Manager Manufacturing Engineering

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.

Manager Manufacturing Engineering

At Caterpillar, we’re committed to our customers, who build a better, more sustainable world with our products, services and solutions. We understand and show the value of why they should choose us. We’re exploring new ideas and opportunities – innovating to discover the breakthroughs necessary for tomorrow’s growth. Through it all, we are one team – creating and delivering world-class products, services and solutions superior to the competition. Learn more about the Caterpillar Experience.

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. 

We have an exciting opportunity for a Manager Manufacturing Engineering to join our Large Power Systems team to support Caterpillar large engine production at our Kiel facility.

What You Will Do:

• Lead a team supporting operations and manufacturing processes, including tooling, tool design, and equipment required to produce assigned parts and products efficiently and cost-effectively in accordance with engineering specifications.
• Oversee the Manufacturing Engineering team, developing, coaching, and empowering employees to support plant operations and drive continuous improvement.
• Lead activities related to tool design, assembly and manufacturing processes, cost estimation, systems planning, plant layout, standards, and production release.
• Identify operational challenges, analyze performance trends, and implement sustainable improvements through structured problem-solving and cross-functional collaboration.
• Drive operational improvements through data analysis, working closely with Production, Engineering, Management, and other key stakeholders to implement effective and sustainable solutions.
• Manage the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of operating methods, equipment, systems, and infrastructure to achieve operational goals and objectives.
• Lead the installation of new machinery and equipment, as well as process changes, to enable efficient, scalable, and cost-effective manufacturing and assembly operations.
• Provide technical expertise across all aspects of production and assembly, with a focus on cost efficiency, operational excellence, workplace safety, and environmental requirements.
• Play a key role in shaping the future manufacturing footprint by introducing innovative manufacturing technologies, automation solutions, and operational best practices.
• Take ownership of change and transformation, building sustainable processes and structures that support operational excellence and future growth.

What You Have (Key Skills/Experience Required):

• Manufacturing Equipment: Strong knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and logistics equipment used in manufacturing, with the ability to maintain, improve, and optimize manufacturing equipment and systems.
• Manufacturing Processes: Strong understanding of manufacturing methods, technologies, and production systems, with the ability to develop, implement, and continuously improve manufacturing processes.
• Manufacturing Safety: Sound knowledge of manufacturing safety requirements, with the ability to identify workplace hazards and implement appropriate measures to protect employees, the environment, and the site.
• Manufacturing Standards & Lean Manufacturing: Knowledge of manufacturing standards, procedures, and policies, combined with a strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methods.
• Manufacturing Experience: Experience in manufacturing engineering, automation, production systems, flow-line manufacturing, or large-scale industrial operations, ideally with a proven track record of leading transformation initiatives, introducing new technologies, driving operational improvements, and developing teams and manufacturing capabilities.
• Analytical Thinking & Decision Making: Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with the ability to identify root causes, evaluate alternatives, and implement practical and sustainable solutions.
• Leadership & Collaboration: Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence across functions and build and develop high-performing teams.
• Adaptability & Ownership: High level of ownership, flexibility, and adaptability, with the ability to effectively manage multiple priorities in a dynamic and evolving environment.
• Degree or equivalent relevant professional experience.
• Very good German language skills (minimum C1) and good English language skills (minimum B2).

What Will Put You Ahead (Preferred Skills):

• Experience in manufacturing engineering, automation, production systems, flow-line manufacturing, or large-scale industrial operations.
• Proven track record of leading transformation initiatives, implementing new technologies, and driving operational improvements in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience building and developing high-performing teams, as well as scaling processes and manufacturing capabilities in a dynamic and evolving environment.

What You Will Get:

• Varied, responsible, and challenging tasks
• Opportunity to shape the future for a newly created entity
• Excellent earning opportunities according to the Caterpillar compensation system
• 30 days of vacation
• Company pension plan
• Bicycle leasing / job ticket / wellbeing allowance

Additional Information:

We are back! This role requires being in the office five days a week.

Note - Relocation assistance may be provided to candidates who meet the eligibility criteria.

A valid work permit or EU-25/EFTA citizenship is required for this position.

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 the past 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.

We value authenticity and encourage candidates to submit original, personally crafted responses throughout our hiring process. Use of AI-generated content may disadvantage your application.

Base Minimum Pay:

€89,785.00

Please note that salary is only one component of the total compensation and benefit package available at Caterpillar.

Posting Dates:

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.

Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.