CNC Machinist Horizontal Mill – 2nd or 3rd Shift

Career Area:

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.

CNC Machinist – Horizontal Milling Center

Location: South Milwaukee, WI

Shift: 2nd or 3rd Shift

Bonus: $2,000 Sign-On Bonus

Pay Progression:

• Step 1: $30.86/hr

• Step 2: $32.14/hr

• Step 3: $33.42/hr

• Shift Premium: +$1.00/hr for 2nd and 3rd shift

Job Summary

The Large Boring Bar Machinist is responsible for setting up and operating CNC horizontal milling centers and large boring mills to machine precision components for heavy equipment manufacturing. This role supports the production of large structural weldments, castings, and forgings using advanced machining techniques and equipment. The ideal candidate thrives in a high-precision, safety-driven manufacturing environment and demonstrates strong technical machining skills, blueprint interpretation, and attention to detail.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC horizontal milling centers and boring bar machines for large-scale machining

• Machine large steel components including weldments, castings, forgings, and plates

• Interpret manufacturing work instructions, blueprints, and operation sequences

• Align parts using fixtures, shims, parallels, clamps, and workholding devices

• Select and assemble appropriate tooling including boring bars, drills, taps, reamers, and milling cutters

• Load, run, and verify CNC programs (G & M code) and conduct trial runs as needed

• Adjust machine parameters such as feeds, speeds, and offsets to maintain tolerances

• Perform precision machining operations (boring, facing, drilling, tapping, counterboring)

• Conduct in-process inspection using micrometers, calipers, and other precision instruments

• Edit CNC programs and make manual adjustments where required

• Operate jib cranes and overhead cranes for material handling

• Maintain a clean and safe work environment in alignment with safety standards

• Support continuous improvement, quality initiatives, and team collaboration

Required Skills

• 1–3+ years of hands-on CNC machining experience

• Experience with horizontal boring mills or large machining centers

• Ability to read blueprints and technical drawings

• Strong understanding of machine shop math (including basic trigonometry)

• Experience using precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges)

• Knowledge of G-code/M-code programming fundamentals

• Understanding of machining processes and terminology

• Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety and quality standards

Preferred Skills

• Experience machining large steel structures or heavy equipment components

• Familiarity with Fanuc and/or Siemens CNC controls

• Experience with tight tolerance machining on large parts

• Prior experience in heavy industrial or OEM manufacturing environments

• Crane operation or rigging experience

Call to Action

If you’re a skilled CNC machinist with experience in large-part machining, horizontal milling, or boring bar operations, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact in world-class manufacturing. At our South Milwaukee facility, you won’t just machine parts — you’ll help produce critical components that support some of the largest and most powerful mining machines in the world, including Cat® Electric Rope Shovels (ERS). The work is massive in scale and complexity, requiring precision, craftsmanship, and a commitment to quality at every step. From machining large steel weldments, castings, and forgings to working with advanced CNC equipment and precision tooling, your expertise will directly contribute to products that stand apart in the heavy equipment industry. Join a team where your machining skills matter, your work has visible impact, and your career can keep growing.

Apply today and help build what matters.

Summary Pay Range:

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:

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.

Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.