Category Buyer at Caterpillar Inc.

Mossville, Illinois, United States

Caterpillar Inc. Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
Mid-level (3 to 4 years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Procurement, ManufacturingIndustries

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Business or other related field
  • Proficiency (Working Knowledge) in Enterprise Systems & Analytical Tools: Familiar with enterprise platforms such as Salesforce, SAP, and Lognet. Strong skills in Excel and PowerPoint for reporting and presentations
  • Proficiency (Extensive Experience) in Data Analytics: Applies techniques for inspecting, cleansing, transforming, and modeling data. Draws logical conclusions and supports decision-making through data insights. Advises stakeholders on the relationship between financial, performance, and operational data. Evaluates data quality and analysis methods for business performance. Interprets risks, threats, and opportunities in predictive modeling
  • Proficiency (Extensive Experience) in Effective Communication: Understands and applies effective communication strategies across all levels. Tailors documents and presentations to the audience. Balances empathy and assertiveness in communication. Communicates effectively in all directions—upward, downward, and outward. Uses persuasive techniques to gain alignment
  • Proficiency (Working Knowledge) in Interpersonal Relationships: Collaborates constructively with diverse individuals and groups. Explains the impact of interpersonal interactions. Understands and respects alternative viewpoints. Adapts communication style to different people and situations
  • Proficiency (Extensive Experience) in Negotiation: Skilled in internal and external negotiations. Completes significant negotiations successfully. Assesses risks of negotiation breakdowns from all perspectives. Balances protecting own position with achieving win-win outcomes. Identifies and evaluates differences in negotiation positions
  • Proficiency (Working Knowledge) in Contracts Management & Administration: Manages and administers contracts in accordance with policies and procedures. Administers department-level contracts. Follows organizational protocols for contract management. Explains required pre-signature contract information. Assists in maintaining vendor and contract documentation
  • Proficiency (Working Knowledge) in Purchasing Tasks & Activities: Executes procurement processes in compliance with regulations. Documents purchasing activities (e.g., orders, bids). Utilizes procurement systems and tools. Ensures adherence to procurement policies and contract terms
  • Proficiency (Extensive Experience) in Supplier Relationship Management: Builds and maintains strong supplier partnerships. Advises on supplier relations

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
  • Own supplier relationship and performance management
  • Provides supply network solutions expertise, using Quality, Cost, Logistics, Development, and Management (QCLDM) to deliver maximum value

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

ExcelPowerPointSalesforceSAPLognetData AnalyticsQCLDMSupplier ManagementProcurement StrategyRisk Assessment

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What education is required for the Category Buyer position?

A Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Business or other related field is required.

What are the key skills needed for this role?

The role requires proficiency in Enterprise Systems & Analytical Tools (Salesforce, SAP, Lognet, Excel, PowerPoint), extensive experience in Data Analytics, Effective Communication, Negotiation, and working knowledge of Interpersonal Relationships.

What does the company culture at Caterpillar emphasize?

Caterpillar emphasizes a global team that cares about each other, innovation, problem-solving, and building stronger, more sustainable communities together.

Is this a remote position or does it require office work?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What is the salary or compensation for this role?

This information is not specified in the job description.

Caterpillar Inc.

Manufactures heavy machinery for various industries

About Caterpillar Inc.

Caterpillar Inc. designs and manufactures heavy machinery and equipment for industries such as construction, mining, energy, and rail. Their products include a wide range of machinery and engines that help clients complete large-scale projects. Caterpillar's equipment works by providing powerful tools that can perform tasks like digging, lifting, and transporting materials. What sets Caterpillar apart from its competitors is its strong aftermarket support, which includes maintenance and repair services, ensuring that their machinery remains efficient and reliable over time. The company's goal is to deliver high-quality products while also focusing on sustainability and community development through initiatives that improve education and reduce poverty.

Irving, TexasHeadquarters
1925Year Founded
$143.5KTotal Funding
IPOCompany Stage
Industrial & Manufacturing, Social Impact, AI & Machine LearningIndustries
10,001+Employees

Benefits

Annual incentive bonus plan
Medical, dental, and vision coverage
Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holiday, Volunteer, Etc.)
401k savings plan
Health savings account (HSA)
Flexible spending accounts (FSAs)
Disability benefits
Life Insurance
Parental leave
Healthy Lifestyle Programs
Employee Assistance Programs
Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts
Tuition Reimbursement
Career Development

Risks

Closure of Aurora office may impact regional economy and Caterpillar's reputation.
Partnership with Anti Social Social Club could dilute Caterpillar's industrial brand focus.
Advanced technology in Cat D8 dozer may face resistance from traditional customers.

Differentiation

Caterpillar's century-long history underscores its reliability and industry leadership.
The company integrates AI and IoT to enhance machinery performance and customer satisfaction.
Caterpillar's strong aftermarket services ensure product longevity and operational efficiency.

Upsides

Growing demand for autonomous equipment boosts Caterpillar's innovation in heavy machinery.
Expansion of 5G networks enhances Caterpillar's remote operation capabilities, improving safety.
Caterpillar's commitment to sustainability aligns with the global shift towards eco-friendly practices.

Land your dream remote job 3x faster with AI