Production Assembler - Decatur, IL (2nd Shift)

Caterpillar; Decatur (IL); On-site; USD 23,185 - 33,021; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision benefits

Paid time off plan

401(k) savings plan

Health Savings Account

Flexible Spending Accounts

Health Lifestyle Programs

Employee Assistance Program

Career Development

Incentive bonus

Tuition Reimbursement

Job summary

Caterpillar is seeking a Production Assembler for the 2nd shift in Decatur, IL. In this full-time role, you will work hands-on to assemble and test heavy machinery components in a dynamic, safety-centric environment. Basic qualifications include a mechanical background and effective communication skills. The position offers competitive pay starting at $20.40/hour, benefits from day one, including healthcare and 401(k), and automatic wage increases. Join Caterpillar and contribute to building a better world.

Qualifications

• Must have a mechanical background or experience in industrial assembly.
• Strong commitment to safety and teamwork is essential.
• Comfortable working at heights up to 20 feet.

Responsibilities

• Assemble, test, rework, and repair heavy machinery components.
• Operate test machines and remote-controlled cranes.
• Disassemble and reassemble complex assemblies.

Skills

Mechanical background or experience in industrial assembly

Strong communication skills

Comfortable working at heights

Ability to use hand tools and pneumatic tools

Basic computer skills for data entry

Tools

Hand tools

Pneumatic tools

Forklift certification

Overhead crane operation experience

Job description

Career Area: Operations

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.

Production Assembler – Caterpillar Decatur, IL (2nd Shift)

Location: Decatur, Illinois | Shift: 2nd Shift (3:00 PM – 11:00 PM)

Pay: Starting at $20.40/hour + $1.00/hour shift premium

Job Type: Full-Time, Supplemental

Industry: Manufacturing, Heavy Equipment, Industrial Assembly

Job Summary

Caterpillar is hiring Production Assemblers for our 2nd shift team at the Decatur, IL facility. As a vital part of our manufacturing operations, you will assemble, test, and prepare heavy equipment components for shipment. This hands‑on role is ideal for mechanically inclined individuals who thrive in a fast‑paced, safety‑focused environment. Join a global leader in heavy equipment manufacturing and help build the machines that move the world.

Key Responsibilities

• Assemble, test, rework, and repair heavy machinery components and final drive assemblies.
• Operate test machines and remote‑controlled cranes to move and position equipment.
• Disassemble and reassemble complex assemblies to replace or repair damaged parts.
• Prepare prime products and attachments for shipment.
• Perform salvage operations and maintain a clean, organized work environment.
• Follow safety protocols and quality standards at all times.

Basic Qualifications

• Mechanical background or experience in industrial assembly.
• Strong communication skills and a commitment to safety and teamwork.
• Comfortable working at heights up to 20 feet using ladders or lifts.
• Ability to use hand tools and pneumatic (air) tools.
• Basic computer skills for data entry and system navigation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in a manufacturing or production environment.
• Familiarity with standard and metric measurement systems.
• Overhead crane operation experience.
• Forklift certification.
• Understanding of 5S workplace organization principles.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and 3D/2D schematics.

Compensation & Benefits

• Starting Pay: $20.40/hour + $1.00/hour shift premium.
• Schedule: 40 hours/week with overtime pay (1.5x) for hours over 40.
• Health care coverage starting Day 1 (must enroll within 31 days).
• Paid lunch period.
• Automatic wage increases every 26 weeks (or faster based on performance).
• Annual market‑based pay adjustments.

Additional Information

• Assessment Required: Candidates must complete an online assessment sent via email after applying.
• Pre‑employment Screening: All candidates must pass a drug screening for prohibited substances.
• This employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to specific employer, such as H, L, TN, F, J, E or O visas.

Safety is a core value at Caterpillar. We owe it to our employees and families to work in a safe and secure workplace.

Caterpillar is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All qualified individuals – including minorities, females, veterans, and individuals with disabilities – are encouraged to apply. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.

Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.

Posting Dates: April 21, 2026 – May 30, 2026

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