Machine Operator - 2nd/3rd Shifts - Sign-On Bonus

Caterpillar Inc.; Pontiac (IL); On-site; USD 30,000 - 43,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision benefits

401(k) savings plan

HSA

FSAs

Wellness programs

Employee Assistance Program

Career development

Incentive bonus

Disability benefits

Life Insurance

Parental leave

Adoption benefits

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Caterpillar Inc. in Pontiac is seeking a Machine Operator to set up and operate automatic lathes and CNC drilling/boring machines. You will follow blueprints, apply safe work practices, and ensure parts meet geometric tolerances.

This role emphasizes teamwork, strong communication, and adherence to 5S/TPM principles. Shifts include 2nd and 3rd with competitive hourly pay and a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Minimum 12 months experience in manufacturing, engine maintenance, or machining.
• Ability to follow written instructions (schematics, standard work, blueprints).
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Commitment to safety and teamwork.
• Awareness of 5S and TPM practices.

Responsibilities

• Operate vertical, horizontal, and multi-axis turret lathes.
• Adjust single spindle automatic cutoff machines.
• Read and interpret blueprints and geometric tolerances.
• Apply safe working methods and follow written instructions.

Skills

Manufacturing experience

Blueprint reading

Safety mindset

Teamwork

Job description

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.

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.

About Large Power Systems Division (LPSD)

We design and manufacture the most comprehensive lineup of large diesel and natural gas engines in the industry, as well as engine components and powertrains.

Role Definition

As a Machine Operator at Caterpillar Pontiac, you will operate, set up and adjust automatic lathes or numerically controlled drilling and boring machines to perform various combinations of machining operations on miscellaneous parts. Complex or limited combinations will be performed.

What You Will Do (including But Not Limited To)

• Manually operate vertical, horizontal, and multi-axis turret lathes.
• Adjust single spindle automatic cutoff machines.
• Advanced blueprint reading.
• Geometric tolerances.
• Applying safe working methods.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions (ex. schematics, standard work, and/or blueprints).

Minimum Requirements

• A minimum of 12 months experience working in a manufacturing, engine maintenance, or machining role.
• Ability to follow written instructions (ex. schematics, standard work, and/or blueprints).
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Strong commitment to safety and teamwork.
• Awareness of Sort, Set, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain (5S) and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM).

What You Will Get

Safety in words and actions. Safety is a core value at Caterpillar. We encourage and commit to safety in all processes that we do. We strive to provide a safe and secure work environment for all our employees.

A Rewarding Career. Our Teams Are Critical To The Success Of Our Customers Who Build a Better World. Here You Earn More Than Just Wage. Because We Value Your Performance, We Offer a Total Rewards Package That Provides

• Competitive base pay – pay starting at $26.66 an hour
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid time off plan
• 401k savings plan
• Wellness programs

Additional Information

• 2nd shift: Monday - Friday 3:00PM - 11:00PM.
• 3rd shift: Sunday - Thursday 11:00PM - 7:00AM.
• Starting pay is $26.66 per hour.
• $1.00 an hour night shift premium.
• Sign-On Bonus: up to $2000
• Training completed on 1st shift hours Monday - Friday.
• Relocation assistance is not available.
• Please frequently check the email associated with your application, including the junk/spam folder, as this is the primary correspondence method. If you wish to know the status of your application – please use the candidate log-in on our career website as it will reflect any updates to your status.

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

September 14, 2026 - October 18, 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.