Category Buyer

Caterpillar Inc.•Peoria, IL

3d•$112,710 - $169,060•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. Provides supply network solutions expertise, using Quality, Cost, Logistics, Development, and Management (QCLDM) to deliver maximum value.

Requirements

Data Analytics Applies advanced data analysis techniques to uncover insights, evaluate data quality, and guide decision‑making, while advising others on trends, risks, and predictive modeling.
Effective Communications Communicates clearly and persuasively across audiences, adapting messages, providing feedback, and balancing empathy with assertiveness.
Interpersonal Relationships Builds constructive working relationships by understanding different perspectives, clarifying roles, and adapting interactions to individuals and situations.
Negotiating Leads complex negotiations by identifying interests, assessing risks, and driving win‑win outcomes while resolving obstacles and maintaining progress.
Contracts Management & Administration Supports contract creation and compliance by applying organizational processes, reviewing documentation, and managing contract information effectively.
Purchasing Tasks & Activities Executes core procurement activities by using purchasing systems, maintaining documentation, and ensuring compliance with processes and regulations.
Supplier Relationship Management Strengthens supplier partnerships by guiding SRM practices, coaching others, resolving challenges, and evaluating supplier impact on business performance.
Strategic Sourcing Contributes to sourcing strategies through data analysis, market research, and process improvement while supporting senior sourcing professionals.
Degree or equivalent experience desired

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of steel products.
Experience with suppliers of Fabrications.
Procurement experience as a category buyer.
Supply chain / logistics experience.

Responsibilities

Developing, managing and executing the category strategy managing policies, agreements, source catalogs, and special procurement programs.
Recognizing the potential for cost decreases, inventory reductions and quality improvement, as well as responsibility for soundness of business proposals and risk assessment.
Acting as the liaison between the organization and the supplier to communicate information explicitly, while considering production demands and suppliers' conditions.
Documenting the suppliers' performance on time sensitiveness and production; maintains a strong relationship with suppliers.