Category Buyer - Maintenance

Vallourec North America•Houston, TX

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The Category Buyer supports South Region Vallourec facilities by strategically sourcing repairs (on-site and off-site), spare parts, calibration services, equipment leases, facility management, and working clothes. This role ensures both immediate operational needs and long-term business requirements are met. You will drive optimal sourcing outcomes across cost, quality, delivery, and service performance—while operating under the most favorable economic conditions and in full alignment with Company and Corporate Purchasing policies and procedures.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in STEM or Business (or 10+ years of relevant experience in lieu of degree)
3–5 years of sourcing or purchasing experience in a corporate environment
Strong knowledge of strategic sourcing, negotiations, contract management, and supplier performance management
Experience sourcing industrial services/materials (repairs, spare parts, calibration preferred)
Proficiency with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and Microsoft Office tools
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a matrixed environment
Proven ability to influence stakeholders without direct authority
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
Effective communication and reporting skills
Commitment to compliance, ethics, and continuous improvement

Nice To Haves

Communicate clearly and effectively
Collaborate and contribute to team success
Adapt quickly with a proactive mindset
Take accountability and initiative
Demonstrate reliability and attention to detail
Prioritize safety in every action
Embrace feedback and continuous learning
Drive improvement and challenge the status quo

Responsibilities

Lead supplier selection, supplier awards, competitive pricing analysis, and commercial negotiations aligned to sourcing strategies and business priorities
Develop and execute negotiation strategies to secure optimal commercial terms
Prepare, analyze, and evaluate RFQs and commercial offers; provide clear sourcing recommendations
Challenge business demand by validating requirements, specifications, and volumes to optimize spend and scope
Drive productivity initiatives and value-driven sourcing decisions
Develop, implement, and maintain commodity strategies with cross-functional stakeholders
Lead sourcing initiatives to deliver cost savings, mitigate risks, and enhance competitiveness
Consolidate regional and North American demand to leverage economies of scale
Perform cost analysis (including make-or-buy decisions) and recommend value improvements
Manage supplier lifecycle: market analysis, qualification, performance management, and continuous improvement
Monitor market trends to identify risks, opportunities, and innovation
Manage contracts end-to-end (drafting, negotiation, execution, compliance)
Maintain strong internal and external stakeholder relationships
Represent sourcing on cross-functional projects and initiatives
Ensure full compliance with EHS standards, ethical sourcing, and company policies
Perform additional duties as assigned