Where Cummins Hires and What Roles They Fill

Cummins is a global manufacturer of diesel and natural gas engines, power generation equipment, and related components. The company operates manufacturing plants, distribution centers, and engineering offices across the United States and internationally. Most hiring happens through their careers website, which lists open positions by location and department.

The types of roles available depend on the facility. Manufacturing plants hire production workers, machine operators, quality inspectors, and maintenance technicians. Engineering centers look for mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and software developers. Distribution and logistics centers need warehouse workers, forklift operators, and inventory specialists. Corporate offices in Columbus, Indiana (headquarters) and other cities hire accountants, human resources specialists, supply chain managers, and sales representatives.

Cummins also hires through staffing agencies and temporary-to-permanent programs, particularly for entry-level manufacturing positions. These routes can move faster than the main careers site, especially if you live near a major facility.

Key Takeaways

  • Cummins posts all open positions on their careers website at cummins.com/careers, searchable by location, job category, and experience level.
  • Manufacturing plants typically require a high school diploma or GED, while engineering and professional roles require a relevant degree or demonstrated experience.
  • The process process starts online and usually includes a phone screening before an in-person interview at the facility.
  • Staffing agencies and temporary placement firms often have Cummins positions available and may move faster than the main careers site.
  • Background checks, drug screening, and sometimes physical exams are standard parts of the hiring process before you start work.

How to Search and Filter Jobs on the Cummins Careers Site

Go to cummins.com/careers and use the search box to filter by location, job category, and experience level. You can search by city or state, or leave the location field blank to see all open positions nationwide. The site groups jobs into categories like Manufacturing, Engineering, Sales, Supply Chain, and Corporate Functions.

If you are looking for entry-level work, use the experience filter to show positions that do not require prior experience in that role. Many manufacturing positions are listed as "no experience necessary" or "will train," though they do require a high school diploma or GED. If you have specific skills — welding, CNC machining, electrical work — search for those terms directly in the search box to narrow results.

Save jobs you are interested in by clicking the heart icon. This creates a list you can return to later without searching again. You can also set up job alerts by location and category, which will email you when new positions match your criteria.

What You Need Before You Start an process

Have your resume or CV ready, even if it is basic. For manufacturing roles, you do not need a fancy document — a straightforward list of previous jobs, dates you worked, and what you did is enough. Include any certifications you hold: forklift certification, welding certification, OSHA training, or equipment-specific training all strengthen your process.

Gather contact information for previous employers and supervisors. Cummins will ask for references, and they often call to verify your work history. Have at least two people ready who can speak to your work — a former manager is best, but a coworker or trainer works too.

If you are explore for a role that requires a specific license or certification — commercial driver's license for delivery positions, professional engineering license for engineering roles — have proof ready. You will upload documents during the process, so take photos or scans of your diploma, certifications, or licenses beforehand.

The Online process and Initial Screening

Click "explore" on the job posting. You will create an account or log in if you already have one. Fill in your contact information, work history, and education. The form asks for employment dates, job titles, and reasons for leaving previous jobs. Be honest and specific — vague answers slow down the review process.

Some positions include a brief online assessment or questionnaire. Manufacturing roles might ask about your comfort with shift work, willingness to work overtime, or experience with machinery. These are not pass-or-fail tests; they help Cummins match you to the right role and schedule.

After you submit, you will receive a confirmation email. If your process moves forward, a recruiter or hiring manager will call you within one to two weeks. This call is usually brief — they confirm your availability, ask about your interest in the role, and answer basic questions about the job. Be ready to discuss your work history and why you want the position.

In-Person Interview and What Happens Next

If you pass the phone screening, you will be invited to interview at the facility. Interviews for manufacturing roles are usually one round, lasting 30 to 45 minutes. You will meet with a hiring manager or supervisor who asks about your experience, reliability, and ability to work in a team. Dress neatly — business casual or clean work clothes are appropriate.

For engineering and professional roles, expect two or three rounds of interviews. The first round is usually with human resources or a recruiter. Later rounds involve the department manager and sometimes team members you would work with. These interviews dig deeper into your technical skills and how you solve problems.

After the interview, Cummins will conduct a background check and drug screening. This typically takes one to two weeks. You will be asked to authorize the background check and provide consent for drug testing. Once those clear, you will receive a job offer with a start date, pay rate, and benefits information.

Using Staffing Agencies to Find Cummins Work

Staffing agencies like Kelly Services, Heidrick & Struggles, and local temporary placement firms often have open positions at Cummins facilities. These agencies are especially useful if you want to start work quickly — temporary assignments can begin within days of being placed. Many temporary roles convert to permanent positions after 90 days or six months.

To work with a staffing agency, contact them directly or visit their website and submit your resume. Tell them you are interested in Cummins positions and what type of work you want. They will call you to discuss your experience and availability, then match you to open roles. The agency handles the initial screening, so you may skip the phone interview step.

Pay through a staffing agency is typically lower than direct Cummins employment, and you do not receive benefits during the temporary period. However, if you convert to a permanent Cummins employee, your pay and benefits match what direct hires receive. Ask the agency about conversion policies before you accept a temporary assignment.

Pay, Benefits, and What to Expect on Your First Day

Pay varies by location, role, and experience. Manufacturing production workers typically start between $18 and $24 per hour, depending on the facility and local labor market. Skilled trades like welders or electricians start higher, often $22 to $28 per hour. Engineering and professional roles are salaried and vary widely based on education and experience.

Cummins offers health insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off, and tuition reimbursement for employees who want to continue their education. Benefits begin on your first day or after a waiting period, depending on the role. Manufacturing employees typically receive shift differentials if you work evenings or nights — an extra 50 cents to $1.50 per hour.

On your first day, arrive 15 minutes early with your ID and Social Security card. You will complete paperwork, receive safety training, and meet your supervisor. Manufacturing roles include a safety orientation and equipment training before you start production work. Most new hires work alongside an experienced employee for their first week to learn the job.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need experience to work at Cummins?

No. Many manufacturing and warehouse positions are open to people with no prior experience in that role. You need a high school diploma or GED, and you must pass a background check and drug screening. Cummins provides on-the-job training for most entry-level positions.

How long does the hiring process take?

From process to job offer typically takes three to six weeks. Phone screening happens within one to two weeks. The interview is scheduled within another week or two. Background checks and drug screening add one to two weeks. Staffing agencies often move faster — sometimes two to three weeks total.

What if I do not have a high school diploma?

Most Cummins positions require a high school diploma or GED. If you have a GED, you meet the requirement. If you do not have either, contact the facility directly to ask whether exceptions are made for roles that do not require a diploma. Some positions may be open to people with relevant work experience instead.

Can I transfer between Cummins locations?

Yes. After you have worked at Cummins for a certain period — usually six months to one year — you can explore for positions at other facilities. Internal transfers are often faster than external hiring because you have already passed background checks and proven yourself as an employee.

What is the difference between explore directly and using a staffing agency?

Direct applications go through Cummins' careers website and take longer but lead to permanent positions with full benefits from day one. Staffing agencies place you faster in temporary roles, but pay is lower and benefits are limited until you convert to permanent status. Choose based on whether you need work quickly or prefer a permanent position from the start.