Machinist - 2nd or 3rd Shift - Decatur, IL
About this role
Career Area:
OperationsJob 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.
CNC Machinist / Lathe Operator (Decatur, IL)
Job Title: CNC Machinist / Lathe Operator
Company: Caterpillar Inc.
Location: Decatur, Illinois
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay: Starting at $26.66/hr + $1.00/hr shift premium (if applicable)
Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, 401(k), Paid Time Off, and more
Shifts: Multiple shifts available based on business needs
Job Overview
Caterpillar Inc., a global leader in industrial equipment manufacturing, is hiring a CNC Machinist / Lathe Operator to support precision machining operations in our Decatur, IL facility. This position is ideal for candidates with experience in CNC machining, machine shop operations, and blueprint interpretation. You’ll work with advanced equipment including vertical turret lathes and multi-axis CNC machines to produce high-tolerance components used in Caterpillar’s heavy equipment.
Why You’ll Love Working Here
As a full-time Caterpillar employee, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) with company match
Paid time off and paid holidays
Employee assistance programs
Tuition reimbursement and training opportunities
Career advancement pathways within a global organization
We believe in investing in our people and providing a safe, inclusive, and growth-oriented workplace.
Key Responsibilities
Set up and operate CNC machining centers for turning, milling, drilling, hobbing, shaping, and skiving.
Manually operate vertical turret lathes for precision machining.
Adjust single spindle automatic cutoff machines for barstock and tubing.
Load/unload machines and follow safe working methods.
Interpret CMM data and apply quality control plans.
Maintain a clean and organized workspace using 5S and TPM principles.
Required Qualifications
Technical school diploma or equivalent in mechanical/manufacturing disciplines.
Prior experience in a machine shop or CNC machining environment.
Strong blueprint reading and machine drawing interpretation skills.
Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
Willingness to work any assigned shift.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with multi-axis CNC machines and vertical turret lathes.
Familiarity with 5S (Sort, Set, Shine, Standardize, Sustain) and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM).
Competencies
• Safety Focus – Demonstrates a commitment to working safely, following procedures, identifying potential hazards, and contributing to a safe work environment.
• Responsibility & Dependability – Takes ownership of assigned work, follows through on commitments, maintains attendance standards, and consistently delivers quality results.
• Teamwork & Collaboration – Works effectively with others, communicates respectfully, supports team goals, and contributes to a positive and productive work environment.
• Functional Expertise & Continuous Learning – Learns and applies job-related knowledge, follows established processes, solves routine work challenges, and adapts to new tools, equipment, and procedures.
• Mechanical Aptitude & Problem Solving – Demonstrates the ability to understand equipment, troubleshoot issues, interpret technical information, and apply mechanical reasoning to complete work safely and effectively.
Additional Information
Location: Decatur, IL
Relocation Assistance: Not available
Employment Type: Full-time with benefits
Drug Screening: Required prior to employment
Sponsorship: Not available for this role
Summary Pay Range:
$0.00 - $0.00Compensation 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 23, 2026 - October 4, 2026Any 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.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.
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