Public Affairs Manager

Job Description
When you join Caterpillar, you become part of a global team that cares not only about the work we do but also about each other. We are builders of stronger, more sustainable communities. We don’t just talk about progress and innovation – we make it happen with our customers and in the places we work and live, building a better world for everyone.

Career Area
Communications

Job Summary
We are seeking a public affairs professional with strong writing and strategic communications skills to position Caterpillar’s innovation story across earned and paid media, thought leadership, executive platforms and external recognition. This role will focus on shaping and amplifying narratives that demonstrate how Caterpillar is solving its customers’ toughest challenges—through customer‑driven innovation, strong intellectual property and our talented people.

The position goes beyond traditional media relations and will partner closely with engineering, technology, HR, legal, segment and communications stakeholders and our government affairs team. It will be part of the Enterprise Media team and is open to candidates in Irving or Peoria.

Key Job Responsibilities

Develop a public affairs plan aligned to our corporate narrative that positions Caterpillar’s advanced technology story to key stakeholder audiences.

Create content focused on innovation and advanced technology leadership, including op‑eds, contributed articles and materials for owned channels such as web and social.

Identify and develop opportunities and stories that highlight Caterpillar’s intellectual property, patents and innovation pipeline, and the people behind them.

In partnership with legal and engineering teams, lead development of innovation‑focused awards submissions—researching opportunities, drafting submissions and securing approvals.

Identify speaking and thought‑leadership opportunities, developing talking points, briefing materials and messaging for executives and subject‑matter leaders.

Identify and engage with media, influencers and stakeholders to amplify Caterpillar’s innovation stories.

Draft proactive and reactive statements and supporting materials as needed.

Serve as a general media contact for a variety of Caterpillar‑related stories and issues, including supporting events and media engagements.

Collaborate with the enterprise media team to ensure innovation narratives are integrated into broader media and communications efforts.

Measure and present Caterpillar’s results, as well as those of our competitors.

Basic Qualifications

Proven, exceptional writing and editing skills; ability to produce clear, compelling, executive‑level content.

Experience in communications, public relations, corporate affairs, journalism or a related discipline.

Ability to simplify complex or technical topics into clear, audience‑appropriate messaging.

Strong collaboration skills and comfort working across functions and with senior leaders.

Sound judgment and discretion, with the ability to operate effectively in sensitive or high‑visibility situations.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience developing integrated public affairs and media strategies across paid, earned and owned channels.

Ability to distill complex topics into easily understandable narratives across formats (op‑eds, bylined articles, advertorials, speeches and media statements).

Experience in crisis communications or issues management; proven ability to remain composed and deliver clear communications under pressure.

Ability to navigate a complex, matrixed organization.

Familiarity with content strategy.

Summary Pay Range
$147,760.00 - $221,640.00

Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job‑related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.

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.

Relocation is available for this position.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

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.

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