First-Shift Production Leader — Lean, Safety & Growth

Caterpillar Inc.; Waco (TX); On-site; USD 89,000 - 134,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision benefits

Paid time off

401(k) savings plans

Health Savings Account (HSA)

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Career Development

Incentive bonus

Parental leave

Tuition Reimbursement

Job summary

Caterpillar Inc. is seeking a 1st Shift Production Manager in the United States (Waco, TX) to lead manufacturing operations, improve processes, and ensure adherence to Caterpillar quality policies.

You will supervise hourly staff, coordinate with management, and drive safety, efficiency, and cost reductions on the shop floor. The role requires strong leadership, safety focus, and ability to implement corporate initiatives like Lean Manufacturing and 6 Sigma.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; 1–3 years of experience preferred.
• Alternative: 5+ years of job-related experience in lieu of a degree.
• 3–4 years of shop floor experience and mechanical aptitude.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office products.
• Willingness to work overtime and alternate shifts.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and improve shop floor safety and maintain a clean production environment.
• Determine processing needs to meet schedules and production requirements.
• Plan workload and priorities with production management to optimize output.
• Oversee overtime decisions and resource prioritization.
• Implement Lean, 5S, CQMS/ISO initiatives and cost-reduction measures.
• Ensure quality and timely ordering/distribution of parts and materials.
• Lead training and development of staff and supervise hourly employees.

Skills

Performance Management

Decision Making

Effective Communications

Problem Solving

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Caterpillar Inc. is seeking a 1st Shift Production Manager in the United States (Waco, TX) to lead manufacturing operations, improve processes, and ensure adherence to Caterpillar quality policies.

You will supervise hourly staff, coordinate with management, and drive safety, efficiency, and cost reductions on the shop floor. The role requires strong leadership, safety focus, and ability to implement corporate initiatives like Lean Manufacturing and 6 Sigma.