Supply Chain Planning Analyst

Caterpillar Inc.•Decatur, IL

1d•$81,370 - $122,060•Onsite

About The Position

Caterpillar Inc. is seeking a highly motivated Supply Chain Planning Analyst to support Final Assembly operations. In this role, you will partner with manufacturing, logistics, engineering, and operations teams to develop and maintain supply chain planning processes across multiple value streams supporting some of Caterpillar's largest products. This position plays a critical role in establishing and maintaining Plans for Every Part (PFEP), supporting Bill of Material (BOM) accuracy, and developing material flow strategies that ensure materials are available when and where they are needed to support manufacturing operations and customer demand. You'll leverage analytical thinking, attention to detail, and a continuous improvement mindset to help optimize supply chain performance and support operational excellence. This is a unique opportunity to directly influence how materials are planned, presented, and delivered across Final Assembly operations supporting multiple large Caterpillar product lines. As part of a growing team, you will help shape PFEP strategies, optimize lineside material presentation, support BOM and kitting solutions, and drive continuous improvement initiatives that impact operational efficiency and manufacturing performance. Success in this role requires a combination of analytical thinking, creativity, and operational understanding, as supply chain planning is both a science and an art. The ideal candidate is a self-starter who enjoys solving complex problems, improving processes, and collaborating across functions to develop innovative material flow solutions.

Requirements

Ability to execute planning, sourcing, and supplier-related activities with a high degree of precision.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to data integrity.
Ability to analyze information, evaluate alternatives, and support informed business decisions.
Strong judgment and analytical reasoning skills.
Understanding of inbound and outbound material flow processes.
Knowledge of logistics considerations within a manufacturing environment.
Understanding of materials planning, capacity planning, and manufacturing requirements planning concepts.
Familiarity with bills of material, production requirements, and manufacturing cycles.
Ability to identify issues, evaluate alternatives, and support implementation of effective solutions.
Strong analytical and root-cause investigation skills.
Continuous improvement mindset with the ability to identify opportunities for greater efficiency and effectiveness.
Ability to support project objectives, timelines, deliverables, and implementation activities.
Understanding of supplier management principles, purchasing processes, supplier relationships, and sourcing activities.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience desired.
Experience in supply chain planning, manufacturing operations, materials planning, logistics, procurement, or industrial operations.
Knowledge of PFEP (Plan for Every Part) methodologies.
Experience managing or supporting Bill of Materials (BOMs).
Understanding of lineside delivery, point-of-use replenishment, material presentation, and kitting strategies.
Familiarity with ERP, SAP, MRP, or other manufacturing planning systems.
Experience supporting assembly operations or complex manufacturing environments.
Demonstrated ability to work independently as a self-starter while collaborating effectively across teams.
High personal accountability, integrity, and commitment to delivering quality results.

Responsibilities

Support supply chain planning activities across multiple Final Assembly value streams supporting large Caterpillar products.
Partner with master planners and cross-functional stakeholders to support outsourcing requirements and planning execution.
Develop, maintain, and improve Plans for Every Part (PFEP) to support efficient material flow and production requirements.
Analyze material consumption requirements and support effective material presentation strategies at point of use.
Ensure supply chain planning activities align with operational, manufacturing, and customer requirements.
Support Bill of Material (BOM) management activities and maintain planning-related product structure data.
Assist with kitting strategies for assembly operations where lineside space, ergonomics, or operational efficiency require alternative material delivery methods.
Configure and support kit requirements to ensure production teams receive the right materials in the right quantities at the right time.
Collaborate with manufacturing and logistics teams to optimize part presentation and material handling processes.
Support supplier selection activities and customer proposal efforts through pricing information and sourcing support.
Establish and maintain blanket purchase orders and support vendor-managed inventory (VMI) initiatives.
Assist with contract and purchase order generation activities.
Work with suppliers and internal stakeholders to support material availability and supply chain performance.
Identify and recommend improvements to supply chain processes, material flow, and planning methodologies.
Apply analytical thinking and problem-solving techniques to identify root causes and implement sustainable solutions.
Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, quality, safety, ergonomics, and operational performance.
Maintain and support supply chain application systems and planning tools.