Career Area:

Manufacturing

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 Manufacturing Engineer

Location: Decatur, IL
Travel: Up to 5%
Domestic Relocation: Available
Visa Sponsorship: Not available

About the Role

Join the Decatur Caterpillar team—one of the largest and most strategically important manufacturing operations in the company. As a CNC Manufacturing Engineer, you’ll be at the forefront of precision machining, automation, and lean transformation. This role offers the opportunity to drive innovation, optimize CNC machining processes, and collaborate across departments to deliver high-impact products that shape industries worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and optimize CNC programs using CAD/CAM software (PTC Creo, NX, AutoCAD)Program CNC machines with Siemens, Fanuc, Okuma P500 controlsCreate work instructions and conduct root cause analysis for production issuesImplement lean manufacturing principles to improve productivity and reduce wasteLead engineering support for equipment planning, development, and maintenanceMonitor equipment reliability and address problem areasCoach and develop operations technical staff and support teamsSupport new product introduction and continuous improvement initiatives

Preferred Background

Extensive experience CNC machining and programming rolesExtensive experience with metal cutting processes (turning, milling, gear generation)Strong understanding of CNC machine configurations, cutting tools, and fixturesProficiency in ISO programming language and G&M codingDemonstrated ability to apply lean manufacturing tools and methodologiesExperience conducting safety inspections and implementing OSHA-compliant procedures

Degree Requirement:

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or similar field (or equivalent experience)

Required Skills & Competencies

Decision Making & Critical Thinking: Extensive experience in evaluating options, predicting impact, and guiding others through informed decisions.Lean Manufacturing: Working knowledge of work cell design, transformation challenges, and lean assessment tools.Manufacturing Equipment & Processes: Hands-on experience with setup, diagnostics, and optimization of machinery.Safety & Compliance: Expertise in safety inspections, hazard identification, and regulatory compliance.Problem Management: Skilled in root cause analysis, escalation handling, and resolution tracking.

CNC Machining

Milling operations

Lathe setup and operation

Drilling processes

Tooling optimization

Machining diagnostics

Machine performance inspection

Manufacturing equipment maintenance

Cutting tool selection

Machining process improvement

Machine setup and testing

Machining safety

Summary Pay Range:

$95,640.00 - $143,520.00

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 5, 2025 - September 18, 2025

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.