Production Manager

Job Purpose Manages the structure and method of OEM engineering, manufacturing of locomotive products and related lean or value stream processes, scheduling both internally and reporting externally, employee performance and metrics and ensuring adherence to safety protocols. Oversees day‑to‑day operation and movement of the shop. Company Description Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation—driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world’s largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost‑effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD locomotives that ride them, the company’s products are in operation across more than 100 countries—powering progress and connecting communities. In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting‑edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail—they are making history every day. Key Job Elements Manages and schedules manufacturing of Progress Rail products Determines processing needs to assure fixtures, tooling and methods are provided to meet schedulers and production requirements Determines overtime needs, determines priorities when resources are limited Ensures necessary parts and materials are ordered and distributed Suggests changes in working conditions and use of equipment to maximize efficiency Ensures preventive maintenance is performed according to schedule Implements various corporate initiatives, such as 5S, Lean Manufacturing, etc. Monitors and improves safety on the shop floor; eliminates/mitigates any unsafe conditions Evaluates, assesses, and identifies training needs for the workforce; assists with creating, training, and implementing work standards Adjusts section staffing to meet flow and customer requirements Works with other major areas of the facility to facilitate cleanliness of units and full completion of issues that arise Develops coworkers/team members to further strengthen their core competencies; provides feedback and evaluates employees Tracks production and material fallout Practices and teaches CPS Guiding Principles Drives Root Cause identification; drives continuous process improvement Performs additional job‑related duties as assigned Education / Training Some college/associate’s degree; bachelor’s degree preferred, but not required Requires a thorough knowledge of CPS processes and tools, machine shop operations, equipment, and processes, plus familiarity with materials and quality objectives 3‑5+ years of experience working in a machine tool environment; experience in production supervision Supervisor and/or Manager training; ability to work together in a team environment; ability to manage a diverse workforce Training in Lean Manufacturing and Auditing preferred Qualifications And Experience Strong communication skills, both written and oral Strong proficiency with MS Office tools (Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and Blueprint reading Understanding of scheduling and manpower planning Strength – Position typically involves oversight in an industrial environment. Frequent standing, sitting, walking. Occasional light to medium‑level lifting (up to 30 pounds) Motion – Position regularly requires standard motions associated with leading and demonstrating in an industrial environment. Occasional reaching, handling, pulling, stooping, carrying, kneeling, crouching Vision/Hearing Requirements – Constant verbal communications, including both talking and hearing Work Environment – Position is Safety Sensitive and will frequently require the use of Personal Protective Equipment. Might involve work in a non‑temperature‑controlled environment and occasional exposure to noise (85+ decibels), temperature changes, heavy machinery and other hazardous working conditions Emotional Demands – Very high level of responsibility. Must be able to coordinate diverse aspects of a project. Requires significant interpersonal skills while sustaining very high standards Safety – Position is Safety Sensitive and will require the use of Personal Protective Equipment Benefits Competitive Salary 401(k) plan with up to 6% company match (no waiting period with immediate vesting) Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance Supplemental Accident, Critical Care, and Hospital Insurance available along with an HDHP and HSA with seed money Flexible Spending Accounts Paid Vacation Paid Holidays Paid Time‑Off (PTO) Employee Assistance Plan Education Assistance Program Employee Recognition Programs Site specific Production and Incentive Plans Site specific Step and Skill Level Wage Adjustment Plans Site Specific Relocation and Sign‑on Bonus Programs Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full‑time/part‑time and regular/temporary status. The provisions of the plan documents control such benefits Subject to position, eligibility, and plan guidelines EEO Progress Rail is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities Job Category Production - Operations & Support PRS Facility Location Waskom, TX Wheel Shop - 059 #J-18808-Ljbffr Progress Rail, A Caterpillar Company