CNC Machinist Systems Operator - Decatur, IL

Caterpillar Inc.; Decatur (IL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 51,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision benefits

401(k) with company match

Paid holidays and vacation

Tuition assistance

Job summary

Caterpillar is hiring a Manufacturing Systems Operator in Decatur, IL. You will set up, operate, and adjust a computer-controlled manufacturing system, overseeing multiple CNC tools within an integrated cell.

Your role includes program loading, tool data management, and rigorous quality checks to meet tight tolerances. Experience with Siemens controls, high-mix production, and collaboration across maintenance, engineering and quality is essential.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on CNC machining experience.
• Ability to read blueprints, GD&T and drawings.
• Skilled with precision measuring instruments.
• Strong CNC troubleshooting skills.
• Experience with integrated tool management & high-mix part production.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate and adjust multiple CNC tools inside an integrated system.
• Monitor supervisory controls and respond to alarms or interruptions.
• Load/unload components with automated storage and retrieval systems.
• Load and verify programs and fixtures; complete first-piece setups across many parts.
• Edit programs, offsets and tool data to maintain tolerances and cycle times.
• Troubleshoot machine, tooling, fixture and control issues to minimize downtime.
• Manage tool life and tool data within the system.
• Read blueprints and GD&T; ensure conformance.
• Collaborate with maintenance, engineering and quality on root-cause analysis and improvements.
• Train and mentor less experienced machinists in the cell.
• Follow safety procedures and maintain a zero-incident workplace.

Skills

CNC machining

Blueprints & GD&T

Troubleshooting

Quality inspection

Education

Machinist apprenticeship

Tools

Siemens controls

Pallet systems

Tool management systems

Job description

## CNC Machinist Systems Operator - Decatur, ILApply: Decatur, Illinois: Full time: Posted Today: R0000404023**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.**Title:** Manufacturing Systems Operator (5M92)**Career Area:** Manufacturing**Location:** Decatur Facility, Decatur, IL**Shift:** 2nd / 3rd Shift**Pay:** $31.37/hr + $1/hr Off Shift Premium **Job Summary**As a Manufacturing Systems Operator at Caterpillar, you will set up, operate and adjust all machines and equipment in a computer-controlled manufacturing system. The system uses supervisory controls that connect all machine and programmable controllers, and it handles scheduling, status reporting, and tracking of material and tools in process. You will keep the system running continuously and make sure parts meet production and quality standards.This role supports a highly integrated, high-complexity manufacturing system, and is suited for experienced operators and machinists who can run the whole system, not just a single machine. **What You Will Do*** Set up, operate and adjust multiple CNC machine tools inside an integrated, computer-controlled manufacturing system* Monitor the system’s supervisory controls (scheduling, part and tool tracking, status reporting) and respond to alarms and interruptions* Load and unload components into storage and retrieval systems integrated with machining systems* Load and verify programs and fixtures, and complete first-piece setups across many unique part numbers* Edit programs, offsets and tool data to hold close tolerances and keep cycle times on target* Troubleshoot machine, tooling, fixture and control issues to keep downtime low* Manage tool life, tool changes and tool data within the system* Inspect parts with precision measuring instruments and correct the process so parts stay in conformance* Read and interpret blueprints, GD&T and work instructions* Work with maintenance, engineering and quality on root cause and process improvements* Train and support less experienced machinists in the cell* Follow all safety procedures and support a zero-incident workplace **What You Will Have** **Required:*** 5+ years of hands-on CNC machining experience, including setting up and operating multiple machine tools* Able to read blueprints, GD&T and technical drawings* Skilled with precision measuring instruments and inspection methods* Strong troubleshooting skills on CNC equipment* Experience with the following: + Integrated tool management systems (tool life, tool data and tool tracking at the cell or system level) + Producing a high mix of unique part numbers (4 to 7+) + Machining complex, close-tolerance parts + Working in a system that combines multiple disciplines (for example machining, heat treat or welding) **Preferred:*** Experience in an FMS or automated multi-machine cell* CNC program editing experience (G-code / M-code) on Siemens Control Type* Completed machinist apprenticeship, trade school or technical certificate* Experience with horizontal machining centers, pallet systems and tool management systems* Experience machining large or complex castings and weldments* Computer-controlled material handling - robotic or automated pallet / part transfer**Additional Requirements:*** Able to wear required PPE* Able to work overtime, weekends and rotating shifts as needed **What You Will Get*** Competitive pay with scheduled increases [per contract]* Medical, dental and vision coverage [confirm start date]* 401(k) with company match* Paid holidays and vacation* Tuition assistance and ongoing training Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.### ### **Summary Pay Range:**$0.00 - $0.00Compensation 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:**November 5, 2026 - November 29, 2026Any 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.