Defense Program Manager

Career Area: Strategy 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. About Caterpillar Defense Caterpillar Defense proudly serves all branches of the U.S. military and federal government, allied militaries and governments, and original equipment manufacturers. For over 100 years, we have supplied reliable products and solutions to government agencies and military forces worldwide, supporting people who put their lives on the line to provide security, generate energy and supply humanitarian aid. Today, we continue to deliver leading-edge products and global services, working around the clock and around the world to deliver the power and performance that customers need. Caterpillar’s largest single customer is the U.S. Department of Defense.190,000+ machines, tanks, tactical vehicles, and submarines move missions forward with Cat engines. We also provide solutions for power generation and surface ships. Cat has powered crucial engineering and logistical operations in every major conflict since WWI Role Definition Caterpillar Defense is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Program Manager to lead the execution of defense programs. This role is responsible for overall program performance, including customer engagement, strategic planning, financial management, risk mitigation, and cross-functional team leadership. What You Will Do: Coordinating work across cross-functional project teams within the program, including internal staff and external contractors, to align priorities, track day-to-day progress, and keep deliverables on schedule. Applying hands-on experience with Project Management tools and processes to facilitate projects, run chartering sessions, develop / validate network diagrams, and drive integration and compression sessions. Tracking, reporting on, and helping deliver the program's project management goals and milestones. Partnering with clients to apply a disciplined project management approach and helping them understand their project-related roles and responsibilities. Degree Requirement Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience desired, with 3–5 years of relevant experience leading programs, projects, or cross-functional initiatives preferred. What You Will Have: Experience supporting U.S. defense programs. Decision Making and Critical Thinking: Working knowledge of the decision-making process and associated tools and techniques; ability to accurately analyze situations and reach productive decisions based on informed judgment. Influencing: Working knowledge of effective influencing tactics and strategies; ability to impact decisions within and outside own organization. Managing Multiple Priorities: Working knowledge of effective self-management practices; ability to manage multiple concurrent objectives, projects, groups, or activities, making effective judgments as to prioritizing and time allocation. Cross-Team Integration: Working understanding of the importance of inter-team collaboration in breaking down silos and achieving business results; ability to lead employees from various functions to communicate, coordinate work across divisions, and collaborate in solving problems as one team. Planning and Organizing: Extensive knowledge of the process of planning and arranging tasks and resources; ability to plan and organize both time and resources to get things completed while structuring and maintaining work in a systematic and highly methodical way. What Sets You Apart: Experience supporting U.S. Navy acquisition programs, including shipbuilding, sustainment, modernization, or related defense programs. Additional Information: This position is in Peoria, IL. Domestic travel up to 20% Domestic relocation assistance is not offered for this position This job is subject to Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information (NNPI) which prohibits the release of technology and technical data to non-U.S. citizens.). By applying to this position, you acknowledge that you are a U.S. citizen; not hold dual citizenship with another county; and are willing to present evidence of your U.S. citizenship. 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. Summary Pay Range: $112,710.00 - $169,060.00 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 plans* Health Savings Account (HSA)* Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)* Health Lifestyle Programs* Employee Assistance Program* Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts* Career Development* Incentive bonus* Disability benefits Life Insurance Parental leave Adoption benefits Tuition Reimbursement * These benefits also apply to part-time employees This position requires working onsite five days a week. Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position. Posting Dates: November 13, 2026 - November 20, 2026 Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen. Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply. Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community .