
Operations Automation Technician
Caterpillar · Champaign, IL
- Level
- Technician
- Team
- Controls
- Industry
- Industrial
- Posted
- 2 days ago
The role in 30 seconds
An engineer-level controls role at Caterpillar (industrial) in Champaign, IL. You will be responsible for using operational data and automation tools to identify opportunities to improve process efficiency and safety.
- Tools it names
- Value stream mapping, Root cause, Robotics, Automation
- Day to day
- some off-shift / weekend coverage
Read from the posting. The full description is below.
How this role compares
Against 9 other live controls postings in Illinois.
- Experience asked
- Not stated
Similar roles usually ask 4+ years.
Skills these teams ask for most
- ✓ Robotics 80%
- ✓ Automation 80%
- PLC 60%
- ✓ Root cause 50%
✓ = this posting asks for it too. % = share of similar postings that mention it.
At a glance
Pulled from the posting text. If it's not listed here, the posting didn't say.
How to get in at this plant
Five moves over a week or two. The first one takes ten minutes.
- 1
Pick 2–3 people on the Controls team at Caterpillar
We found 15 people at this company and state: 11 on the team, 4 leaders, plus 3 likely hiring managers. Engineers who joined in the last year or two reply the most. See them ↓
- 2
Send a short, curious note
One real question about their work. No favors yet. Each person gets a different note, written for this role.
Write to Scott → (free) - 3
Turn a reply into a short call
Questions worth asking about this team:
- What does a normal week look like on your team?
- How does off-shift and weekend coverage work?
- How did you land the job? What stood out in your interviews?
- 4
Apply with someone vouching for you
If the call went well, ask whether they’d pass your résumé to the hiring manager. Send your résumé link, apply that day, and let them know.
- 5
Bring proof to the interview
One page of before-and-after numbers from projects you led: scrap, OEE, cycle time, cost. Plant managers hire on results.
This plant: Caterpillar in Champaign
No other open roles at this site right now · 15 people we found on the controls team.
Full description from CaterpillarAs posted on their careers site.ShowHide
What You Will Do
- ◆Analyze operational data to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities for improvement.
- ◆Use Pacefactory and other tools to evaluate traffic flow, congestion areas, and potential safety concerns.
- ◆Support analysis of robotics and autonomous vehicle operations to identify opportunities for improved efficiency and safety.
- ◆Monitor operational KPIs and assist with routine reporting and dashboards.
- ◆Help automate recurring data collection and reporting activities.
- ◆Translate data findings into practical recommendations for process improvements.
- ◆Partner with operations and technical teams to support continuous improvement initiatives.
- ◆Assist with identifying and documenting opportunities to improve workflow, productivity, and workplace safety.
- ◆Maintain accurate data and reporting to support operational decision-making.
What You Have (Basic Requirements)
- ✓Problem Solving: Knowledge of approaches, tools, techniques for recognizing, anticipating, and resolving organizational, operational or process problems; ability to apply knowledge of problem solving appropriately to diverse situations.
- ✓Analytical Thinking: Knowledge of techniques and tools that promote effective analysis; ability to determine the root cause of organizational problems and create alternative solutions that resolve these problems.
- ✓Accuracy and Attention to Detail: Understanding the necessity and value of accuracy; ability to complete tasks with high levels of precision.
Show full description ↓Show less ↑
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.
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you’re joining a global team who care not just about the work we do – but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers and future work 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.
Our Product Support and Logistics Division (PSLD) is one of the most innovative divisions within Caterpillar. In PSLD, as within all of Caterpillar, our priority is our customers and helping them build a better world. We touch nearly every element of the services value stream. PSLD is responsible for Aftermarket Parts Distribution of Cat Parts, Integrated Logistics and Global Services supporting Caterpillar dealers and customers. Our teams work together in critical areas that leverage digital capabilities, technology and operational excellence.
As an Operations Automation Technician , you will be responsible for using operational data and automation tools to identify opportunities to improve process efficiency and safety. You will analyze data from systems such as Pacefactory to identify traffic patterns, congestion areas, and potential safety concerns, including those related to robotics and autonomous vehicles. In this role, you will support reporting and data analysis, monitor trends and KPIs, and help translate findings into practical recommendations for process improvements.
Additional Information
- •This role is located in Champaign, IL and does not offer relocation.
- •This role is 1st shift, Monday – Friday.
- •This role is 100% on-site with no opportunity for hybrid or remote schedules.
- •This role requires up to 5% domestic travel.
What Will Set You Apart (Top Candidates Will Have)
- •Prior experience with data analysis or reporting.
- •Strong problem-solving and continuous improvement mindset.
- •Comfort working with technology and learning new systems.
- •Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools, particularly Excel.
- •Exposure to statistical analysis through coursework or practical experience.
- •Interest in automation, AI-driven analytics, and reducing manual reporting.
- •Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- •Ability to work cross-functionally with employees at all levels of the organization.
What You Will Get
This is Caterpillar – creating and delivering world-class components and solutions superior to the competition. Learn more about The Caterpillar Experience and why It's More Than a Job, it's a Career at Caterpillar.
Learn more about what happens inside Caterpillar’s Product Support & Logistics Division (PSLD) .
About Caterpillar
Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. For nearly 100 years, we’ve been helping customers build a better, more sustainable world and are committed and contributing to a reduced-carbon future. Our innovative products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value that helps customers succeed.
#LI
#BI
Summary Pay Range
$28.70 - $43.10
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*
- •Volun
