Production Manager

Career Area: Manufacturing 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.

Are you a passionate manufacturing leader who thrives on developing teams, driving continuous improvement, and delivering operational results? As a Production Manager, you will lead daily manufacturing operations on third shift and play a key role in shaping a culture of safety, quality, accountability, and performance. You will empower teams to achieve production goals, solve complex operational challenges, and implement initiatives that improve efficiency and business outcomes. Working closely with cross-functional partners, you will have the opportunity to influence plant performance, develop future leaders, and make a meaningful impact on the success of the operation. This role is ideal for a hands-on leader who enjoys motivating teams, driving change, and achieving results in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. The position requires flexibility to support a demanding production schedule, including significant overtime and regular weekend coverage.

Lead daily manufacturing operations to ensure safety, quality, productivity, and delivery targets are achieved. Manage and develop production teams through coaching, performance management, employee development, and succession planning. Drive continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to optimize processes, reduce waste, and improve operational efficiency. Troubleshoot production, equipment, quality, and staffing issues while implementing effective corrective actions to minimize downtime and improve performance. Develop and manage production schedules, staffing requirements, and resource allocation to support business objectives and customer demand. Monitor key performance indicators and utilize operational data to support decision-making and drive measurable results. Partner with engineering, quality, maintenance, supply chain, and other cross-functional teams to resolve operational challenges and support plant goals. Ensure compliance with safety policies, quality standards, and company procedures while promoting a culture of accountability and operational excellence. Education requirement: Candidates should possess a Bachelors degree or demonstrate equivalent knowledge through professional expertise. What skills you will have: Performance Management: Demonstrated knowledge of leading and developing production teams, including employee coaching, performance management, workforce planning, employee engagement, and talent development. Problem Solving: Extensive knowledge of production troubleshooting, root cause analysis, corrective and preventive actions (CAPA), process optimization, Lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement methodologies. Planning and Organizing : Demonstrated ability to manage production schedules, allocate resources, coordinate cross-functional teams, and lead projects that improve productivity, efficiency, quality, and delivery performance. Decision Making & Critical Thinking : Working knowledge of data-driven decision making, KPI analysis, risk assessment, operational leadership, and manufacturing processes, including machining operations and production environments.

This position requires the candidate to work onsite five days a week at the East Peoria, IL facility. This position supports third-shift operations and requires significant overtime, including regular weekend work, to meet production demands. Domestic relocation