Caterpillar, Inc

Production Manager

Caterpillar, Inc • $97K — $146K *
Decatur, IL 62521In-Person
Manufacturing & Automotive
Less than 5 years of experience
Reposted Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience preferred.
  • 5+ years of experience in manufacturing roles, with proven leadership in production management.
  • Strong problem-solving skills using fact-finding and diagnostic approaches.
  • Proficient in data gathering and analytical techniques for performance improvements.
  • Effective communicator, able to provide clear feedback and expectations.
  • Experience with Lean Manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies is a plus.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and coordinate daily operations of a complex production line.
  • Prepare and maintain accurate production reports and performance evaluations.
  • Supervise and direct production teams, ensuring high safety and quality standards.
  • Train and onboard new employees, managing scheduling and work conflicts.
  • Troubleshoot operational issues using structured problem-solving methods.
  • Communicate effectively across the organization to support production goals.
  • Continuously develop and improve operational documentation and procedures.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
  • Paid time off plan including vacation, holidays, and volunteer time.
  • 401(k) savings plan with company match.
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) for eligible expenses.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for dependent care and medical expenses.
  • Employee Assistance Program for mental health and support.
  • Career development opportunities, including tuition reimbursement.
  • Incentive bonuses aligned with performance goals and contributions.
Full Job Description
Career Area:
Manufacturing

Job Description:

Production Manager

Location: Decatur, IL

Relocation Assistance: Offered

Visa Sponsorship: Not offered

Travel: Up to 5%

Work Arrangement: On-site

Job Summary

As 1st shift Production Manager in Decatur, Illinois, you will oversee and coordinate a complex production line, ensuring safe, high-quality, on-time manufacturing. You'll lead daily execution by preparing schedules, resolving production issues, and reinforcing operating procedures and standards, while developing teams and strengthening a culture of continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and coordinate day-to-day execution for a complex production line, aligning staffing, materials flow, and priorities to meet safety, quality, and delivery commitments.
  • Create and maintain production reports and records (process performance, tooling issues, inventory) and provide actionable recommendations to improve safety, productivity, and quality.
  • Prepare, maintain, and improve standard operating documentation, ensuring processes and products meet defined safety and quality standards.
  • Supervise and direct production teams: assign work, coordinate across teams, monitor performance, remove barriers, and ensure a safe work environment.
  • Train and onboard new team members; manage scheduling and resolve work conflicts to maintain stable, efficient shift execution.
  • Troubleshoot operational issues with a structured approach; identify root causes, evaluate options, and implement effective countermeasures.
  • Communicate clearly up, down, and across the organization to sustain alignment, accountability, and consistent production results.


Required Skills
  • Problem Solving: Ability to identify problems, assess alternatives, and drive practical resolutions using fact-finding and diagnostic tools.
  • Data Gathering & Analysis: Ability to collect, synthesize, and document data from multiple sources to support decisions and performance improvements.
  • Performance Management: Ability to set expectations, provide objective feedback, develop talent, and contribute to a strong performance culture.
  • Analytical Thinking: Ability to define issues, compare solution options, recognize patterns, and apply structured analysis tools.
  • Decision Making & Critical Thinking: Ability to organize relevant inputs, clarify priorities, and assess risks/benefits to make sound decisions.
  • Planning & Organizing: Ability to build action plans, manage competing priorities, and keep production on track with disciplined execution.
  • Effective Communications: Ability to communicate clearly and constructively with teams and stakeholders; deliver feedback and share expectations.
  • Accuracy & Attention to Detail: Ability to ensure precise documentation, reliable reporting, and mistake-proof execution where required.
  • Education: bachelor's degree or equivalent experience desired.


Preferred Skills
  • Experience leading production in a complex manufacturing environment, including multi-team coordination and shift leadership.
  • Knowledge and practical application of Lean Manufacturing continuous improvement principles.
  • Familiarity with Six Sigma methods and data-driven problem solving.


