Machinist - 2nd or 3rd Shift - Decatur, IL

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 / 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:

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.