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.

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.

leader to update the specific information for this job role.

What You Will Do:

• Lead sourcing and procurement activities for Air Systems commodities, including turbochargers and related components.
• Develop and execute category strategies to achieve cost, quality, delivery, and supply continuity objectives.
• Manage supplier relationships and drive supplier performance improvements.
• Lead commercial negotiations, contract management, and cost reduction initiatives.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, and Logistics teams to support NPI and business needs.
• Monitor market trends, supplier capabilities, and supply chain risks to ensure a resilient supply base.
• Resolve supplier-related quality, delivery, and capacity issues while ensuring compliance with company policies.

What Skills You Will Have:

• Strategic Sourcing & Category Management
• Supplier Relationship Management
• Negotiation & Contract Management
• Cost Analysis & Cost Reduction
• Supply Chain Risk Management
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Project Management
• Data Analysis & Problem Solving
• Supplier Development
• Communication & Influencing Skills
• Business Acumen

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field.
• Proven experience in supplier relationship management and commercial negotiations.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Experience working in a cross-functional manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with ERP systems (such as SAP) and Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in both English and Chinese.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Results-oriented with the ability to drive execution in a fast-paced environment.

Desired Qualifications:

• Strong ownership and accountability with a proactive approach to problem solving.
• Resilience and perseverance when navigating supply chain challenges, negotiations, and changing business priorities.
• Ability to influence and collaborate effectively across global and cross-functional teams.
• High integrity and strong ethical standards.
• Results-oriented mindset with a continuous improvement focus.
• Adaptability and the ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Growth mindset with a passion for learning new technologies, industry trends, and business models while continuously developing professional capabilities.
• Strong business acumen and strategic thinking skills.
• Experience sourcing engine components, air systems, turbochargers, powertrain components, or precision-machined parts.
• Knowledge of turbocharger technologies, air management systems, and related manufacturing processes.
• Experience managing suppliers across China and the Asia-Pacific region.
• Strong understanding of cost modeling, Value Analysis/Value Engineering (VA/VE), and cost optimization methodologies.
• Experience leading supplier performance improvement and supplier development initiatives.
• Professional certifications such as CPSM, CPIM, CSCP, or equivalent.
• Experience supporting sourcing activities for New Product Introduction (NPI) programs.
• Familiarity with APQP, PPAP, and supplier quality management systems.
• Experience working in a multinational or global procurement environment.

Additional Information:

• Travel request 20%-40%.
• This role works closely with global stakeholders across multiple time zones. Flexibility to participate in evening meetings may be required to support business needs.

 

Posting Dates:

七月 31, 2026 - 八月 14, 2026

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply

Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.