Caterpillar
Manufacturing Automation Manager
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 our team as a
Manufacturing Automation Manager
and lead the transformation of our Decatur facility into a smart manufacturing hub. You will drive innovation through
robotics ,
AI ,
machine learning ,
PLC programming , and
3D vision systems , deploying advanced automation across welding, painting, assembly, and material handling operations. This role is ideal for a hands-on leader with deep technical expertise in
industrial automation ,
robotic integration , and
smart factory technologies . You'll manage full-cycle automation projects, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and shape long-term automation strategies aligned with business goals. Key Responsibilities Lead automation projects across welding, painting, assembly, and material handling. Design and deploy robotic systems including
AGVs ,
AMRs ,
cobots , and sensor-based solutions. Program
PLCs
and integrate industrial robots into manufacturing workflows. Implement
AI ,
machine learning , and
3D vision
technologies to optimize production. Troubleshoot and enhance performance of existing automation systems. Manage project timelines, budgets, and stakeholder communications. Conduct cost-benefit analyses and variance reporting. Align automation strategies with business objectives and develop tactical execution plans. Required Skills & Competencies Industrial Automation & Robotics Lead architecture and commissioning of automation systems. Integrate robotics with human workflows and monitor performance. Develop long-range automation strategies and performance metrics. Project Administration Manage complex automation projects from concept to deployment. Conduct financial analysis and reporting for automation initiatives. Strategic & Tactical Planning Align automation initiatives with business goals. Allocate resources and develop tactical plans for implementation. Technical Expertise Strong background in
PLC programming
and system integration. Experience with
robotic programming , algorithms, and smart factory systems. Proven ability to develop and deploy robotic solutions in manufacturing. Preferred Background Experience in manufacturing environments with exposure to automation systems. Project management experience in industrial settings. Familiarity with
AI ,
machine learning , and
3D vision
technologies. Education Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field (preferred). Additional Information This position is based full-time in
Decatur, IL . Relocation assistance is available. Visa sponsorship is not available. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. 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: 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
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 our team as a
Manufacturing Automation Manager
and lead the transformation of our Decatur facility into a smart manufacturing hub. You will drive innovation through
robotics ,
AI ,
machine learning ,
PLC programming , and
3D vision systems , deploying advanced automation across welding, painting, assembly, and material handling operations. This role is ideal for a hands-on leader with deep technical expertise in
industrial automation ,
robotic integration , and
smart factory technologies . You'll manage full-cycle automation projects, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and shape long-term automation strategies aligned with business goals. Key Responsibilities Lead automation projects across welding, painting, assembly, and material handling. Design and deploy robotic systems including
AGVs ,
AMRs ,
cobots , and sensor-based solutions. Program
PLCs
and integrate industrial robots into manufacturing workflows. Implement
AI ,
machine learning , and
3D vision
technologies to optimize production. Troubleshoot and enhance performance of existing automation systems. Manage project timelines, budgets, and stakeholder communications. Conduct cost-benefit analyses and variance reporting. Align automation strategies with business objectives and develop tactical execution plans. Required Skills & Competencies Industrial Automation & Robotics Lead architecture and commissioning of automation systems. Integrate robotics with human workflows and monitor performance. Develop long-range automation strategies and performance metrics. Project Administration Manage complex automation projects from concept to deployment. Conduct financial analysis and reporting for automation initiatives. Strategic & Tactical Planning Align automation initiatives with business goals. Allocate resources and develop tactical plans for implementation. Technical Expertise Strong background in
PLC programming
and system integration. Experience with
robotic programming , algorithms, and smart factory systems. Proven ability to develop and deploy robotic solutions in manufacturing. Preferred Background Experience in manufacturing environments with exposure to automation systems. Project management experience in industrial settings. Familiarity with
AI ,
machine learning , and
3D vision
technologies. Education Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field (preferred). Additional Information This position is based full-time in
Decatur, IL . Relocation assistance is available. Visa sponsorship is not available. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. 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: 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