Senior Helicopter Operations Manager Jobs in Decatur, IL

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.

Senior Production Manager

Location: Decatur, IL

Travel: Up to 5%

Relocation Assistance: Available

Visa Sponsorship: Not Available

Job Type: Full-Time

Job Level: Manager

Industry: Manufacturing / Industrial Operations

Function: Manufacturing Operations / Safety / Quality / Performance Management

Job Summary

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.

Key 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.

Required Skills & Competencies

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.

Preferred Background

• 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.

Education

• Degree or equivalent experience

Summary Pay Range

$112,710.00 - $169,060.00

Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, 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

This position requires working onsite five days a week. Relocation is available for this position. Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Posting Dates

June 22, 2026 - July 5, 2026

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.