Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Career Area:ManufacturingJob Description: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.Manufacturing Engineering ManagerLocation: Decatur, ILTravel: Up to 10%Relocation Assistance: AvailableVisa Sponsorship: Not AvailableJob SummaryAs the Manufacturing Engineering Manager in Decatur, IL, you will work closely with operations and product leaders to align automated manufacturing systems, manufacturing processes, and product engineering around shared product-group objectives. You will lead manufacturing engineering capability across assembly, Fabrication and machining processing while building a strong, high‑performing engineering organization.This is an on‑site leadership role focused on improving manufacturing methods, equipment, systems, and operating infrastructure to deliver safety, quality, velocity, and cost results. The role plays a critical part in New Product Introduction (NPI) readiness and execution, ensuring smooth product launches and manufacturing scalability.You will drive innovation through robotics, AI, machine learning, and 3D vision systems, deploying advanced automation across welding, painting, assembly, and material handling operationsDegree Requirement: Degree or equivalent experience desired.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign and deploy automation systems including robots, AGVs, AMRs, and sensor-based solutions.Support New Product Introduction (NPI) activities by ensuring manufacturing readiness, process capability, tooling availability, and launch executionLead hiring, performance management, coaching, and development of manufacturing engineering teams supporting plant operationsDirect manufacturing engineering scope across assembly and manufacturing processing, cost estimating, systems planning, plant layout, standards, gaging/checking equipment, tooling, and work standardsManage the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of operating methods, equipment, systems, and manufacturing infrastructureDrive adoption and sustainment of lean manufacturing principles across the organizationLead capacity planning activities by translating demand signals into short‑term production and resource requirementsChampion structured problem solving for complex manufacturing, process, and equipment issuesRequired SkillsLean Manufacturing: Extensive experience leading lean adoption, work‑cell design, layout optimization, and performance measurementManufacturing Processes: Deep understanding of assembly and manufacturing processes, best practices, and standardizationManufacturing Equipment: Expertise in equipment selection, qualification, integration, and infrastructure changesProblem Solving & Decision Making: Proven ability to lead cross‑functional problem solving using data‑driven approachesPreferred SkillsExperience programing PLCs and integrating industrial robots into manufacturing workflowsExperience leading manufacturing readiness for New Product Introduction (NPI) and product launchesBackground in automated or advanced manufacturing systemsStrong knowledge of plant layout, tooling strategy, work standards, and manufacturing documentation/releasingExperience with manufacturing capacity planning and demand‑to‑capacity translationSummary Pay Range:$128,470.00 - $192,710.00Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar. Benefits:Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of 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 benefitsLife InsuranceParental leaveAdoption benefitsTuition Reimbursement* These benefits also apply to part-time employeesPosting Dates:August 13, 2026 - August 26, 2026Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.SummaryLocation: Decatur, IllinoisType: Full time