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.

Provides supply network solutions expertise, using Quality, Cost, Logistics, Development, and Management (QCLDM) to deliver maximum value.

What You Will Do

• 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.

Education Requirement

Degree or equivalent experience desired

What You Will Have Data Analytics

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

Effective Communications

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

Interpersonal Relationships

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

Negotiating

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

Contracts Management & Administration

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

Purchasing Tasks & Activities

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

Supplier Relationship Management

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

Strategic Sourcing

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

Top Candidates Will Also Have

• Knowledge of steel products.
• Experience with suppliers of Fabrications.
• Procurement experience as a category buyer.
• Supply chain / logistics experience.

Additional Details

• This position is based in Peoria, IL and requires on‑site attendance five days per week.
• Relocation assistance is not available.
• Visa sponsorship is not offered for this role.
• This position requires less than 20% travel.

Summary Pay Range

$ - $

Compensation 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

• 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

January 5, 2026 - January 19, 2026

Any 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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