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.

What You Will Do:

• Lead sourcing and procurement activities for engine component
• 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, commercial negotiations, and working in a cross-functional manufacturing environment.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and drive results.
• Proficiency with ERP systems (e.g., SAP) and Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in both English and Chinese.
• Strong ownership, accountability, and ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Desired Qualifications:

 

• Experience sourcing engine components, with knowledge of relevant manufacturing processes.
• Experience managing and developing suppliers across China and the Asia-Pacific region, including supplier performance improvement initiatives.
• Strong understanding of cost modeling, VA/VE, and cost optimization methodologies.
• Experience supporting NPI sourcing programs and familiarity with APQP, PPAP, and supplier quality management systems.
• Experience working in a multinational or global procurement environment, with strong business acumen and the ability to influence cross-functional and global stakeholders.
• Proactive, adaptable, and resilient, with high integrity, a continuous improvement mindset, and a strong willingness to learn.
• Professional certifications such as CPSM, CPIM, CSCP, or equivalent are preferred.

Additional Information:

Travel request 20%-40%

This position requires working onsite five days a week.

 

Posting Dates:

November 9, 2026 - December 31, 2026

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

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