Career Area:

Manufacturing

Job 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 Automation Manager

Location: Decatur, IL
Travel: Up to 5%
Domestic Relocation: Available
Visa Sponsorship: Not available

About the Role

As a Manufacturing Automation Manager, you will lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced automation systems across our manufacturing operations. This role is critical in driving innovation through robotics, AI, machine learning, and 3D vision technologies to improve safety, quality, and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead major automation projects across welding, painting, assembly, and material handling
• Collaborate with internal teams and external suppliers to implement cutting-edge automation solutions
• Program PLCs and integrate robotic systems into manufacturing workflows
• Deploy AGVs, AMRs, cobots, and sensor-based solutions across the facility
• Identify and implement process automation improvements aligned with strategic goals
• Troubleshoot and optimize existing automation systems

Preferred Background

• Experience in manufacturing environments
• Project management experience
• Familiarity with AI, machine learning, and 3D vision systems

Degree Requirement:

• Engineering degree (preferred)

Required Skills & Competencies

Industrial Automation & Robotics

• Lead architecture and commissioning of automation systems
• Develop long-range automation strategies and performance metrics
• Integrate robotics with human workflows and monitor performance

Project Administration

• Manage project timelines, budgets, and communications
• Conduct cost-benefit analyses and variance reporting

Strategic & Tactical Planning

• Align automation initiatives with business objectives
• Allocate resources and develop tactical plans

Technical Expertise

• Experience with industrial robot programming and algorithms
• Proven ability to develop robotic solutions for manufacturing
• Strong background in PLC programming and system integration

Robotics Engineer

Industrial Automation

PLC Programming

AI in Manufacturing

Cobots and AGVs

Smart Factory

Manufacturing Automation

3D Vision Systems

Robotic Programming

Scan and Autonomous robot Programming

Summary Pay Range:

$126,000.00 - $189,000.00

Compensation 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 benefits

• Life Insurance

• Parental leave

• Adoption benefits

• Tuition Reimbursement

       

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees

Posting Dates:

September 9, 2025 - September 29, 2025

Any 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.

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