CNC Operator
Progress Rail, A Caterpillar Company · Taylor Mill, Kentucky · Posted Jul 3, 2026
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Job Purpose
$$ELIGIBLE FOR QUARTERLY BONUSES$$200-500$$
COMPETITIVE PAY - UP TO $22.00 BY ONE YEAR WITH SHIFT DIFFS FOR 2ND AND 4TH
(Range $19-$20 depending on position and shift differentials)
$3.00 SHIFT DIFF FOR 2ND SHIFT AND 4TH SHIFT
ASK FOR OUR STEP PROGRESSION PROGRAM!!
Final grinding/polishing of switch-points- steel rail according to specifications as part of the manufacturing process of railroad track and turnout assemblies. Machine operators’ set-up, operate, and maintain machinery, usually in a manufacturing setting. They are responsible for ensuring the maintaining the machine and that it produces high quality products at or above capacity.
Req ID
12067BR
Work Location Options
Northern Kentucky
City
Taylor Mill
State:
Kentucky
Company Description
Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation—driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world’s largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost-effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD® locomotives that ride them, the company’s products are in operation across more than 100 countries—powering progress and connecting communities. In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting-edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail—they are making history every day.
Key Job Elements
Taylor Mill KY - This position will be on our 2nd shift in the Trans/Com Shop Department. Monday thru Thursday 445pm to 315am and training on 1st shift Monday thru Thursday 6am to 430pm for 6-10 weeks and with required overtime when needed.
Duties and responsibilities
- A Machine Operator operates assigned machinery, monitors and optimizing efficiency, does basic maintenance to machines and performs quality checks;
- Performs all assigned machine shop operations;
- Set up and operates machines;
- Observe machine operations, detect work piece defects and make adjustments to machinery when necessary to improve performance;
- Operate machinery and equipment according to work instructions;
- Troubleshoot issues and perform routine and minor maintenance. Submit work orders for the maintenance requirements;
- Read blueprints or job orders to determine product specification and tooling instructions;
- Follows reporting and recordkeeping procedures, and report problems to supervisor;
- Clean machinery and maintain cleanliness in work area;
- Detects and reports defective materials or questionable conditions to management;
- Maintains the work area and equipment in a clean, orderly condition and follows prescribed safety procedures;
- Assists in other work areas as needed and directed by the department supervisor.
Advanced duties and responsibilities
- Operate multiple machines simultaneously;
- Train others on the proper set and operation of machines in a safe and efficient manner;
- Forklift certified.
Preferred Skills
- Prior work experience relevant to the position;
- Basic mathematical skills and proficiency in reading a tape measure;
- Read and interpret blueprints;
- Mechanical and technical aptitude and capacity.
Education / Training
- HD diploma or equivalent.
Essential and Physical Activities Functions:
- Strength – Ability to lift up to 35lbs repeatedly;
- Motion – Employee will stand for majority of the shift, will kneel, squat and climb step multiple times throughout the day;
- Vision/Hearing Requirements – Must be able to hear and see parts as they are machined, looking and listening for deficiencies and machinery malfunctions. Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and nonverbally;
- Work Environment – The majority of the time will be indoors, in non-temperature-controlled environments. Position is exposed to oils, lubricants and other substances used in the machining process;
- Emotional Demands – Position requires employees to be vigilant to ensure safety of everyone in the area. Requires decisions on the proper operation of machine;
- Safety – Position is a safety sensitive position. Position requires following all safety procedures, policies and PPE requirements such that include hand, head, eye, hand, ear and foot protection.
Qualifications And Experience
- Prior machine or grinder experience preferred;
- Ability to multitask and work with minimal supervision;
- Must be able to read and write legibly and complete production reports with accuracy;
- Strong attention to detail with ability to inspect rail using measuring devices;
- Must be quality oriented and a team player;
- Must have complete understanding of safe work practices;
- Must be able to stand in one location for up to a 12 hour shift.
Skill Level I – 5 years of e…