CNC Machinist Systems Operator - Decatur, IL

Caterpillar; Decatur (IL); On-site; USD 43,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision coverage

401(k) with company match

Paid holidays and vacation

Job summary

Caterpillar in Decatur, IL is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Systems Operator to set up and run a computer-controlled manufacturing system. You will manage CNC tools, verify programs, troubleshoot issues, and ensure parts meet quality standards.

The role requires 5+ years of CNC experience, blueprint/GD&T literacy, and strong measurement skills. Expect rotating shifts with strong teamwork and safety emphasis.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on CNC machining experience including setup and operation of multiple tools.
• Ability to read blueprints, GD&T and technical drawings.
• Experience with precision measuring instruments and inspection methods.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate and adjust CNC tools in an integrated manufacturing system.
• Monitor supervisory controls and respond to alarms to minimize downtime.
• Load/unload parts, verify programs, edit offsets and ensure tight tolerances.
• Inspect parts with precision instruments and read blueprints/GD&T
• Train less experienced machinists and support safety procedures.

Skills

CNC machining

Read blueprints

GD&T interpretation

Precision measurement

Troubleshooting CNC

System integration

Education

Machinist apprenticeship

Trade school cert

Tools

Siemens controls

G-code/M-code editing

Tool life management

Job description

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

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 - $0.00

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: November 5, 2026 - November 29, 2026

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.

There’s more to work at Caterpillar than just the work itself. We hire smart, friendly people and it shows in our culture. We hold ourselves to high standards and make sure our values of integrity, excellence, teamwork, commitment and sustainability come to life in the way we work. We make sure our employees feel continuously challenged while also supported. We provide professional growth opportunities, including leadership programs. We celebrate the diversity of our team, while also working together as one Caterpillar. Our culture, like everything at our company, is made possible by each employee’s contribution. Person by person, we create the environment we work in, and we are proud of the Caterpillar we’ve built.