Production Operator - First Shift - Full Benefits Day-One!

Caterpillar; West Plains (MO); On-site; USD 26,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Starting wage

401(k) match

Medical, dental, vision

HSA

Bonus up to 11%

Paid vacation

Paid holidays

Overtime opportunities

Tuition assistance

Job summary

Caterpillar in West Plains, MO is hiring a Production Operator to run shop equipment and help meet safety, quality and production goals. This full-time role offers structured day-shift hours, first shift Mon-Fri 7:00am–3:30pm, and a starting wage of $18.55 per hour with opportunities for overtime.

Benefits start day one and include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) match with company contributions, HSA, annual incentives up to 11%, paid time off, holidays, tuition assistance, and more.

Qualifications

• Basic computer skills and ability to follow SOPs.
• Prior experience in a manufacturing environment is preferred.
• Experience with hose fabrication is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Operate assigned machines safely to meet safety, quality and productivity goals.
• Input quality and production data and log maintenance tickets.
• Cross-train in multiple shop areas and operate forklift/crane when trained.
• Maintain tool/equipment accountability and follow LOTO procedures.
• Support continuous improvement and optional overtime.

Skills

Basic computer skills

Manufacturing experience

Hose fabrication experience

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.

PRODUCTION OPERATOR JOB SUMMARY

Responsible for all machine operation in the shop area to achieve Safety, Quality, and Production goals.

What we offer

• Starting wage is $18.55/hour
• 6% 401k match
• Day one medical, dental, vision, RX (get all starting as low as $38.00/month!)
• HSA with company contribution
• Monthly bonus (possibility of up to 11%)
• 80 hours paid vacation days (prorated first calendar year)
• Paid personal days
• 11 paid holidays
• Potential annual merit increases
• Opportunity for overtime hours
• Education Tuition Assistance

Pay and Shift Pattern Details

• Full-time position starting at $18.55/hour
• First Shift: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 3:30pm

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

Duties include but are not limited to the following:

• Work Safely by following HPH Safe Job Procedures and adhering to guidelines
• Meet Quality and Productivity targets
• Interface with computer to input Quality and Production data and log Maintenance tickets
• Cross train in multiple areas of the shop (Liner Extrude/Fabric Wrap, Mandrel Return, Spiral Wind, Cover Extrude/Shrink Tape Wrap, Extract/Unwrap, Autoclave, Bobbin Wind/ Deck Strip, Bobbin Repair, Coiling/Reeling, Shipping, Slitter, Forklift, L6, L7)
• Trained in Forklift and Crane operation
• Adjust and maintain machine settings to achieve Quality and Production needs
• Submit Continuous Improvement Ideas
• Perform daily 6-S task
• Sign up for posted overtime
• Perform LOTO procedures and Co-operative maintenance
• Account for all tools and equipment at the start and end of shift
• Actively participate and communicate in Performance DialogsJob Expectations:

Job Expectations

• Safety Focus - Works safely and looks out for the safety of others
• Quality Focus - Attention to quality in their own and others work
• Production Focus - Productive and works efficiently, drives productivity with others
• Teamwork - Demonstrated ability to be a team player and to take initiative to develop a spirit of teamwork
• Knowledge of Work Areas - Knowledgeable of all equipment in team area and can trouble shoot problems
• Knowledge of Hose Manufacturing - Ability to understand the interrelationships of HPH processes. Possesses knowledge of various HPH manufacturing functions and the ability to locate and utilize the necessary information.
• Time Management - Makes effective use of time, budgets time to complete all assignments
• Competency - Ability to handle assignments and overcome problems, can be trusted to do the job right
• Communication - Must be able to effectively communicate to all levels of HPH employees. Communications must be clear, concise, and non-threatening. Must be able to listen effectively.

Basic Qualifications

• Basic skills/knowledge using a computer (intermediate skill set level - capable of functioning independently)

Top candidates will also have:

• Previous experience in manufacturing
• Hose fabrication experience
• Basic skills/knowledge following written work instructions such as standard operating procedures or standard work documents (capable of functioning independently)

Physical Requirements

• Constant walking/standing on concrete floor up to 12 hours
• Frequent lifting of 25-30 lbs
• Frequent pushing/pulling
• Frequent bending/twisting

Additional Information

• Work Location: West Plains, MO (Pomona)
• Relocation assistance is not provided for this position

Please ensure you frequently check the e-mail account you provided on your application, including the junk/spam folder, as this is the primary correspondence method in our recruiting process. If you wish to know the status of your application - please review your job submissions on our career website as it will reflect any updates to your status.

Summary Pay Range

$18.55 - $24.15

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 benefitsLife InsuranceParental leaveAdoption benefitsTuition Reimbursement
• These benefits also apply to part-time employees

Posting Dates

October 15, 2026 - October 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.