Category Buyer

Career Area: Procurement Job 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. Caterpillar's Indirect Procurement organization is seeking a Category Buyer to support the sourcing and procurement of Material Handling Equipment Services within the United States. In this role, you will partner closely with internal business stakeholders and external suppliers to develop sourcing strategies, execute competitive sourcing events, negotiate contracts, and support supplier performance initiatives. You will have the opportunity to work across multiple Caterpillar business segments while helping drive value, supplier partnerships, and operational excellence. This is an excellent opportunity for an individual looking to grow their procurement career and gain exposure to enterprise-wide sourcing and category management activities.

Support sourcing and procurement activities for Material Handling Equipment Maintenance and related services categories. Execute competitive sourcing events, including RFIs, RFPs, RFQs, supplier evaluations, and bid analysis. Partner with internal stakeholders to understand business requirements and develop sourcing solutions that align with organizational objectives. Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and internal business partners. Participate in contract negotiations and support contract administration activities. Analyze supplier proposals and make recommendations based on business needs, risk, quality, and cost considerations. Support supplier performance reviews and continuous improvement initiatives. Develop and present recommendations, sourcing strategies, and project updates to stakeholders and leadership. Assist with identifying opportunities to improve processes, optimize supplier performance, and drive operational efficiencies. Support the execution of category strategies and sourcing initiatives across Caterpillar's business units. What You Have Procurement & Sourcing Experience supporting sourcing, procurement, supplier management, or category management activities. Experience executing sourcing events and working with suppliers through the negotiation process. Knowledge of contract management practices and supplier relationship management principles. Experience working with both internal and external stakeholders to identify requirements and achieve business objectives. Communication & Business Partnership Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills. Ability to communicate effectively with business partners, suppliers, and leadership. Comfortable presenting recommendations, project updates, and business cases to stakeholders. Ability to influence decisions and drive alignment across multiple groups. Analytical & Problem Solving Skills Ability to analyze supplier proposals, contract terms, and business requirements. Strong attention to detail and decision-making skills. Demonstrated problem-solving capabilities and initiative. What Will Put You Ahead Experience supporting indirect procurement categories . Previous experience with supplier negotiations and contract development. Experience supporting material handling equipment, facilities, services, logistics, or related categories. Demonstrated success driving cost savings or supplier performance improvements. Experience working in manufacturing, supply chain, operations, or procurement environments. Exposure to strategic sourcing or category management methodologies. Knowledge of procurement systems and tools.