Engineer I

Progress Rail, A Caterpillar Company; Winston-Salem (NC); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Salary

401(k) plan with company match

Health/Dental/Vision Insurance

Education Assistance Program

Paid Vacation

Job summary

Progress Rail, a Caterpillar company, is seeking a CNC Programmer to develop and optimize machine instructions for mills, lathes, and 5-axis equipment in Winston-Salem. You will translate engineering drawings into precise G-code, create setup sheets, and support process improvements across manufacturing lines.

The role requires strong CAD/CAM experience, GD&T proficiency, and the ability to collaborate with operators and engineers to ensure parts meet specifications and production targets.

Qualifications

• Strong CNC programming knowledge and ability to translate engineering prints into machine instructions.
• Experience with CAD/CAM software and GD&T standards.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.

Responsibilities

• Create CNC programs (G-code) for mills, lathes, and 5-axis machines.
• Develop setup sheets and programming documentation.
• Assist in machine setup, fixture setup and process improvements.
• Support training and continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

CNC programming

CAD/CAM

GD&T

Reading drawings

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Teamwork

MS Office

Education

4 year technical degree or equivalent manufacturing experience

Tools

Siemens NX

Mastercam

SolidWorks

Teamcenter NX/PLM

Job description

Job Purpose

This position is 1st shift and will have responsibility for CNC programming functions on various machining lines within the Winston Salem facility.

Req ID

12394BR

Job Purpose

This position is 1st shift and will have responsibility for CNC programming functions on various machining lines within the Winston Salem facility.

Req ID

12394BR

Work Location Options

North Carolina

City

Winston Salem

State:

North Carolina

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

• Creating CNC programs (G-code) for machines like mills, lathes, 5-axis)
• Understanding engineering prints and technical specifications to translate them into machine instructions.
• Choosing appropriate cutting tools and optimizing their use
• Assist with machine setup, fixture setup and ensuring proper operation
• Troubleshooting failures and resolving issues related to CNC programs or machine operation
• Verifying parts meet specifications and collaborating with operators to make adjustment
• Creating and maintaining setup sheets, programming documentation, and other related materials
• Create job aids and work instructions
• Develop and support rework processes/procedures
• Assist in training and effective utilization of work force.
• Manage complex projects
• Process Engineering Changes
• LN/IPREP ERP system use
• Validate/support all quality gate audits
• Determine processing needs to assure fixtures, tooling and methods are provided to meet schedules and production requirements.
• Works to improve processes and reduce costs by eliminating non-value add activities.
• Implement various corporate initiatives such as 5S, Lean Manufacturing, Internal Certification, etc.
• Monitor and improve safety on the shop floor; eliminate unsafe operations and ensure a safe and clean production environment.
• Evaluate, assess, and identify training needs of the workforce.
• Drives Root Cause identification and Continuous Improvement process

Education / Training

• 4 year technical degree or equivalent manufacturing experience
• Minimum 5 years manufacturing industry experience

Qualifications And Experience

• Strong understanding of CNC programming principles and CAD/CAM software (e.g., Siemens NX, Mastercam, SolidWorks).
• Team Center Mfg. /PLM/ NX experience a plus
• Knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T)
• Experience with different types of CNC machines (mills, lathes, 5-axis).
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and prints.
• Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Attention to detail and precision
• Strong knowledge of PC/data entry
• Intermediate level skills of Microsoft Office (Excel/Word/PowerPoint)
• Ability to comfortably present to team members and other leaders
• Strong interpersonal/communication/prioritization skills is a must
• Strong organizational skills

Working Conditions:

• Must also be able to perform the following for the duration of shift:
• Heavy manufacturing environment, subjecting employees to noise, vibration, and chemical elements.
• Will be working near moving mechanical parts, overhead cranes and lift truck traffic.
• Regularly required to stand and use hands to handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls & reach with hands and arms.
• Occasional lifting objects up to 35 lbs.
• Periodically walking short and long distances
• Metatarsal safety shoes are required as well as safety glasses.

Benefits

• 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

Engineering

PRS Facility Location

Winston Salem, NC - 329