity, event, product, or service.”
If you’re within 180 days of separation and exploring DoD SkillBridge or similar fellowships, tell us in your application notes so we can discuss available pathways in our shops and power systems teams. (Program availability may vary by location and timeline.)
Have questions or want to connect with a member of our veteran team?
Prefer to talk with someone who’s worn the uniform? Let us know in your application — we’ll connect you with a Hawthorne veteran.
Hawthorne Machinery Co. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We welcome veterans and applicants from all backgrounds.