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

Career Area:
Operations

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)

Shifts:

Multiple shifts available based on business needs

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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Experience with multi‑axis CNC machines and vertical turret lathes.
• Familiarity with 5S (Sort, Set, Shine, Standardize, Sustain) and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM).

• 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

$0.00 - $0.00

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.

• 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

July 6, 2026 - July 30, 2026

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.