Category Buyer II

Caterpillar•East Peoria, IL

11d•Onsite

About The Position

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. As a Category Buyer, you will provide supply network solutions expertise using Quality, Cost, Logistics, Development, and Management (QCLDM) principles to deliver maximum value to the business. In this role, you will develop and execute sourcing strategies, manage supplier relationships, drive cost and quality improvements, and support procurement initiatives that ensure a reliable and efficient supply network.

Requirements

Degree or equivalent experience desired.
Extensive experience analyzing, interpreting, and modeling data to support business decisions, identify trends, evaluate performance, and assess risks and opportunities.
Working knowledge of supplier relationship management principles, strategic sourcing processes, procurement activities, and supplier performance management.
Experience supporting contract management activities and participating in supplier negotiations while ensuring compliance with organizational policies and procedures.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across functions, build relationships, present information effectively, and adapt communication styles to diverse audiences.
Ability to create a network within Indirect Procurement.

Nice To Haves

Experience developing and executing category management strategies.
Background in procurement, sourcing, supply chain, purchasing, or supplier management environments.
Experience using procurement and supply chain management systems and analytical tools.
Demonstrated success identifying cost savings, inventory reduction opportunities, and process improvements.
Experience managing supplier performance metrics and leading supplier development initiatives.
Knowledge of QCLDM principles and their application within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
Ability to leverage predictive analytics and data-driven insights to support sourcing and business decisions.
Experience using AI in your daily work tasks.

Responsibilities

Develop, manage, and execute category strategies, including sourcing policies, supplier agreements, source catalogs, and special procurement programs.
Identify opportunities for cost reduction, inventory optimization, and quality improvements while assessing business risks and proposals.
Serve as a key liaison between the organization and suppliers, ensuring clear communication while balancing production requirements and supplier capabilities.
Monitor and document supplier performance related to quality, delivery, responsiveness, and production requirements.
Build and maintain strong supplier relationships to support business objectives and operational continuity.
Analyze and interpret data to identify trends, risks, opportunities, and support strategic sourcing decisions.
Participate in contract administration activities, ensuring compliance with procurement policies, regulations, and contractual requirements.
Support purchasing and strategic sourcing activities through market research, spend analysis, and supplier evaluations.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement within sourcing and procurement processes.