Senior Production Manager
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 Caterpillar as a 1st shift Senior Production Manager and lead the day-to-day operations of a large manufacturing facility or multiple facilities in Decatur. This role is responsible for driving operational excellence, safety, and quality across all shifts. You will manage staffing, develop high-performing teams, and implement lean manufacturing and Built-in Quality (BIQ) principles to ensure efficient, compliant, and cost-effective production. This position is ideal for a hands-on leader with deep expertise in fabrication, machining, and assembly, and a passion for continuous improvement and performance management.
Requirements
- Manufacturing Operations: Oversees daily production activities, ensures cross-functional coordination, and enforces safety compliance across manufacturing workflows.
- Manufacturing Safety: Leads OSHA-compliant safety inspections, develops emergency protocols, and fosters a proactive safety culture for employees and contractors.
- Quality Management: Conducts quality reviews and implements assurance processes using Six Sigma, ISO 9000, or Baldrige standards to drive continuous improvement.
- Planning & Organizing: Develops contingency plans, manages competing priorities, and monitors execution to ensure operational goals are met.
- Performance Management: Provides coaching and feedback, supports employee development, and leverages recognition programs to enhance team performance.
Nice To Haves
- Experience leading operations in large-scale manufacturing environments.
- Proven track record in lean transformation and safety leadership.
- Familiarity with BIQ and global manufacturing standards.
- Strong leadership in cross-functional collaboration and continuous improvement.
Responsibilities
- Lead and develop a high-performing operations management team.
- Oversee staffing, development, and performance management programs.
- Ensure safety, schedule adherence, and production targets are met.
- Drive continuous improvement in safety, cost, and quality.
- Implement lean manufacturing and BIQ principles.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory guidelines and safety standards.
- Manage fabrication, machining, and assembly operations.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, IT, and customer service teams.
Benefits
- 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
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
Education Level
Associate degree
