Category Buyer

Caterpillar Inc.•Mossville, IL

4d•$112,710 - $169,060

About The Position

Caterpillar is seeking a Category Buyer for Power & Energy Procurement to own sourcing for connectors and semiconductors. The role applies supply network expertise and Quality, Cost, Logistics, Development, and Management (QCLDM) principles to deliver value. Power & Energy Procurement supports Caterpillar divisions through predictable supply, optimized total cost of ownership, supplier relationship management, and lifecycle sourcing strategy, using data-driven decisions and operationally efficient processes. The Category Buyer develops and executes category strategy, manages procurement policies, agreements, source catalogs, and special procurement programs, and identifies opportunities to reduce costs and inventory and improve quality. The position evaluates business proposals and risks, serves as a liaison between the organization and suppliers, and considers production demands and supplier conditions. It tracks supplier performance and maintains supplier relationships. Because this is an enterprise category, the buyer must also influence effectively across organizational verticals. The primary locations are Mossville, Illinois, or Irving, Texas. Relocation assistance and visa sponsorship are not available. A degree or equivalent experience is desired. Prior electrical and electronics experience is preferred but not required.

Requirements

Extensive experience in data analytics, including assessing data quality and analytical methods, interpreting predictive-model risks and opportunities, and supporting decision-making with business data.
Extensive experience in effective communications, including adapting presentations and documents to audiences, communicating across organizational levels, and using appropriate persuasion.
Working knowledge of interpersonal relationships, including collaboration and adapting interaction style to different people and situations.
Extensive experience in negotiation, including completing significant internal and external negotiations and working constructively toward mutually beneficial outcomes.
Working knowledge of purchasing tasks and activities, procurement systems, compliance, and purchasing processes.
Working knowledge of strategic sourcing methods and processes, including data analysis, market research, purchasing budgets, and sourcing-process improvement.
A degree or equivalent experience is desired.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in electrical and electronics; preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Develop, manage, and execute category strategy, including management of policies, agreements, source catalogs, and special procurement programs.
Identify opportunities for cost decreases, inventory reductions, and quality improvement.
Ensure the soundness of business proposals and assess risks.
Act as a liaison between the organization and suppliers, clearly communicating information while considering production demands and supplier conditions.
Document supplier performance relating to timeliness and production, and maintain strong supplier relationships.
Manage expectations across organizational verticals and influence stakeholders across the enterprise.