Production Manager - 2nd Shift

Caterpillar•East Peoria, IL

5d•Onsite

About The Position

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. Join our team as a Production Manager at our East Peoria, IL facility, leading 2nd shift operations and playing a key role in driving a safe, efficient, and high-performing manufacturing environment. In this position, you will oversee daily production activities, lead and develop team members, and ensure safety, quality, delivery, and productivity goals are achieved. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with strong manufacturing operations experience, proven success leading teams in a production environment, and a passion for operational excellence. This is an exciting opportunity to make a direct impact on plant performance while supporting the growth and success of a dedicated production team.

Requirements

Performance Management: Proven ability to lead and develop hourly employees and frontline supervisors in a manufacturing environment.
Track record of driving accountability through coaching, performance management, and employee development.
Working knowledge of workforce metrics such as productivity, attendance, overtime, and employee engagement.
Problem Solving: Strong background utilizing Lean Manufacturing, A3, 5 Why, PDCA, or similar root cause methodologies.
Demonstrated success resolving production, quality, safety, and equipment-related issues.
Ability to drive continuous improvement initiatives that increase efficiency and reduce waste.
Planning & Organizing: Proficiency using SAP or similar ERP systems to manage production schedules, inventory, and material flow.
Proven ability to coordinate labor, resources, and production plans to meet business objectives.
Advanced Microsoft Excel skills for reporting, KPI tracking, and operational analysis.
Decision Making & Critical Thinking: Ability to analyze production data and make timely decisions that support safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets.
Working knowledge of key manufacturing metrics such as OEE, scrap, downtime, labor efficiency, and schedule attainment.
Familiarity with Power BI, Tableau, or similar reporting tools to support data-driven decision making.

Nice To Haves

A degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related field is preferred but not required. Candidates may also demonstrate equivalent knowledge through relevant professional experience.

Responsibilities

Manage daily production operations to meet safety, quality, and delivery goals.
Lead and develop a high-performing team, providing coaching, feedback, and support.
Plan and coordinate schedules, resources, and materials to ensure efficient workflow.
Monitor KPIs and use production management and Microsoft tools to track performance and drive improvements.
Ensure compliance with quality standards and apply Lean principles to reduce waste.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve issues and support continuous improvement.
Interpret blueprints and technical drawings to guide production accuracy.
Promote a strong safety culture and ensure adherence to all safety protocols.