Manufacturing Engineer - CNC Programmer

Caterpillar•South Milwaukee, WI

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Caterpillar Global Mining is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer with expertise in CNC programming, 5-axis machining, and lean manufacturing to support our South Milwaukee facility. Main responsibilities include developing CNC programs to machine large mining components such as structures, frames, gears, and shafts. This role involves operating metal cutting equipment including milling centers, lathes, and turning centers. The engineer will use CAM software to generate G & M code for machining large steel components with precision and efficiency.

Requirements

Degree or equivalent experience desired
Proficiency in CNC machining and turning operations (5-axis preferred including milling, turning, drilling, tapping, boring.)
Experience with offline CNC programming and simulation tools.
CAD/CAM software expertise (preferably GibbsCam, NXCam, Vericut).
3D modeling experience with CAD software (preferably Creo/ProE or SolidWorks).
Knowledge of various machining cutting tool technologies.
Thorough knowledge of lean manufacturing concepts and principles.
Demonstrated experience managing projects using structured methodologies (e.g., PMI, Agile) and tools.
Familiarity with NPI processes, including prototype development, design for manufacturability, and production ramp-up.
Ability to lead cross-functional teams and coordinate activities across engineering, quality, and supply chain.
Manufacturing Processes: Knowledge of existing product manufacturing methods, technologies and processes; ability to execute, plan, manage and monitor the entire manufacturing process.
Manufacturing Safety: Knowledge of manufacturing safety; ability to identify work-related hazards and perform necessary activities to meet regulatory requirements for the safety and protection of workers, environment and site.
Manufacturing Standards, Procedures and Policies: Knowledge of organizational standards, procedures and policies in manufacturing activities; ability to plan, guide, and monitor manufacturing processes for compliance.
Problem Management Process - MFG: Knowledge of manufacturing problem management processes, methodologies and techniques; ability to use a disciplined approach to bringing that problem to a successful resolution.

Responsibilities

Develop and maintain manufacturing processes to safely and efficiently machine components used on Caterpillar's large mining equipment.
Create and validate CNC programs for machining centers and turning operations (up to 5-axis).
Create manufacturing operation specifications and supporting documents such as standard operation procedures and work instructions, machine setup drawings, cutting tool specifications, and production cycle time and manufacturing rate process sheets.
Provide technical support to production CNC machining and gear cutting operations and personnel.
Design and specify work holding, jigs, and fixtures for complex machining tasks.
Lead problem solving and root cause analysis investigations to address operational issues including ergonomic/safety risks, quality concerns, manufacturing efficiency and cost savings improvements, and process bottlenecks.
Provide technical support for manufacturing quality control and ISO compliance certifications.
Coordinate and manage outside vendors and suppliers to ensure cost effective, quality service and products are provided.
Assist in the investigation and justification of the purchase of new software, machinery, tooling, and related equipment to ensure the latest technology and manufacturing practices are being utilized to improve operations and support activities.
Lead or support New Product Introduction (NPI) projects, ensuring seamless integration of new components and processes into production.
Apply project management principles to plan, execute, and monitor manufacturing projects, including timeline management, resource allocation, and cross-functional collaboration.