Training & Development Specialist - CNC / Machining Operations

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.

Training & Development Specialist - CNC / Machining Operations

Primary Location: East Peoria, IL (LL)
Travel: Up to 10%
Relocation Assistance: Not Available
Visa Sponsorship: Not Available

Job Summary

As a Training & Development Specialist - CNC / Machining Operations, you will design, implement, and deliver technical training programs that build workforce capability and support manufacturing performance. Based in East Peoria, Illinois, this role focuses on developing employee skills across CNC machining processes, ensuring safe, high-quality production standards. You will partner closely with operations leaders and subject matter experts to create engaging, hands-on learning experiences that support both new hires and experienced machinists. This role plays a critical part in improving production readiness, safety, and employee development in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

What You Will Do

• Design and deliver CNC machining training programs that support onboarding, upskilling, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Assess training needs and translate them into structured learning plans, curriculum, and measurable outcomes aligned to business goals.
• Develop and facilitate training on key machining topics including machine setup, blueprint reading, tolerances, gauging, tooling selection, and safe work practices.
• Deliver instructor-led, on-the-job, and blended learning experiences that meet adult learning principles and operational requirements.
• Partner with operations leaders and subject matter experts to standardize work instructions and improve training effectiveness.
• Evaluate training effectiveness through assessments, observation, and feedback; adjust programs to improve learning outcomes.
• Maintain training documentation and support compliance with organizational and regulatory requirements.

What Skills You Have

• Experience designing and/or delivering training in a manufacturing, industrial, or technical environment.
• Working knowledge of instructional design, adult learning principles, and training delivery methods.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to engage frontline employees and technical stakeholders.
• Proven problem-solving ability to identify skill gaps and implement effective learning solutions.
• Degree or equivalent experience desired.
• Ability to support training in manufacturing processes such as machining, production operations, or technical trades.

Preferred Skills

• Hands-on experience with CNC machining or machine shop operations.
• Experience training on blueprint reading, dimensional inspection, tolerances, and tooling.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, 5S, and total productive maintenance (TPM).
• Experience using training technologies, learning systems, or digital learning tools.
• Ability to coach and develop employees across varying skill levels in a production environment.

What You Will Get

• Opportunity to shape CNC machining talent development in a leading manufacturing environment
• Exposure to both technical training and operations leadership partnerships
• Career growth within operations, training, and learning & development functions
• Competitive compensation and benefits aligned to market benchmarks

 

 

Summary Pay Range:

$81,370.00 - $122,060.00

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 plan