Assembly Technician

Progress Rail, A Caterpillar Company; Muncie (IN); On-site; USD 30,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Salary

401(k) company match

Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability

Paid Vacation

Education Assistance Program

Job summary

Progress Rail, a Caterpillar Company, is seeking a Test Cell Technician in Muncie, IN to perform engine test functions on 3500 and C175 engines. You will harness, test, and assemble engines, collect data, analyze results, and report findings.

This role requires strong problem‑solving, attention to detail, and the ability to train others. Expect to work with test equipment, read blueprints, and follow strict safety and quality processes.

Qualifications

• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills to identify and resolve issues during testing.
• Attention to Detail: Ability to meticulously record data and identify potential errors or anomalies.
• Organizational Skills: Ability to manage time, prioritize tasks, and maintain organized records.
• Knowledge of Battery Chemistry: For roles involving testing of batteries (e.g., lithium‑ion).
• Experience with Test Equipment: Familiarity with specific test equipment used in the cell testing process.
• Strong PC/data entry skills; Proficient in Microsoft Excel/Word/PowerPoint.
• Proficient in reading prints with basic GD&T understanding;
• Experience in test specification reading and interpretation;
• Basic BOM and routing structure understanding;
• Ability to present to team members and other area leaders;
• Strong interpersonal/communication/prioritization skills;
• Willingness to work overtime and flexible work schedule;
• Specific site qualifications consult local team.

Responsibilities

• Test Execution: Conducts tests using various instruments following protocols.
• Data Collection: Accurately gathers and records test data and observations.
• Equipment Maintenance: Ensures test equipment is calibrated and maintained.
• Train others on assembly processes safely.
• Support multiple assembly areas as assigned.
• Read blueprints/job orders to determine product specs and tooling instructions.
• Follow reporting and recordkeeping procedures; report problems to supervisor.
• Detect and report defective materials or conditions to management.
• Create and maintain job aids and work instructions.
• Adhere to safety requirements and procedures.

Skills

Problem-Solving

Attention to Detail

Organizational Skills

Experience with Test Equipment

PC/Data Entry

MS Office (Excel/Word/PowerPoint)

Reading Prints & GD&T

Test Specification Reading

BOM & Routing Knowledge

Presentation to Team

Overtime & Flexibility

Education

Technical Degree

Tools

2D AutoCAD

Test Equipment

Job description

Job Purpose

Test Cell Technician is responsible for performing generator test functions on 3500 and C175 engines. Work includes harnessing, testing, and after test assembly of engines. This role involves operating equipment, gathering data, analyzing results, and reporting findings.

Req ID

11960BR

City

Muncie

State

Indiana

Company Description

Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation—driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world’s largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost-effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD® locomotives that ride them, the company’s products are in operation across more than 100 countries—powering progress and connecting communities. In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting‑edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail—they are making history every day.

Key Job Elements

• Test Execution: Conducting tests using various instruments and equipment, following established protocols.
• Data Collection and Recording: Accurately gathering and recording test data, including visual observations and instrumentation readings.
• Equipment Maintenance: Ensuring test equipment is calibrated, maintained, and in good working order.
• Perform all duties and responsibilities in compliance with PR safety policies;
• Document assembly processes and perform the tasks needed and monitor work to ensure compliance. This is to include defining and piloting technical assembly processes that include creating work instructions and selecting proper tooling;
• Train others on the proper assembly processes in a safe and efficient manner;
• Support multiple assembly areas simultaneously as assigned;
• Maintain specifications and make adjustments as needed by observing and performing assembly operations; taking measurements; detecting malfunctions; troubleshooting processes; adjusting and reprogramming tooling controls; replacing worn tools; adhering to quality assurance;
• Troubleshoot processes issues and perform routine and minor maintenance. Submit work orders for the maintenance requirements;
• Read blueprints or job orders to determine product specification and tooling instructions;
• Follow reporting and recordkeeping procedures, and report problems to supervisor, Works with Quality and Operations for problem solving initiatives;
• Detect and report defective materials or questionable conditions to management;
• Use precision gauges and instruments such as micrometers to determine and follow customers specifications;
• Create and maintains job aids & work instructions.
• Safety Compliance: Adhering to all safety requirements and procedures

Education / Training

• 5+ Years of Technical Assembly experience or Technical Degree;

Qualifications And Experience

• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills to identify and resolve issues during testing.
• Attention to Detail: Ability to meticulously record data and identify potential errors or anomalies.
• Organizational Skills: Ability to manage time, prioritize tasks, and maintain organized records.
• Knowledge of Battery Chemistry: For roles involving testing of batteries (e.g., lithium‑ion), a basic understanding of battery chemistry and performance characteristics is often required.
• Experience with Test Equipment: Familiarity with specific test equipment used in the cell testing process, such as battery testing equipment or engine test stands.
• Strong knowledge of PC/data entry;
• Intermediate level skills of Microsoft Office (Excel/Word/PowerPoint);
• Proficient in print reading with basic GD&T understanding;
• Experience in test specification reading and interpretation;
• Basic understanding of BOM and routing structure;
• Ability to comfortably present to team members and other area leaders;
• Strong interpersonal/communication/prioritization skills;
• Strong organizational skills;
• Experience training employees;
• Demonstrated ability to learn new applications/systems;
• Willingness to work overtime and flexible work schedule;
• Specific site qualifications and progression may apply, consult with local team.

Preferred Skills

• Proficient in troubleshooting machinery startup, mechanical, hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical systems;
• Proficient in reading and interpreting schematic drawings for mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems;
• Basic skills of 2D AutoCAD layouts.

Benefits

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 Progress Rail.

• Competitive Salary
• 401(k) plan with up to 6% company match (no waiting period with immediate vesting)
• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance
• Supplemental Accident, Critical Care, and Hospital Insurance available along with an HDHP and HSA with seed money
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Paid Vacation
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Time‑Off (PTO)
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Education Assistance Program
• Employee Recognition Programs
• Site specific Production and Incentive Plans
• Site specific Step and Skill Level Wage Adjustment Plans
• Site Specific Relocation and Sign‑on Bonus Programs
• Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full‑time/part‑time and regular/temporary status. The provisions of the plan documents control such benefits.
• Subject to position, eligibility, and plan guidelines. EEO Progress Rail is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.

Job Category

Production - Hourly

PRS Facility Location

Muncie, IN Locomotive - 293