Production Scheduler

Caterpillar • Mapleton, IL

116d • $95,640 - $143,520

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. As a Production Scheduler at Caterpillar, you will play a critical role in ensuring efficient and timely execution of manufacturing operations. You will be responsible for developing, maintaining, and optimizing production schedules that align with demand forecasts, resource availability, and operational goals. This role requires strong analytical capabilities, cross-functional collaboration, and a deep understanding of production planning principles. Proficiency in Excel, SAP, and ERP/MRP systems is essential, along with the ability to communicate effectively across teams and solve complex scheduling challenges. Your contributions will directly impact delivery performance, inventory levels, and overall production efficiency.

Requirements

• Degree in a related field preferred; alternatively, equivalent production scheduling knowledge gained through professional experience is acceptable.
• Proficient in Excel for data analysis, reporting, and visualization.
• Extensive background in SAP and other ERP systems for production planning and control.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in data gathering and analysis to identify trends and bottlenecks.
• Effective communication skills to convey scheduling priorities and changes to cross-functional teams.
• Ability to collaborate with procurement, manufacturing, and quality teams to align production plans.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and resolve conflicts between demand and capacity constraints.
• Knowledge of advanced planning techniques to align production with demand forecasts.

Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and optimize production schedules to meet customer demand, resource availability, and operational targets.
• Analyze production data using Excel and ERP systems (e.g., SAP) to identify trends, constraints, and opportunities for improvement.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including procurement, manufacturing, logistics, and engineering to ensure schedule alignment and execution.
• Monitor schedule adherence and proactively adjust plans to address material shortages, equipment downtime, or capacity issues.
• Communicate scheduling updates, risks, and priorities clearly across all levels of the organization to support informed decision-making.
• Apply production planning and control principles to balance workloads, minimize delays, and improve overall manufacturing efficiency.

Benefits

• Competitive Base Salary
• Annual incentive bonus plan
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holiday, Volunteer, Etc.)
• 401k savings plan
• Health savings account (HSA)
• Flexible spending accounts (FSAs)
• Short and long-term disability coverage
• Life Insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Healthy Lifestyle Programs
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Voluntary Benefits (Ex. Accident, Identity Theft Protection)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Machinery Manufacturing
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree