Category Buyer
Caterpillar
Career Area:
ProcurementJob Description:
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 to Caterpillar’s Hydraulics supply base within the Resources Industries Segment. Manage supplier relationships, collaborate with business partners, and deliver business strategies. Maximized benefits are generated using Quality, Cost, Logistics, Development, and Management (QCLDM) techniques.
What You Will Do:
• Developing, managing and executing the Hydraulics 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.
Education Requirement:
Degree or equivalent experience desired
What You Will Have:
Data Analytics
- Analyze and interpret data to identify trends, correlations, and risks for informed decision-making.
- Ensure data quality and guide stakeholders on integrating analytics into business processes.
- Lead data collection strategies and mentor team members on new sources and methods.
Effective Communication
- Deliver clear, constructive feedback and adapt communication to audience needs.
- Present ideas effectively in writing and verbally, avoiding unnecessary jargon.
- Actively listen and interpret verbal and non-verbal cues for better understanding.
Interpersonal Relationships
- Build collaborative relationships by adapting interaction styles to individuals and situations.
- Clarify roles and responsibilities while respecting diverse perspectives.
- Foster teamwork across departments and management levels.
Negotiating
- Use active listening and problem-solving to achieve win-win outcomes.
- Focus on issues, not personalities, and present positions constructively.
- Remain flexible and open to alternative solutions during negotiations.
Contracts Management
- Review and administer contracts to ensure compliance with standards and regulations.
- Implement organizational protocols and maintain accurate vendor and contract records.
- Explain required information and processes before contract execution.
Purchasing
- Execute procurement tasks using established systems and ensure compliance with regulations.
- Maintain accurate documentation of purchasing activities and bidding processes.
- Follow organizational procedures throughout the procurement cycle.
Supplier Relationship Management
- Communicate effectively with suppliers to resolve issues and maintain strong partnerships.
- Monitor supplier satisfaction and adherence to organizational policies.
- Analyze and document challenges to improve relationship management practices.
Strategic Sourcing
- Support sourcing activities through data analysis, market research, and budget review.
- Identify opportunities to improve procurement processes and assist senior professionals.
- Apply organizational standards and policies in sourcing practices.
Top Candidates Will Also Have:
- Hydraulics component and system experience
- Procurement experience as category buyer
- Supply chain / logistics experience
Additional Details:
Location: Mossville, Il
Relocation: Not available
Sponsorship: Not offered
Travel: Less than 10%
Work Arrangement: On-site, 5 days a week
Summary Pay Range:
$95,640.00 - $143,520.00Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
401(k) savings plans*
Health Savings Account (HSA)*
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
Health Lifestyle Programs*
Employee Assistance Program*
Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
Career Development*
Incentive bonus*
Disability benefits
Life Insurance
Parental leave
Adoption benefits
Tuition Reimbursement
* These benefits also apply to part-time employees
Posting Dates:
November 11, 2025 - November 18, 2025Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
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