Summary Pay Range:

$97,530.00 - $146,290.00

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

This position requires working onsite five days a week.

Relocation is available for this position.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates:
July 6, 2026 - July 19, 2026

Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.

Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

About Caterpillar, Inc

Progress Rail Services Corporation, a Caterpillar company, is one of the largest integrated and diversified suppliers of railroad and transit system products and services worldwide. Since its acquisition by Caterpillar Inc. in 2006, Progress Rail has used the Caterpillar international footprint to gain quick and widespread notice and approval across the globe. Product technology, reliability and durability, along with legendary aftermarket parts and service support, have been their keys to success. Caterpillar is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines. The technology and world reach of Caterpillar, combined with the service standard and historical reliability of Progress Rail, ensures their products and services make a growing impact on the world rail industry. With their acquisition of Electro-Motive Diesel (EMD), Progress Rail is the world's largest builder of diesel-electric locomotives for all commercial railroad applications including freight, intercity passenger, commuter, switching, industrial and mining. EMD is also a global provider of diesel power engines for marine propulsion, offshore and land based oil well drilling rigs and stationary power generation. Electro-Motive is the only diesel engine manufacturer of its size to have produced more than 70,000 engines. This success stems from product reliability, serviceability, load acceptance capability, low operating costs and ease of maintenance with standardized components.

Caterpillar, Inc. Careers

Join the robust team at Caterpillar, Inc., a global leader in construction and mining equipment, where innovation drives everything we do. As part of our team, you'll engage in work that improves the world and furthers your career with every project you touch.

Work You’ll Do

At Caterpillar, Inc., you will have the opportunity to contribute to a variety of groundbreaking projects that extend across the globe. Our commitment to leadership in the industry is unwavering, and we achieve it through a culture that fosters diversity and leadership development.

Explore Job Opportunities and Growth

Caterpillar offers a wide range of job opportunities and career paths, providing a platform for professional growth and development. Whether you're interested in engineering, sales, marketing, or management, Caterpillar has a position that will utilize your unique skills and talents. We are continuously hiring innovative minds to propel our mission forward and maintain our status as industry leaders.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with a Caterpillar internship. Our internships provide invaluable workplace experience and networking opportunities that often lead to full-time employment at our company. As an intern, you will work alongside experienced professionals and gain insights that will benefit you as you advance in your career.

Benefits and Culture

Choosing a career at Caterpillar means more than just having a job. It means you're part of a team that values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We offer competitive benefits to ensure the health and well-being of our employees and their families. These benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, alongside unique perks like professional development and diversity training programs.

Innovation and Leadership

Drive innovation and industry leadership as part of the Caterpillar team. We empower our employees to lead from their first day on the job, encouraging continuous improvement and career advancement. At Caterpillar, your ideas will shape the future of our business and the industries we serve.

Join Our Team

Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Ready to start your journey at Caterpillar, Inc.? Explore our career portal for the latest job opportunities.

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Keep up to date with company news, career tips, and industry insights—all from the people who work here. Subscribe to our careers blog and personalize your subscription to receive updates that align with your career interests.

Prepare for Your Interview

Make a great first impression. Prepare for your interview at Caterpillar by reviewing common questions and practicing your responses. Tailor your resume to highlight the experiences and skills that make you the ideal candidate for the position you are applying for. At Caterpillar, Inc., every role offers the chance to make an impact. Come be a part of our team and drive the future of our global industries. Your career at Caterpillar is not just about what you'll accomplish, but how you'll grow and the innovation you'll lead. Join us and build a career that matters.
Learn more about Caterpillar, Inc
Size
107,700 employees
Market Cap
$125.3 billion
Industry
Manufacturing & Automotive
Net Income
$2.9 billion
Founded
1925
5 Year Trend
+5.8%
Revenue
$41.7 billion
NASDAQ
CAT
* Ladders Estimates

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