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Caterpillar Inc. · 4 days ago

Category Buyer

Peoria, IL

Full-time

Onsite

Mid Level

$113K/yr - $169K/yr

Caterpillar Inc. is a global team dedicated to building stronger and sustainable communities. The Category Buyer will develop and manage category strategies, act as a liaison between the organization and suppliers, and document supplier performance to ensure maximum value in procurement activities.

ConstructionMachinery ManufacturingManufacturingMechanical Engineering

No H1B

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

Qualification

Data AnalyticsContracts ManagementSupplier Relationship ManagementNegotiatingStrategic SourcingPurchasing TasksInterpersonal RelationshipsSteel productsFabricationsProcurement experienceSupply chain experienceEffective Communications

Required

Degree or equivalent experience desired

Applies advanced data analysis techniques to uncover insights, evaluate data quality, and guide decision‑making, while advising others on trends, risks, and predictive modeling

Communicates clearly and persuasively across audiences, adapting messages, providing feedback, and balancing empathy with assertiveness

Builds constructive working relationships by understanding different perspectives, clarifying roles, and adapting interactions to individuals and situations

Leads complex negotiations by identifying interests, assessing risks, and driving win‑win outcomes while resolving obstacles and maintaining progress

Supports contract creation and compliance by applying organizational processes, reviewing documentation, and managing contract information effectively

Executes core procurement activities by using purchasing systems, maintaining documentation, and ensuring compliance with processes and regulations

Strengthens supplier partnerships by guiding SRM practices, coaching others, resolving challenges, and evaluating supplier impact on business performance

Contributes to sourcing strategies through data analysis, market research, and process improvement while supporting senior sourcing professionals